How Can You Protect Your Legal Rights After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver?
Being hit by a drunk driver can be devastating. Unfortunately, drunk driving accidents are quite common in the United States of America. According to the NHTSA, almost 40 people lose their lives in the U.S. in drunk-driving accidents daily. In 2022 alone, over 13,500 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes. Hundreds of thousands of people are injured annually due to drunk driving crashes. If you’ve been injured in a Florida drunk driving accident, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim and seek justice and compensation. However, the legal process can be intimidating and complex. Thankfully, you can navigate it successfully with the right information and guidance. Below, we share some steps to take to protect your legal rights after being involved in a drunk driving accident.
- Call the Police
After being hit by a drunk driver, the first thing you should do, as long as your condition allows you, is to call the police. Once the police arrive at the scene, they will document the scene, collect evidence, and prepare an official report. A police report can serve as vital evidence in your case as it may contain details of the accident, the other driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC), and witness statements. Ensure you get a copy of the police report.
- Seek Prompt Medical Attention
After a drunk driving accident, you should seek prompt medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, ensure you seek immediate medical attention. Seeking prompt medical attention is critical for your health and legal case. Seeking prompt medical attention establishes a timely official record of your injuries, which is vital for proving the link between the accident and your injuries, as well as the severity of your injuries.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are in a condition to do so, document the accident scene with pictures, ensuring you capture your injuries, damage to the vehicles, road conditions, weather conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, and anything else you deem relevant. Documenting the scene shortly after the accident helps preserve crucial details that might be altered.
If there are people who witnessed the accident, get their names and contact information. Witness statements can help corroborate your story. Additionally, maintain detailed notes of what happened before and after the accident, as memory can fade over time.
- Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
One of the most vital steps after being hit by a drunk driver is contacting a personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you understand and protect your legal rights. They can help you navigate the complex legal process. Drunk driving accident cases often involve complex legal issues, such as determining liability, assessing damages, and negotiating with insurance companies. An attorney can help you recover the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other damages and losses.
Contact Us for Legal Help
At The Pendas Law Firm, our Orlando personal injury attorneys can guide you every step of the way as you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Ocala, Tampa, Miami, Jacksonville, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, Naples, Melbourne, Fort Myers, and Fort Lauderdale areas.
Source:
nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving