The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also bring about increased risks on the roads. Poor weather conditions combined with a rise in drunk and impaired driving contribute to a less safe driving environment. If you find yourself injured by a drunk or impaired driver during the holidays, it's important to know how to navigate the situation to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. In this blog, we will discuss the steps to take if you are injured by a drunk or impaired driver this holiday season.
1. Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention
The most important concern after an accident is your safety and well-being. If you or anyone else involved in the accident is injured, seek medical attention immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it's crucial to have a medical professional evaluate your condition. Adrenaline and shock can mask the extent of injuries, and prompt medical care ensures proper documentation of your injuries.
2. Call Law Enforcement
Contact the local law enforcement authorities to report the accident. This is important after every accident because you might not initially realize whether the other driver is intoxicated or impaired. This will also help establish a record of the incident, which will help during the legal process.
3. Gather Information
Collect as much information as possible at the accident scene. This includes the other driver's contact information, insurance details, and license plate number. If there are witnesses, obtain their names and contact information as well.
4. Document the Scene
Use your smartphone or a camera to take photographs and videos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. These photographs and videos will serve as valuable evidence later on.
5. Avoid Interacting with the Drunk or Impaired Driver
While it's important to exchange necessary information, it's advisable to avoid engaging in lengthy discussions with the other driver. Emotions can run high, and it's best to let law enforcement handle the situation.
6. Do Not Discuss Fault
Avoid making statements about fault or liability at the scene of the accident. These statements can potentially be used against you later in the legal process, even if they do not seem harmful to you at the time.
7. Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your own insurance company about the accident and provide them with accurate and honest information. However, it's advisable to consult an attorney before providing any detailed statements or signing documents for any insurance company.
8. Consult an Attorney
Contact a personal injury attorney who specializes in accidents involving drunk and impaired drivers. An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
9. Preserve Evidence
Keep all documents and evidence related to the accident, including medical records, repair estimates, and correspondence with insurance companies. These records will be essential in building a strong case.
10. Know Your Rights
Understanding your rights is crucial when dealing with injuries from any accident. An attorney will help you navigate the legal requirements and complexities involved in every case, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
Basch & Keegan is Here to Help
Being injured by a drunk or impaired driver during the holiday season is a distressing experience, but knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in your ability to recover physically, emotionally, and financially. Prioritize your safety, seek medical attention, and consult a skilled personal injury attorney to guide you through the legal process and ensure that justice is served. By taking these steps, you can assert your rights, hold the responsible party accountable, and work towards obtaining the compensation you need to move forward after a traumatic incident.
As we embark on our holiday journeys, you can count on Basch & Keegan to be there when you need us most. Our skilled car accident attorneys have years of experience when it comes to drunk and impaired driving accidents.
Call 845-338-8884 or contact us online today. We're here to help you get your life back on track and fight for the compensation you deserve.