What to do After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver
Any type of car accident is devastating. Accidents caused by drunk driving are even more so. Drunk drivers tend to speed, ignore traffic signals and weave in and out of traffic — all behaviors that can cause an unexpected and severe crash. According to the Centers for Disease Control, drunk-driving deaths account for 31% of all traffic-related deaths in 2014. In that same year, over one million drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. And that’s only the people who got caught — imagine the number of people driving drunk on any given day.
If you were involved in a traffic accident and you think the other driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, take these steps to protect your safety and your rights.
Call the Police.
It’s always a good idea to call the police when you’re involved in a car accident. The police will fill out a report, which is a great thing to have on your side if you decide to pursue a lawsuit against the other driver. If you suspect a drunk driver, getting the police involved is even more crucial. Since drunk driving is a crime, the suspected offender will likely be arrested. At the very least, this arrest takes them away from their car and the ability to injure any other people or property while driving intoxicated.
Get Medical Help.
Yes, even if you feel fine! Some injuries, especially neck and back injuries, don’t always show up right away. Additionally, your body’s adrenaline may prevent you from feeling a lot of the bumps and bruises that will likely show up a few days later. It’s always a smart idea to document your injuries in the event you need that information for any legal action you may take in the future.
Call an Attorney.
Once you receive the drunk driver’s insurance information, it’s recommended to get an attorney involved. Insurance companies are in it for the money, make no mistake about it. Therefore, they may offer you a settlement to placate you — but it may not be nearly what you should get for your pain, suffering and damages. An attorney can help you determine if a settlement offer is a good one or an attorney can advise you on next steps. Each case is unique, and a good rule of thumb is to consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement offers.
In fact, the personal injury attorneys at The May Firm work on a contingency basis. That means that you don’t pay us until you receive your settlement or damages from litigation. Contact us today at 1-844-MAYFIRM to learn more about your options when you’ve been involved in a traffic accident with a drunk driver.
