Getting into a car accident with a drunk driver can indeed be shocking. However, if you plan to file an accident claim, it is important to remain calm and do what is necessary to ensure your compensation. Here are the steps you should take after a car accident with a drunk driver.
Contact the Police
If you were involved in a car accident with a drunk driver, it is important to notify the police immediately. They will come to the scene of the accident and file a police report. The report will include information about the accident, such as where it occurred and the names of everyone involved, so be sure to get a copy for your records.
Take Photos of the Accident Scene
If you are not too badly injured, take a few photos of the accident scene with your smartphone camera. Capture shots of all the vehicles involved in the car accident, skid marks on the road and traffic signals.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after the car accident, it is still a good idea to get checked out by a doctor. Sometimes the adrenaline you feel after an accident can mask pain. A doctor will conduct a physical exam and may order tests to properly diagnose your injuries. Then, he or she will recommend the appropriate treatment.
Be Careful When Communicating with the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
If the at-fault driver’s insurance company tries to contact you, be extra cautious about what you say. You do not want to accidentally say something that could devalue your claim. Only tell the insurer basic information, such as when and where the accident occurred. Never provide a recorded statement.
Write in a Journal
While the accident is still fresh in your mind, write everything you remember in a journal. No detail is too small. For example, if you remember the other drivers swerving all over the road before the accident, you should jot that information down.
Hire a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Filing a personal injury claim can be a complex endeavor, so you want someone knowledgeable and experienced on your side. A drunk driving accident lawyer, like one from The Lynch Group, will know the true value of your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.