If you are involved in a car accident with a drunk driver, the Law Firm of Carey, Danis & Lowe can give you advice about what to do during a traumatic event of this nature.
We understand that as a victim, you will need to be able quick assistance as it relates to personal injuries of you or other passengers. Whether you are critically injured at the scene of the collision or suffering minor injuries, we would like to suggest some important factors and practices to keep in mind if you should ever find yourself in a traffic infraction involving a drunk driver.
At the Scene of the Accident
Depending on the severity of the accident, it will be crucial to gather as much information as possible for your insurance company and legal associates.
- If you are physically able to do so, call 911 immediately to report the collision.
- Check all other passengers in your vehicle to see if there are any injuries.
- Check all other involved parties to see if there are any injuries.
- Assess the damage of your vehicle.
- Take as many photos of the damage as possible, including surroundings if visibility allows.
- Exchange insurance information with all involved parties.
- Do not leave the scene until authorities AND the Emergency Response Team arrives.
- Provide the authorities with a detailed account of how the accident occurred.
Once You Leave the Scene
Once you leave the scene, you should contact your insurance company immediately and let them know you have been involved in an accident. This is a legal expectation that is part of all car insurance policies. Get a folder to hold copies of information related to the accident. This would include:
- Citations that may have been issued at the scene
- Hospital visit, doctor, or specialist visits/appointments
- Medical bills and receipts related to the accident
- Insurance claim correspondence from all involved parties
- Printed photos from scene and personal injuries
- Tow truck, car rental, and/or auto mechanic receipts
- Estimates of any services for medical, auto, and insurance establishments
- Family Medical Leave Act documentation from employer, if appropriate
Follow-Up Responsibilities
- Attend all hearings, depositions, and legal related appointments.
- Keep open communication between you and your attorneys by providing immediate documentation or feedback when requested.
- Do not respond to your insurance company with negotiated settlements until discussing them with your attorney.
The aftermath of any accident can cause a ripple effect in your ability to recover physically, financially, and mentally. Here at Carey, Danis & Lowe, we want to make sure you fully understand your rights and responsibilities before signing any legal waivers and documents. As with any legal consultative matter, we will readily avail ourselves to assist our clients with getting their lives back to normal as much as possible. Allow us to handle all your legal concerns during this process. Call us today or fill out our online contact form and we will get back to you within 24 hours.
