Accidents can be difficult and scary. If you get out of an accident with injuries, the cost of medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering can be overwhelming. This is especially true when the other driver was operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The thought of going through the legal process can be daunting. Insurance companies may try to minimize the payout and even deny your claim altogether. Taking the proper steps following a drunk driving accident is vital to ensure you get the compensation you need for your medical bills and other damages. Here are five critical steps to take:
1. Call the Police
The first thing you should do after any car accident is calling the police. Having an official report on file will help you later when dealing with insurance companies and other legal matters. The police will investigate the accident and question those involved, including any witnesses. This can help establish who was at fault and whether or not the other driver was drunk. A police report is crucial in drunk driving cases, so ensure you get a copy of the report for your records.
2. Seek Medical Attention
If you feel any pain or discomfort after an accident, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you think the injuries are minor, still get checked out by a doctor. Some symptoms of injuries may not show up for days or weeks after the accident, so it’s essential to get examined immediately just to be sure. If you suspect you may have broken a body part or suffered an internal injury, go to the hospital immediately. The hospital will run tests to determine the extent of any injuries and provide you with medical care if necessary.
3. Gather Evidence
If possible, try to gather as much evidence at the scene of the accident to strengthen your claim. Take pictures or videos of the vehicles, skid marks on the road, and any visible damage that may have resulted from the crash. Collect the contact information of any witnesses and make notes about the events that transpired leading up to the accident. Make sure to save any receipts or bills that you have related to the accident, such as medical and repair costs. This will help you later when filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve received medical attention and gathered evidence, it’s time to contact your insurance company and start filing a claim. Be sure to provide your insurance company with all the necessary documentation and information about the accident, including the police report, medical records, bills, and witness statements. Insurance companies can be challenging to deal with, so be prepared for a long process. If the other driver’s insurance company refuses to pay, you may need to hire an attorney and take legal action.
5. Hire a Drunk Driving Attorney
Drunk driving accidents can be complex and require the help of an experienced attorney. An experienced drunk driving accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and get the compensation you deserve for your injuries, damages, and losses. They can also help you understand your rights and ensure that the other driver’s insurance company is responsible for their actions.
When hiring an attorney, ensure you provide them with all the necessary evidence, documents, and information related to the accident. This will help ensure that your case has the best chance of success.
The steps you take following a drunk driving accident can affect your ability to get the compensation you deserve. If you have any injuries, get medical attention and find an experienced attorney to help you with the legal process. Be sure to look at the evidence you provide, as it greatly influences the outcome of your case. With the proper steps, you can get the compensation you deserve and ensure justice is served.
