If a drunk driver causes an accident and injures you, they may not just face criminal punishments such as jail time and fines. They also could be found negligent in a personal injury lawsuit for your injuries.
If you think you have been hit by a drunk driver and were injured, it is important to take aggressive actions immediately after the crash. How you behave in the hours after the accident will directly affect your ability to be compensated for your injuries.
I Was Hit By a Drunk Driver. Can I Sue?
Yes. You can file a personal injury lawsuit if you have been injured by a drunk driver. You and your attorney will need to prove that the drunk driver was negligent and caused your injuries. It also must be proven that you suffered injuries from the drunk driving crash.
After you are hit by a drunk driver, make sure you follow these steps:
- Call Law Enforcement Immediately
As soon as you are in an accident with a drunk driver, call law enforcement. By calling the police right away, you are ensured that the drunk driving crash will be completely documented. This is vital when it comes time to file a personal injury lawsuit or insurance claim. If you do not call law enforcement, you will lose the crucial police report evidence that will virtually ensure a successful claim or lawsuit.
- Cooperate With Law Enforcement
The police officer who responds to the scene will want a lot of precise information from you. He will want to know how the crash happened, who was involved, how fast you were going, and so on. You need to provide the most accurate details of the crash as soon as possible, when your memory is fresh.
But make sure you do not exaggerate anything. Just provide law enforcement with the facts of the case.
If the police ask if you are hurt, never say no. Tell them you are not sure, as injuries often present later.
- Gather Crash Scene Information
If you are physically able, gather as much crash scene information from the scene as you can. Obtain the at-fault driver’s contact details, witness statements and pictures of the accident scene. Also take pictures of your injuries.
- Go to the ER
After the police have made their report, you should go to the hospital or ER for medical attention. This step is important even if you think you are not hurt. Never refuse medical treatment after a car accident, especially if a drunk driver caused the crash. You may not feel any pain for hours or days after the crash. If you failed to get medical treatment immediately, the defense will argue that your injuries were caused by something other than the crash.
- Call an Experienced Drunk Driver Accident Lawyer
Do not even think about talking to an insurance company adjuster before you hire an experienced personal injury attorney in DUI cases. If you were hit by a drunk driver, you have been grievously wronged. You deserve as much compensation as possible for your injuries and pain and suffering. Your attorney will ensure that this happens.
Contact our experienced attorneys today for a legal consultation to determine whether you have a solid case. Remember, you don’t pay anything unless we settle or win the case for you.