What Should I Do First if My Car Was Hit by a Drunk Driver?
Being involved in a car accident is a distressing experience, but when the other driver is intoxicated, it adds an extra layer of complexity. Here are the immediate steps you should take if you find yourself in such a situation. Prioritize your safety and gather the necessary evidence to support your legal and insurance claims. Read on to learn more about what you should do if you’re hit by a drunk driver.
Ensure Safety
The first and most important step is to ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers. Check for any injuries and seek medical attention immediately if needed. If you are able to, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic.
Call 911
Regardless of the severity of the accident, it is essential to call 911 and report the incident to the police. This step is critical for both legal and insurance purposes. The police will arrive at the scene, assess the situation, and create an official police report. This police report can prove exceptionally valuable down the line, as you examine possible negligence of the drunk driver in the crash.
Gather Information
While waiting for the authorities to arrive, gather as much information as possible. Take note of the drunk driver’s license plate number, make and model of their vehicle, and any visible damages. If there are witnesses present, ask for their contact information as they may provide valuable testimony later.
Stay Calm and Avoid Confrontation
It is important to remain calm and composed, even if the drunk driver becomes aggressive or confrontational. Engaging in an argument or escalating the situation can lead to further complications. Focus on ensuring your safety and cooperating with the authorities. Someone who already drove drunk and caused an accident can be dangerous. Stay clear and calm even if you may be experiencing alarm, pain, injuries and fear.
Do Not Accept Blame
Avoid accepting any blame for the accident, as anything you say at the scene can be heard by witnesses and may impact your case. Let the police and insurance companies determine fault based on the evidence. The less you say, the better. You can let your insurance company know that an accident occurred, but do your best to leave details unspoken until the evidence is in.
Cooperate with Authorities
Cooperate fully with the police officers at the scene. Provide them with accurate and honest information about the incident. If there is any drug or blood alcohol testing conducted, make sure to find out where and by whom it was done. This information can be vital in supporting your case. If you would like help with the case, reach out to a local personal injury attorney to advise you on next steps.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you believe you are not seriously injured, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical professional can assess your condition thoroughly. Additionally, documenting your injuries will be beneficial for your legal and insurance claims. As soon as you can safely leave the scene, get an appointment with a doctor to help you assess injuries.
Understand the Criminal Case
Remember that a drunk driving incident is not only a civil matter but also a criminal case. It is advisable to find out what happens with the drunk driver’s criminal case, as it may provide additional support for your legal action against them.
The Law Offices of Marc L Shapiro Fights for the Rights of Victims of DUI Accidents
Being involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver can be a traumatic experience. However, by following the steps outlined above, you can ensure your safety, gather necessary evidence, and protect your legal rights. If you find yourself in such a situation, a qualified attorney can evaluate your case and provide guidance. At the Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro, we are ready to assist you and provide the necessary support to help you seek justice. You can reach us online or call us on 1-239-500-5000.
