No one expects that getting hit by a drunk driver will be part of their day, but hundreds of people experience an accident with someone under the influence of alcohol every year in Florida. Driving while intoxicated is a serious offense, the consequences of which can be disastrous and even deadly.
If you are not sure what to do following an accident with a drunk driver, this article is for you. Read on to learn what steps you should take.
Steps to Take After Getting Hit by a Drunk Driver
When you are involved in an accident, you should always take certain steps to ensure that everyone is safe and gets the emergency help they need. In a serious accident, you should always call 911 to file an accident report, but if you or anyone else involved in the accident are injured, it’s even more critical to get emergency responders to the scene.
If you are able, you should gather as much information as possible about the accident. The information you gather should include the following:
- Names and contact information of anyone involved
- Vehicle information, including license plate and registration
- Insurance information for all drivers involved
- The location of the accident
- The driving conditions during the accident—lighting, weather, road conditions
- Information that might determine the person who was at fault
Some of this information will be available in the police report, but you can gather it on your own to ensure it is recorded.
Getting hit by a drunk driver is a little different from an accident that happens under other circumstances. The drunk driver is breaking the law, which could influence their behavior. They may try to convince you not to involve the police or try to flee before the authorities arrive. They may become aggressive with you. If you feel uncomfortable about the other driver’s behavior, wait in your car and avoid interacting with them until the police are on the scene.
If you suspect the other driver may be intoxicated, make note of any evidence you witness. Look for the signs of intoxication, such as the smell of alcohol, slurred speech, inability to stand or walk in a straight line, and the presence of alcohol containers in or near the driver’s vehicle. Report this information to the police when they arrive.
Can I Sue for a DUI Accident?
In some cases, you may be able to file a lawsuit against a drunk driver for damages following an accident. Florida is a no-fault state, so the accident must exceed the bodily injury threshold. Unfortunately, in many drunk driving cases, the injuries are often severe.
After Getting Hit by a Drunk Driver, You Will Need Help
If you were in an accident with a driver who was operating their vehicle under the influence, do not hesitate to get the legal help that you need. We are here to help, so get in touch to set up a consultation today.
Are you ready to pursue your case? Contact us today and set up an appointment to speak to an attorney. Call us at 1-800-24-7-CRASH or write to us at [email protected].
