Key Steps You Should Take After a Drunk Driving Accident in 2024
Experiencing a car accident is always a terrifying event, but it can take a whole new level of trauma when the other driver seems to be impaired. Unfortunately, drunk driving is a common issue. The fact that these accidents are entirely preventable is one of the worst parts.
When a drunk driver causes an accident, it’s crucial to take the appropriate steps to hold them accountable and obtain the compensation they are due.
Stop Your Vehicle
Your priority should be to get your vehicle out of the line of incoming vehicles. The legislation requires drivers to come to a full stop at the scene of every incident, no matter how minor. Individuals who do not follow this procedure may face legal consequences. Furthermore, abandoning the scene may jeopardize your prospects of receiving the full compensation to which you are legally entitled.
Seek Medical Attention
You should get medical assistance as quickly as possible, even if you believe the injuries you experienced are minor. A medical specialist may detect any hidden injuries that you might be unaware of, enabling you to begin treatment as soon as feasible. Furthermore, it is advisable to consult a medical professional as soon as possible after an accident to establish a causal link between the accident and any injuries you may have incurred. Always save all of your medical paperwork as proof of your injuries and charges.
Call the Police
If someone has been hurt, your priority should be to check for injuries and contact emergency services. Even if the event seems minor, it is always advisable to contact the authorities and file an accident report. If you have reason to think that the other motorist has been under the influence of alcohol or drugs, notify the authorities immediately because they may conduct sobriety tests and record the other driver’s condition. If the other driver begs you to “settle this ourselves” and not call the police, do not give in to their honest demands since they may be attempting to escape being detected and jailed.
Exchange Information with Witnesses
According to aaronblacklaw.com, “To strengthen your claim in the future with the help of a professional DUI Attorney in Phoenix AZ, you will need as much proof as possible, including eyewitness testimony. You should speak with any witnesses and ask them if they would be willing to give you a statement about what they observed.”
Make sure to write down their full names as well as their entire contact information.” Because the police may not do the same when they come, it is in your best interest to get the contact information for the witnesses on your own.
Take Pictures of the Scene
As time passes, our memories fade, making it increasingly difficult to give proof for what we observed. The most crucial thing we can do is photograph and video the automobiles, the location, the injuries, the witnesses, and, if possible, the scene of the incident. These photographs might help prove the driving conditions that existed at the time of the accident. If you find yourself in a situation where you are unable to take images because you need emergency medical treatment, feel free to speak with a trustworthy person to at least gather proof.
Keep Medical, Repair, and Lost Pay Records
To demonstrate economic losses, you (or your attorney) must gather all invoices and receipts indicating the cost of your medical care, property damage, and lost income.
Those who have been injured in accidents may neglect the fact that some items, such as prescription prescriptions, orthopedic devices, medical supplies, and transportation for doctor’s appointments, are eligible for compensation; thus, it is vital to mention them as well.
The procedure of seeking to gather this data after the event is more difficult than acquiring papers while receiving medical care or otherwise incurring fees and losing time at work. It is thus advised that you maintain a notebook in which you document all of the details of your treatment and charges as they occur.
Hire an Attorney
Contact an experienced DUI attorney. A lawyer is not necessary in every vehicle accident case. Having a competent attorney on your side is critical if you have suffered a serious injury or if a criminal prosecution is being filed against the motorist who was at fault for driving under the influence of alcohol.
A competent attorney will ensure that you have a thorough medical evaluation and will be able to examine the accident that has impacted your life. This assessment will account for damages that you may not be aware of are compensable, such as lost earnings and pain and suffering.
