The likelihood that you or a family member will suffer catastrophic injuries or death is greater if you are involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver. Because of the potentially large value of your claim for compensation, it is crucial that you take these five steps to protect your legal rights so that you receive the compensation you deserve from the negligent driver.
Seek Medical Care
If you were hurt in the crash, call an ambulance or go to the emergency room for immediate medical treatment. Even if you believe you suffered no injuries, you should be examined by your physician within a few days. The symptoms of some injuries can take days or longer to develop. In addition, you avoid disputes with the drunk driver’s insurance company about the cause of your injuries by seeking prompt medical care.
Call the Police
Contact the police at the collision scene. The officer will conduct an investigation and write a police report that will contain helpful information such as a narration of how the accident occurred, who caused it, and whether traffic citations were issued. He will also require the other driver to submit to a breathalyzer or other test to determine his level of intoxication and arrest him if he is drunk.
Obtain Contact Information
You should collect the contact information for the other driver, his insurance company, and any witnesses to the accident. You could lose valuable evidence if you do not get third-party witness’ contact information right away.
Take Pictures
It is important to take a picture of the other driver’s license plate as soon as possible with your cell phone camera because he could flee the scene if he is afraid of being arrested. Also take photos of the damage to the vehicles, the crash scene, skid marks, your injuries, and anything else you think might help you prove your case.
Hire an Attorney
You need to retain an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible after your drunk driving accident. He can help you avoid mistakes that can hurt your case, collect the evidence you need to win it, and fight with the insurance company so that you receive the settlement you deserve.
Do you have additional questions about what you should do or your right to compensation for your injuries? Call our Roswell office to schedule a free case evaluation to get your questions answered and learn about our track record of success in drunk driving accident cases.
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