If you have been hit by a drunk driver, the first thing you should do is call the police. Drunk driving accidents can be very serious, and it is important to get law enforcement on the scene as soon as possible. After you have called the police, there are a few other things you should do to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. In this blog post, we will discuss what to do after being hit by a drunk driver.
Call Your Lawyer
The next thing you should do after being hit by a drunk driver is call a personal injury lawyer. A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you are compensated for your injuries. It is important to find an expert in this field. For example, if you live in North Carolina and are looking for a Raleigh drunk driving accident attorney, you need to find a reputable and experienced lawyer in this area. If you have been seriously injured, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit in order to get the compensation you deserve.
Call the Police
As we mentioned before, you should call the police after being hit by a drunk driver. The police will create a report of the accident, which can be used as evidence in your personal injury case. The police may also arrest the drunk driver if they have enough evidence to do so. Also, be sure to get the name and contact information of any witnesses to the accident. These witnesses can provide valuable testimony if your case goes to trial.
Get Medical Treatment
If you have been injured in a drunk driving accident, it is important to get medical treatment as soon as possible. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it is still a good idea to see a doctor. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not show symptoms right away. If you wait too long to get medical treatment, the insurance company may try to argue that your injuries are not related to the accident. Also, if you need a longer time period to recover, then the sooner you start treatment, the better.
Document the accident
If you have been hit by a drunk driver, it is important to document the accident. Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and get the contact information of any witnesses. It is also a good idea to keep a journal detailing your injuries and how they have affected your life. You should also save any medical records and bills related to the accident. Another great idea is that you should make a video of the accident and the injuries you suffered if you are able to do so. This documentation will be important if you decide to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Contact Your Insurance Company
After you have called the police and your lawyer, you should contact your insurance company. Your insurance company will need to know about the accident so that they can begin processing your claim. If the drunk driver is insured, their insurance company will also need to be notified of the accident. You will also need your attorney here as insurance companies will try to give you the least amount of money possible. Due to that, you need an expert who knows how to negotiate with them.
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If you have been hit by a drunk driver and have suffered serious injuries, you may want to file a personal injury lawsuit. A personal injury lawsuit is a civil lawsuit that allows you to recover damages for your injuries. In order to file a personal injury lawsuit, you will need to prove that the drunk driver was at fault for the accident and that you suffered damages as a result of the accident. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you gather the evidence you need to prove your case and win compensation for your injuries. Also, if the drunk driver was convicted of DUI, you may be able to use this conviction as evidence in your lawsuit.
The legal process after being hit by a drunk driver can be complicated and overwhelming. That is why it is important to have an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you have been hit by a drunk driver, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
