[1].1908130926479.jpg)
Driving under the influence of alcohol is exceedingly dangerous, and drunk driving is a factor in many dangerous accidents on our roadways. If a drunk driver leaves you or someone you care about injured in a car accident, it is useful to know the best steps forward to help protect both your ongoing well-being and your case.
Call the Police
If a drunk driver leaves you injured in an accident, it is time to call the police (or 911, depending upon the seriousness of the accident). Do not let the driver talk you into exchanging insurance information and dealing with the issue later. The only way to take care of the matter and to establish that the other driver is indeed under the influence is to notify the authorities immediately.
Seek Medical Attention
Seek the medical attention you need. Always put your health and well-being first. Further, if anyone else was injured in the accident, do what you can to provide aid to him or her until professional help arrives.
Gather Evidence by Taking Photos and Videos
Take pictures and videos that record the scene of the accident – this can include capturing the negligent driver on film. Pictures and videos can serve as compelling evidence in your case and will help support your testimony.
Gather Witness Statements and Contact Information
Do not rely upon the police to gather witness statements and contact information. These corroborating statements can be critical to your case, so if you are not able to gather the information yourself, ask a bystander to take care of it for you.
Follow through with Your Medical Care
Carefully following your doctor's orders after an accident is not only critical to your health but can also affect your case. This means adhering to all medical recommendations, including those involving:
- Treatment protocols
- Appointments with specialists
- Physical therapy
- Post-accident physical activity
- Follow-up care
- Prescription medications
Cooperate with the DA Prosecuting the Drunk Driver
If the drunk driver who left you injured is convicted of a drunk driving charge, it will likely also help your civil case against him or her (and could help keep a dangerous driver off of our roadways). If you are asked to be interviewed or to testify against the driver, cooperate fully – under the advisement of your experienced personal injury attorney – and focus on relaying the truth as accurately as you can.