Help, I Was Hit By A Drunk Driver And Need A Lawyer

If you or a loved one were hit by a drunk driver this holiday season who had to much to drink at a party, and need an attorney there are things you can do to protect yourself and receive compensation for your loss.

Often, insurance companies just want to settle these cases because juries may award punitive damages against the drunk driver to punish them for driving drunk. You may be entitled to more than you think.

Every day, 1 out of every 53 minutes someone dies because of car accidents caused by drunk drivers. In 2013, more than 275,000 people were injured in drunk driving crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Painfully, only 1% of the 112 million episodes of self-reported alcohol impaired driving of U.S. adults have resulted in arrests, according to a CDC fact sheet.

If you or a loved one are injured because of a drunk driving accident, here are things you should do:

1. If you are involved in a car accident and the driver is drunk, immediately call 911.

In the unfortunate event that one finds themselves involved in a car accident with a suspected drunk driver, it is of utmost importance to promptly dial 911. This action is crucial, not only for the safety of all parties involved but also for the legal implications that could arise from such a situation. When a drunk driver is involved in a car accident, they pose a significant risk to themselves, other drivers, and pedestrians. The immediate call to 911 ensures that medical assistance and law enforcement are dispatched to the scene quickly.

The immediate aftermath of a car accident can be a whirlwind of emotions and confusion. If the driver whom you suspect hit your car is under the influence of alcohol, your first step should be to safeguard your personal safety and then immediately call 911. The call to 911 serves a dual purpose; it not only dispatches emergency services to the scene but also creates a documented record of the accident.

When reporting the car accident, be sure to clearly communicate your suspicion of the other driver’s drunken state. This information will alert the dispatcher to the potential for drunk driving, enabling them to relay the information to the responding officers. The police will then be prepared to conduct a sobriety test on the suspected drunk driver.

2. Do not argue with the drunk driver.

Even if adrenaline and fear are running high, it is crucial to avoid engaging in an argument with the drunk driver, as this can escalate the situation and potentially jeopardize your safety. It is understandable to feel anger and disbelief if you’ve been hit by a drunk driver; however, it’s essential to remember that your safety and well-being are paramount.

In a drunk driving accident, your first priority should be to seek immediate medical attention for any personal injury, even if it appears minor. The next step is to gather as much evidence as possible. This includes taking photos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. It’s also essential to document any interactions with the drunk driver but avoid confrontation.

While it’s natural to demand justice and accountability from the drunk driver, it’s best to leave this to the professionals. Engaging in an argument could provoke the driver, leading to further incidents or even physical violence. Drivers under the influence often act unpredictably due to their impaired judgment, making it unsafe to confront them about their negligence.

Instead, contact an accident lawyer specializing in DUI accidents. They can help ensure that all necessary steps are taken to hold the driver responsible for their actions. A lawyer will also guide you through the process of filing a claim for any damages or injuries you’ve suffered.

3. After you have been hit, seek medical attention immediately, either on scene or request to be transported to the nearest medical facility.

After ensuring safety at the scene of the accident, it is of vital importance to seek immediate medical attention, either from the emergency medical services present or by requesting transportation to the nearest hospital. This is crucial not only for your health but also for any potential legal case that may arise if you were hit by a drunk driver and need a lawyer.

One may not immediately feel the impact of an injury following an accidents car scenario due to the adrenaline rush that often accompanies such incidents. However, some injuries manifest over time, while others may not be physically visible, such as concussions or other internal injuries. Thus, seeking medical attention immediately is paramount.

When you arrive at the nearest medical facility, ensure that you describe in detail to the medical personnel the nature of the accident and any discomfort or pain you may be experiencing. This information will be crucial in diagnosing and treating your personal injuries, and it will also serve as a record that may be important in a legal case.

In the event that you were hit by a drunk driver and need a lawyer, the documentation of your injury will play a significant role. Injury lawyers often rely on such medical records in building a solid case. The law firm representing you will use these records to demonstrate the extent of your injuries and the impact on your life to negotiate a fair settlement or present the case to a jury. Therefore, remember to consult an attorney immediately after seeking medical attention, to guide you through the legal process and advocate for your rights.

4. Get the drunk driver’s license plate, insurance company name, insurance company policy number and drivers license number. If you have a cellphone, take photos of the scene and both vehicles involved, and of the driver.

Gathering essential information at the scene is a crucial step, and this includes noting the drunk driver’s license plate number, the name of their insurance company, the policy number, and their driver’s license number. This part of our accidents guide can significantly influence the direction of your accident case and ensure you’re prepared to deal with the aftermath of a collision involving a drunk driver.

The license plate of the drunk driver is a critical piece of information. It’s your gateway to identifying the driver and their vehicle, especially if they attempt to evade responsibility for the accident. Similarly, obtaining the drunk driver’s license number is important for the legal proceedings that may follow.

