What Happens If You Are Hit By a Drunk Driver?

Being involved in a car accident is a distressing experience, but the situation becomes even more harrowing when alcohol impairment is a factor. Drunk driving remains a significant cause of road accidents worldwide, leading to devastating consequences for victims. If you find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance of being hit by a drunk driver, it’s crucial to understand the potential repercussions and the steps you can take to protect your rights and seek justice.

Immediate Aftermath

The moments immediately following a collision with a drunk driver can be chaotic and overwhelming. Your priority should always be your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident. If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately and assist within your means.

Once the immediate danger has passed, it’s essential to gather as much information as possible at the scene. This includes exchanging contact and insurance information with the other driver, documenting the damage to vehicles, and obtaining eyewitness accounts if available. If the police are not already on the scene, contact them to report the accident and provide details about the suspected impairment of the other driver.

Medical Attention

Even if you do not initially feel seriously injured, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible following the accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not manifest symptoms immediately but could worsen over time. A thorough medical evaluation will ensure any injuries are diagnosed and treated promptly, improving your chances of a full recovery.

Legal Recourse

Victims of drunk driving accidents have legal options available to them to pursue compensation for their injuries, damages, and losses. In most cases, you can file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company to recover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.

It’s advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in handling cases involving drunk driving accidents. A skilled attorney can guide you through the legal process, gather evidence to support your claim, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and represent your interests in court if necessary.

However, it’s worth noting that the drunk driver may seek assistance from a criminal defense attorney to defend against criminal charges related to the accident. These attorneys specialize in defending individuals charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenses. While their primary focus is on protecting the rights of their clients, including ensuring due process and challenging evidence, it’s important to remember that their role is distinct from the civil claims process aimed at compensating victims.

In conclusion, being hit by a drunk driver can have far-reaching consequences for victims, ranging from physical injuries and emotional trauma to financial hardship. Seeking immediate medical attention, consulting with a personal injury attorney, and understanding the legal and criminal ramifications of the accident are crucial steps in the aftermath. While the drunk driver may seek assistance from a DUI defense attorney to mitigate the consequences, victims have the right to pursue compensation and hold the responsible party accountable for their actions. By advocating for stricter laws and promoting safer driving practices, we can work towards preventing future tragedies on our roads.