Being a part of an intoxicated driver’s collision can have terrible effects on one’s physical and mental health. You could have to deal with financial difficulties and legal issues in addition to coping with injuries and property damage. This post will go over five crucial legal actions you should take after being struck by a drunk driver. These actions will guide you through the legal system and guarantee that you get the justice and money you are entitled to.
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Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention:
Making sure that you and the other people involved in the accident are safe is the first and most important thing to do after being struck by a drunk driver. Even if you initially think your injuries are minor, get medical help right away if you or anybody else is hurt. Your health and legal case must record your injuries and obtain medical attention quickly. In addition, report the collision to the authorities and get a police report that recounts the events, including the driver’s drunkenness. Never forget that getting medical treatment is crucial to your well-being and that having accurate records of your injuries is necessary for both your legal case and receiving compensation.
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Gather Evidence at the Scene:
It is advisable to collect as much evidence as you can at the accident scene to back up your legal claim. Take pictures of the collision site that include the road signs, traffic lights, skid marks, and any car damage. As their testimonies might be important evidence in your case, get the intoxicated driver’s contact information as well as the contact information of any spectators to the collision. Make a note of all of this data for your records if the police do sobriety checks or arrest the motorist for DUI. Your case for receiving damages and compensation for your injuries will be stronger the more evidence you gather on the spot.
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Notify Your Insurance Company:
As soon as you can, report the collision to your insurance provider and give them all the pertinent information, including the other driver’s intoxication. Communicate openly and truthfully with your insurance provider, but exercise caution when making recorded comments or signing documents without first seeking legal advice from a personal injury attorney. Although your insurance provider will probably look into the accident on its own, having legal counsel can assist in safeguarding your rights and guarantee that you get paid fairly. Keep in mind that your insurance provider is available to help; nevertheless, speaking with a lawyer guarantees that your rights are protected.
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Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer:
After being struck by an intoxicated motorist, it is imperative to get legal advice from an experienced personal injury attorney. A drunk driving accident attorney can evaluate the merits of your claim, counsel you on your alternatives and legal rights, and guide you through the difficult legal system. Gathering evidence, negotiating with insurers on your behalf, and, if needed, filing a lawsuit to recover damages for your injuries, medical costs, lost earnings, and pain and suffering are all tasks your attorney will handle. Having an attorney on your side makes sure your rights are upheld and improves your chances of getting the money you are due.
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Pursue Legal Action:
You have the right to file a lawsuit to hold the intoxicated motorist accountable and recover damages if they hit you. Your personal injury attorney will assist you with the process of bringing a lawsuit in civil court if needed and making a claim against the insurance provider of the intoxicated motorist. Throughout the courtroom process, your attorney will speak on your behalf, defending your rights and pursuing just compensation. A successful conclusion in your civil lawsuit may also be enhanced if the intoxicated motorist is found guilty of DUI in a criminal court. Recall that taking legal action helps you get justice for the harm you’ve suffered and keeps the offending party accountable for their conduct.
Conclusion
While being struck by a drunk driver can be a horrific experience, it’s important to safeguard your rights and pursue damages and compensation for your losses by filing the appropriate legal paperwork as soon as possible. You can confidently navigate the legal process and seek justice for yourself and your loved ones by adhering to these five steps: making sure you’re safe and getting medical attention, accumulating evidence at the scene, notifying your insurer, speaking with a lawyer who specializes in personal injury cases, and pursuing legal action.