As for the insurance company details, they will be necessary for any claims you might need to make. The name of the insurance company and the policy number are vital pieces of information for your accident case. These details would enable you to file a claim directly against the drunk driver’s insurance, which could prove instrumental in getting you the compensation you deserve.

In this digital age, the use of a cellphone can be of great advantage. Use it to take photos of the scene, the vehicles involved, and if possible, the driver. Photos offer a visual record of the incident and can serve as compelling evidence in your accident case.

The aftermath of a driving incident involving a drunk driver can be overwhelming. However, with the right information and a clear accidents guide, you can navigate the situation with more confidence and effectively safeguard your interests.

5. If you are unable to work because you were hit by a drunk driver, make sure you have a doctor’s excuse for every day you can’t work.

If you were hit by a driver who was intoxicated and left you incapable of carrying out your job, it is crucial to promptly secure a doctor’s note for each day of work missed due to your injuries. This documentation is essential not only for your employer’s understanding and cooperation but can also serve as a pivotal piece of evidence should you need to seek compensation for your losses.

Being the victim of a drunk driving accident could place a heavy burden on you and your family. The consequences often extend beyond physical injuries. The potential loss of income could affect your ability to pay bills and cover living expenses during your recovery. In this situation, you may find yourself in need of financial restitution to mitigate the damage caused by the incident.

A doctor’s note provides a clear record of your condition, the severity of your injuries, and the estimated recovery time. This is crucial when making a claim for compensation, as it substantiates your inability to work. It is, therefore, recommended to obtain a doctor’s note for every day you are unable to fulfill your work duties due to the accident-related injuries.

Compensation claims in drunk driving cases can cover a wide range of damages, including medical bills, physical therapy, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The more documentation you have to support your claim, the better your chances of receiving the restitution you need to help your family through this difficult time.

6. Hire a lawyer that specializes in drunk driver accident cases.

Navigating the complexity of legal proceedings when you’ve had a drunk driver hit you requires the expertise of a seasoned lawyer, specializing in such cases. These attorneys, like the ones at Kerner Law Group, P.C., not only have a profound understanding of civil and criminal laws but are also well-versed in the specific state dram shop laws and their potential implications on your case.

An experienced lawyer can help you navigate through the multidimensional aspects of your case. The attorney’s primary duty is to ensure that your rights are protected and that justice is served.

The process of hiring an attorney that specializes in drunk driver accident cases should not be taken lightly. Below are three critical factors to consider:

• The attorney’s track record in handling similar cases. This not only includes victories in court but also favorable settlements negotiated outside the courtroom.
• The firm’s reputation in the legal community and the standing of the attorney within the firm.
• The attorney’s approach to client communication. You need a lawyer who’s responsive, patient, and willing to explain the complexities of your case in understandable terms.

Whether it’s a civil case seeking compensation for damages or a criminal case to ensure the drunk driver faces justice, your attorney is an indispensable ally. A lawyer with specialization in drunk driver cases will have the expertise and experience to guide you through this challenging journey.

7. Get a copy of the police accident report.

After securing legal representation, it becomes crucial to obtain a copy of the police accident report, as it provides a detailed account of the incident and could serve as a vital piece of evidence in your case. This report, prepared by the responding law enforcement officer at the scene of the accident, includes a wealth of information including the date, time, and location of the accident, descriptions of the vehicles involved, statements from witnesses, and any citations issued.

Police reports also commonly include a diagram of the accident, the officer’s observations of the scene, and his or her opinion on who was at fault. This can be pivotal in drunk driving cases, as it will often note if the driver appeared intoxicated, performed poorly on field sobriety tests, or had a high breathalyzer result.

To obtain a copy of the report, you’ll need to contact the police department that responded to the accident. While procedures vary, usually a written request and a small fee is required. It may take a few weeks for the report to be ready, so it’s advisable to request it as soon as possible.

It is against the law to drive while intoxicated, however many people this holiday season drink at parties and think they are okay to drive. Knowing what to do will help you get legal representation more effective, and your case settled more quickly.

If You Have Been Hit By A Driver Who Was Drunk, Kerner Law Group, P.C. Can Get You The Justice And Compensation You Deserve

If you or your loved one was injured by a driver who was drunk and you are in need of a dui acciden lawyer to get you and your family justice, the personal injury attorneys at the Kerner Law Group, P.C., located in the Riverdale/Kingsbridge section of The Bronx, will investigate, prosecute and negotiate with the insurance company of the negligent party to settle your claim and obtain compensation for you and your family based upon the severity of your injury, your losses, your expenses, and your pain and suffering.  If you would like a legal opinion on the potential value of your matter or have a question about your rights, contact an expert car accident lawyer at (718) 796-7900 to schedule a FREE Consultation online so we can evaluate your drunk driving car accident case.