What Steps Should You Take After Being Hit By A Drunk Driver?
According to the NHTSA, approximately 28 people die in drunk driving-related crashes in America every day. This means that about one person dies every 52 minutes. In 2019, the number of drunk driving-related deaths reached the lowest percentage since 1982; however, more than 10,000 people still died. Unfortunately, drunk driving is a serious problem in the state of Florida. Despite the strict rules that have been put in place to curb drunk driving, Florida drivers continue getting behind the wheel while intoxicated and causing serious harm.
If you get into an accident with a drunk driver, it is crucial that you take certain steps to protect your health and legal right to compensation. Below, we will look at the steps you should take after being hit by a drunk driver.
Call Law Enforcement
After being hit by a drunk driver, ensure you call the police to the accident scene. Drunk drivers have a tendency to negotiate with victims. After a car accident, don’t allow a drunk driver to convince you not to call the police.
Give a Detailed Statement
Once law enforcers arrive at the accident scene, ensure you provide them with a detailed statement of what you saw or heard. In your statement, it would be best for you to mention that you believe the driver who hit you was intoxicated. Also, make sure you tell the police why you think so, but without making any assumptions. If, for example, you believe the other driver was drunk because you noticed they had slurred speech, ensure you let the police know.
Gather Information
After being in a car accident, you need to obtain the other motorist’s information and give them your information. It shouldn’t be any different, even in a drunk driving case. However, when drivers are drunk, they might become violent, distressed, or agitated when asked for information after an accident. If the drunk driver refuses to cooperate or you believe they are not in a state to give you the information you need, write down other details such as their car’s make, model, and license plate number.
Seek Medical Attention
Make sure you seek medical attention after being hit by a drunk driver. You can call an ambulance or have someone do that for you. If you choose not to call an ambulance to the accident scene, make sure you see your doctor as soon as possible after your car accident. You should seek immediate medical treatment even if you believe you have not suffered injuries. Sometimes, immediately after a car accident, you might not be able to tell that you are injured. Similar to police reports, medical records are crucial pieces of evidence that can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If a drunk driver has hit you, our Jacksonville personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm can help you. We understand the effects a drunk-driving accident can have on a victim’s life and are committed to helping our clients get the justice they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Miami, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Ocala, Orlando, Tampa, Bradenton, and Daytona Beach areas.
Resource:
nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving
