It is well known that driving drunk or high can be dangerous, but many people still choose to get behind the wheel, especially during the holidays in fall and winter. Drunk drivers are more likely to cause tragic accidents than sober drivers due to slower reaction times and impaired judgment.
The consequences of a car accident can last a lifetime. Our personal injury lawyers at Dempsey, Roberts & Smith want to offer some tips for victims on how to deal with the aftermath of a drunk driving accident.
1. Take Note of Any Injuries
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and move your vehicle to a safe area of the road. If you are unable to move your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights.
2. Call 911 and Report the Accident to the Police
Report the accident to the police and inform them that you suspect the other driver is intoxicated. They may conduct tests on the other driver for impairment, which could result in a stronger negligence case and sometimes a larger settlement.
3. Obtain Driver Information
The insurance company needs to have adequate documentation about the accident, so gather as much information as possible. The information can be obtained on your behalf by a police officer or a passenger in your vehicle if you are physically incapable. A police report may not contain all the details you need to prove your claim, so you should not rely solely on it.
Take note of the make, model, and license plate of any car involved. Get the name, contact information, and insurance information of every person involved.
4. Take Photos of the Accident Scene
Document your accident scene, your injuries, and anything else that may be relevant to your claim with photographs and videos.
5. Obtain Witness Statements
Get statements from eyewitnesses as soon as possible. It is recommended to video record or write down statements if possible.
6. Consult a Medical Professional
It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after leaving the scene. Even if you do not have visible injuries, you should still seek medical attention. Symptoms often do not manifest for hours or days after the accident. Documenting your injuries is important when filing an insurance claim. Follow your doctor’s instructions, including possible rehabilitation, to prevent further injuries.
Our DUI Accident Lawyers Can Help You Recover Compensation from a Drunk Driving Accident
Oftentimes, the insurance company will try to offer you the lowest settlement possible, which may not be enough to compensate you for months or years of recovery.
Our Henderson DUI accident attorneys will guide you through the legal process of recovering from a drunk driving car accident and use our best efforts to obtain the maximum compensation for your injuries. For a free consultation with one of our Henderson DUI accident attorneys, call Dempsey, Roberts & Smith at (702) 388-1216.