If you have been hit by a drunk driver, it’s important to take the proper steps in order to make sure that any physical or financial damages caused by their negligence are taken care of. From seeking medical attention and gathering information about the drunk driver to documenting expenses and consulting with an attorney, these steps will help ensure that you receive proper compensation for any injuries or losses suffered due to their actions.
Steps to Take After Being Hit By a Drunk Driver
Being hit by a drunk driver can be traumatizing, and it is important to remain calm in order to properly handle the situation. Here are some of the steps you should take in order to protect your rights and receive appropriate compensation for any damages you have suffered.Seek Medical Attention
Even if you do not feel like you are seriously injured, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible after the accident. In some cases, the effects of an accident caused by drunk driving may not be immediately apparent and could manifest days or even weeks later. It is important to have yourself examined so that any potential injuries can be addressed early on.Gather Information About the Drunk Driver
It is important to gather information about the drunk driver who hit you. If they don’t flee the scene, try to get their name, address, license plate number, vehicle make/model, insurance provider, and any other details that may be useful in filing a claim or pressing charges. It also helps if there were any witnesses around who can corroborate your story.Notify Your Insurance Provider
After seeking medical attention for any injuries, the next step is to contact your insurance provider and file a claim. Provide all relevant information about the drunk driver who hit you, such as their name, address, license plate number, vehicle make/model, and insurance provider. Your insurance company may be able to work with the drunk driver’s insurer to cover any costs associated with the accident, such as medical bills or vehicle repairs. However, if the drunk driver does not have adequate auto insurance coverage or no coverage at all, you may need to pursue other avenues for compensation.Hire an Attorney
It’s highly recommended that you consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in drunk driving accidents. An attorney may be able to help you understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation from the drunk driver who hit you. In some cases, they may even be able to negotiate a settlement on your behalf in order to avoid taking the matter to court.Document Your Injuries and Expenses
It is essential to document any physical or psychological injuries suffered as a result of the drunk driving accident. This includes taking pictures of your injuries, keeping copies of medical bills, and maintaining a written record of all expenses incurred due to the drunk driver’s negligence. These records may be necessary in order to help build a strong case against the drunk driver who hit you.Consult an Attorney
Finally, if you are considering taking legal action against the drunk driver who hit you, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights and determine what type of legal action may be necessary in order to pursue compensation for your injuries and other costs associated with the accident.Car Accident and DRAM Shop Lawyers at Cummings & Lewis, LLC
Dealing with the aftermath of being hit by a drunk driver can be overwhelming, but it is important to take the right steps toward protecting your rights and pursuing justice. At Cummings & Lewis, LLC, we are dedicated to helping victims of drunk driving accidents recover the compensation they deserve. Our experienced drunk driving accident attorneys understand the laws that apply to drunk drivers and can help you pursue a claim or lawsuit against them if required. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and how we may be able to assist you in recovering compensation.
With 50+ years of combined legal experience, the attorneys at Cummings & Lewis, LLC represent people who need legal assistance. Our size, experience, and legal knowledge allow us to represent people who face all sorts of legal concerns in state and federal courts.