Car accidents are frightening and emotionally draining, but when alcohol is involved, the effects become much more severe. If you have been involved in a drunk driving accident and want to protect yourself legally and financially, consulting an experienced car accident lawyer is your best action. They can help guide you through the process and ensure you don’t make any mistakes that could cost you.
According to statistics from NHTSA, an average of 32 people die daily due to alcohol-impaired car crashes —that’s one person every 45 minutes. In 2020, this number rose drastically to 11,654 deaths. This article will discuss do’s and don’ts after a drunk driving accident to prevent post-accident challenges.
The Dos and Don’ts of Drunk Driving Accidents
DO Call the Police
If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident, the most important action you should take is to call the police immediately. This will allow an official report to be filed and ensure the other driver is held accountable for their actions. Even if they try to discourage you from doing so, calling 911 is necessary to uphold your legal rights in this situation.
DON’T Give the Insurance Company a Recorded Statement
It is highly recommended that you not provide a recorded statement to the insurance company. Despite their initial appearance of concern, insurance adjusters are often trained to phrase questions in a manner that puts you at a disadvantage and may be used against you when seeking compensation.
For your protection and benefit, it is best to politely decline any request of communication from an insurance company and ask them to contact your attorney.
DO Take Pictures and Gather Evidence
After an accident, it’s essential to take pictures of damaged vehicles, skid marks, debris on the road, and applicable traffic signs. It’s also advisable to photograph any physical injuries you sustained as a result of the incident. It can be beneficial to document the healing process by taking pictures each day until they heal completely.
DON’T Make Any Settlement Without Contacting a Lawyer First
If an insurance company offers you a settlement, no matter how small or large, it is always wise to seek the counsel of a qualified attorney before signing any agreement. A release that individuals sign off on can limit their ability to receive further compensation if an injury is more severe than initially anticipated.
Settling too quickly may lead to unexpected medical costs or lost wages stemming from recovery time, meaning they cannot regain the late costs that arise. As such, consulting with legal representation before signing any documents is highly advisable. Insurance companies have access to trained lawyers, so you should too! Don’t put yourself at risk; and speak with an expert.
DO Hire the Experienced Attorney Immediately
A lawyer can help ensure your rights as a plaintiff are protected and that you receive the maximum compensation possible. They can also guide you through the complexities of the legal system, helping protect you against costly mistakes such as accepting a substandard settlement or admitting fault. It is essential to research any chosen attorney, look into their education, training, and field experience, and ensure that they can fight for your best interests.
Conclusion
To ensure your legal rights are upheld and you get the compensation you deserve, acting according to specific guidelines after a drunk driving accident is essential. It is also recommended that you consult with an experienced car accident lawyer when dealing with any issues related to the incident. By taking these steps, you can be rest assured that your rights will be defended and any damages will be compensated.