Unfortunately, there are times when people make the unwise decision to drive while intoxicated. When people do so, not only do they put themselves and others in danger but they can cause significant physical and emotional harm if an accident occurs. If you have been injured by a drunk driver, it is important to know your rights and the steps you should take afterward. In this blog post, we will discuss what to do if you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, from filing a claim with your insurance company to seeking legal action against the individual at fault.
What are the Steps to take if you’ve been Hit by a Drunk Driver?
If you are Hit by a Drunk Driver, there are a Few Steps you should take:
1. Seek medical attention immediately. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.
2. Call the police and file a report. This is important for insurance purposes and also to ensure that drunk driver is held accountable for their actions.
3. Gather evidence. If possible, take photos of the accident scene and get the contact information of any witnesses.
4. Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and fight for compensation for your injuries.
Who is Responsible for your Injuries?
If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, you may be wondering who is responsible for your injuries. The answer depends on the circumstances of your case.
If the drunk driver was working at the time of the accident, his or her employer may be held liable for your injuries under the doctrine of vicarious liability. If the driver was not working at the time of the accident, he or she will be held liable for your injuries.
In either case, the drunk driver’s insurance company will likely be responsible for paying for your medical bills and other damages resulting from the accident. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, your own insurance company may also be responsible for paying some or all of your damages.
If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, it’s important to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options and ensure that you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries.
How can you get Compensated for your Injuries?
If you have been injured by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. There are a few different ways that you can get compensated for your injuries.
First, if the drunk driver was arrested and convicted of DUI, you may be able to get compensated through the criminal justice system. You can contact the prosecutor handling the case and ask about victim compensation programs.
Second, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the drunk driver. If you win your lawsuit, you will be compensated for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Third, if the drunk driver was insured, you may be able to get compensated through their insurance company. You should contact the insurance company and explain what happened. The insurance company will then investigate the accident and determine if they owe you any money.
What are some common Injuries from Drunk Driving Accidents?
According to the CDC, drunk driving accidents are responsible for 29% of all traffic-related fatalities in the United States. In 2017, 10,874 people were killed in drunk driving accidents. Of those, 1,489 were children under the age of 14.
There are a variety of injuries that can result from drunk driving accidents, some of which are more common than others. Some of the most common injuries include:
-Brain injuries: Drunk driving accidents can cause traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which can lead to a number of problems including memory loss, difficulty speaking or thinking, and paralysis.
-Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord injuries can occur when the spinal cord is damaged, which can cause paralysis below the point of injury.
-Internal bleeding: Internal bleeding is often caused by broken bones or organs being damaged in a car accident. It can be difficult to identify internal bleeding as it may not present any obvious symptoms until it is too late.
-Lacerations: Lacerations are deep cuts that often require stitches or surgery to close. They can be particularly dangerous if they occur on the face or neck as they may damage nerves or arteries.
How can you Prevent being Hit by a Drunk Driver?
One of the best ways to avoid being injured by a drunk driver is to be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you see a car weaving in and out of traffic or driving erratically, do not hesitate to call the police. You can also stay off the roads during peak drinking hours, which are typically late at night and early in the morning. If you must be on the road during these times, be sure to drive defensively and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.
Conclusion
Experiencing an injury due to a drunk driver can be a traumatic experience, both physically and mentally. It’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible and contact the authorities if you believe that the person who injured you was driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Furthermore, it is important to contact an experienced attorney that can help you file a claim for damages related to your injuries and any financial loss suffered due to this incident. Taking these steps will ensure that justice is served and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.