What is the first things you should do after being involved in an accident with a drunk driver?

Drunken Driver Accident

If you are involved in an accident with a drunk driver, it is crucial to handle the situation carefully. Here is a step-by-step guide on what to do:

1. Ensure Safety First:

   • Check for Injuries: Make sure you and your passengers are safe. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance.

   • Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further accidents, but only if it is safe to do so.

2. Call Emergency Services:

   • Dial 911: Report the accident to the police. Inform them that the other driver appears to be intoxicated. Police presence is necessary to document the incident and potentially arrest the drunk driver.

3. Avoid Confrontation:

   • Stay Calm: Avoid engaging with the drunk driver. They might be unpredictable or aggressive. If they complain that you caused the accident, just do not say anything. Just listen. Let them dig a hole with slurred speech, unsteady gait, and wobbling. Keep track of what they doing, meaning make a mental note.
   • Keep Your Distance: Stay in your vehicle or a safe location until the authorities arrive.

4. Document the Scene:

   • Take Photos: Capture images of the accident scene, including vehicle damage for both vehicles, license plates, and any visible injuries.
   • Collect Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver if it is safe to do so. Also, gather contact details from any witnesses. The police will provide you with an Information Exchange paper. If the police are there, just let the office do his or her thing and to gather information from the drunk driver. The office will come over to you after finishing up with the other driver.

5. Cooperate with Authorities:

   • Provide a Statement: When the police arrive, provide them with a detailed account of the accident. Mention any signs of intoxication you observed in the other driver.
   • Request a Report: Ask for the police report number and details on how to obtain a copy later.

6. Seek Medical Attention:

   • Get Checked Out: Even if you feel fine, it is wise to get a medical evaluation, as some injuries might not be immediately apparent.

7. Notify Your Insurance Company:

   • Report the Accident: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the incident. Provide them with all the necessary details, including the police report number.

8. Consult with a Lawyer:

   • Legal Advice: If the accident involved significant damage or injury, or if the drunk driver was arrested, it may be beneficial to consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and options.

9. Document Everything:

   • Keep Records: Maintain a file with all documents related to the accident, including medical records, medical bills, emergency room instructions, towing invoices, repair estimates, car rental invoice, and communication with insurance companies and law enforcement. You will likely receive mailings and emails from lawyers who run PI mills. These lawyers for the most part have volume practices and focus on volume; not value. You will have to decide if you want a lawyer whose interests are in volume rather than just doing a good job.

Taking these steps will help protect your safety and legal rights in the aftermath of an accident involving a drunk driver. Next, I will discuss how relatives, the spouse or friends should deal with a drunk driver accident when one of the drivers or passengers dies in the accident.

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The Lombardi Law Firm is a personal injury firm with a long history of recovering substantial sums while caring about our client’s future. If you have questions about your legal options, or would like to just talk with a lawyer, call the Lombardi Law Firm. There is no charge to talk with us. If we take your case, you will not be charged unless there is a recovery. 1-515-222-1110