According to the New York State Police, drunk drivers cause more than 17,000 deaths annually. This equates to 310 funerals each week or one death every 30 minutes! Getting involved in any type of car accident is a traumatic experience, but it becomes even more devastating when the accident is caused by a drunk driver. In addition to the physical and emotional trauma, victims of such incidents often find themselves facing a long and challenging road to recovery.
Well, it is essential to know how to protect your health and your rights if you have been hit by a drunk driver and we are here to help!
Let’s delve into the steps you should take to ensure your well-being and seek justice:
Prioritize Your Health and Safety
Your well-being is the most crucial aspect after a car accident. Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries like whiplash or internal trauma, might not be immediately apparent but could worsen over time if left untreated.
It is vital that you follow medical advice and fully comply with your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation. This will aid in your recovery and provide crucial documentation for potential legal proceedings. It is also important for you to maintain detailed records of your injuries, medical bills, and treatment.
Remember, this documentation will be quite invaluable when you pursue compensation and any other legal recourse.
Contact Law Enforcement
It is important to report the accident and request immediate assistance. The police will investigate the scene and gather evidence. It is advisable to call the police to the accident scene, even if the drunk driver attempts to flee. This report is essential when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
Fully cooperate with Law enforcement by providing an accurate account of the accident and follow any instructions given by the officers. This will help build a strong case against the drunk driver.
Gather Enough Evidence
The next crucial step is gathering and preserving evidence. If it is safe to do so, gather evidence from the accident scene. Take photos and videos, document the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. These visual records can be essential in court.
Remember to also collect witness information. Obtain contact information from any witnesses who can corroborate the events leading up to the accident. Additionally, request a copy of the police report. This official document will contain critical information about the incident and the drunk driver’s actions. Do not forget to make a note of the responding police officer’s name and badge number.
Seek Legal Representation
To protect your rights and ensure you receive proper compensation, consider hiring a personal injury attorney near you with experience in drunk driving accidents and DUI cases. Find a New York drunk driving accident lawyer who can assist you in handling the case and fight for your rights. A good lawyer will guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, evaluate your situation, and guide you on the best course of action for your situation.
If necessary, your attorney can help you file a personal injury lawsuit against the drunk driver to seek compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages. But if you find yourself on the other side of the situation, accused of a DUI, it’s equally important to seek out a dui defense attorney who can help ensure your rights are protected and you have the best possible defense.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Report the accident and provide your insurer with accurate information about the accident and any injuries sustained. Your insurance policy may cover medical expenses and property damage.
Follow the Claims Process by cooperating with your insurance company’s claim process, but be cautious about giving statements to the other driver’s insurer without legal counsel. Your attorney can assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you are not taken advantage of.
Stay Informed and Involved in Legal Proceedings
Stay informed about the progress of your case. Regularly communicate with your attorney and attend all scheduled legal proceedings. Be an active participant in your case, providing any additional information or documentation requested promptly. Your involvement can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.
Attend Support Therapy
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, especially one involving a drunk driver, can be emotionally challenging. Consider attending therapy or support groups to help you cope with the trauma. Well, emotional well-being is essential for the healing process, and talking to professionals or others who have experienced similar situations can provide invaluable support.
