What Should I Do if I’ve Been Injured in a Drunk Driving Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident, you should seek medical attention immediately. Call the police and, if possible, gather evidence from the accident scene, such as the other driver’s contact and insurance information, pictures of the damaged vehicles, and eyewitness contact information. 

Then, consult a Florida car accident lawyer who can help you seek compensation. You can file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit to recover awards for your injuries and losses. A lawyer can handle the legal process while you focus on your health and physical recovery. 

Immediate Steps to Take After Being Injured from a Drunk Driver

If you’ve suffered injuries from a drunk driver, taking the right steps immediately can help you remain safe and seek compensation down the line. First, ensure your safety and the safety of others. Call 911 and request an ambulance. 

If you can, move to a safe location away from traffic. Law enforcement will arrive to investigate and document the scene. While waiting for the police, check for injuries among yourself and others involved. If anyone is injured, do not attempt to provide medical assistance unless you are trained to do so. 

When the police arrive, provide them with accurate information about the incident but avoid admitting fault. Take a look at other steps you can take after your immediate safety is ensured. A Florida personal injury lawyer can help you build a case for fair compensation.

Document the Incident

Gathering evidence at the scene is ideal if you can do so. Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs. Obtain contact information from witnesses who can corroborate your account of the accident.

Request a copy of the police report, as this document will be vital for your insurance claim and any potential legal actions. Additionally, keep a record of all medical treatments you receive. Documenting your injuries and treatment will help establish the extent of your damages.

Report the Accident

After ensuring everyone’s safety, you must report the accident to your insurance company and the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Provide your insurer with all necessary information, including the police report number and details about the drunk driver.

When communicating with your insurance company, be honest but stick to the facts. Avoid discussing fault or liability, as these discussions can complicate your claim. The police report will provide an objective account of the accident, which will help clarify the situation.

Prioritize Your Health and Follow Through With Your Treatment Plan

Regardless of whether you feel fine, seek medical attention after an accident. Even if you did not require emergency medical attention, follow up with a doctor. Injuries from drunk driving accidents, such as whiplash, can manifest hours or even days later. A doctor can identify and treat your injuries, reducing the risk of complications.

Keep all medical records, bills, and documentation related to your treatment. This information will be vital for your personal injury claim. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for follow-up care and rehabilitation, as this demonstrates your commitment to recovery and will also support your case for compensation.

By taking these immediate steps, you can support your claim for compensation. A Florida drunk driving car accident attorney can use your medical records to demonstrate negligence and the extent of your damages.

How a Lawyer Can Help if You’ve Been Injured in a Drunk Driving Accident

Florida is a no-fault state, meaning you typically file an insurance claim through your own provider. In cases of severe injury, which is typical for drunk driving accidents, you can file a third-party liability claim or lawsuit if you meet the serious injury threshold. 

Either way, you have the right to retain legal counsel as you seek compensation. A Florida car accident attorney can assist you by:

• Explaining your rights: A lawyer can review your legal options and help you file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit to seek maximum compensation.
• Investigating and gathering evidence: After conducting a thorough investigation, an attorney can gather crucial evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records to build a strong case.
• Dealing with insurance companies: A law firm can handle all communications with insurance companies, negotiating on your behalf to secure a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages.
• Calculating damages: A legal team can assess all aspects of your injuries and losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs, ensuring your claim is comprehensive.
• Meeting your legal deadline: An attorney can help you file a personal injury lawsuit before the two-year deadline established in Florida Statutes § 95.11(4). 
• Representing you in a trial: If necessary, a lawyer can represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to support your claim for damages.

By working with a Florida car accident lawyer, you can seek both justice and fair financial recovery for your economic and non-economic losses. A lawyer can help you hold a negligent driver accountable. 

Compensation You Can Pursue if You Were Injured from a Drunk Driver

If you were injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, your injuries may warrant various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses: An attorney can seek coverage for all medical bills related to your injuries, including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost wages: Your injuries may warrant compensation for income lost due to your inability to work during recovery, including any future earning potential if your injuries affect your job.
• Pain and suffering: This refers to damages for the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident, reflecting the impact on your quality of life.
• Property damage: A lawyer can seek reimbursement for the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal belongings damaged in the accident.
• Costs of future care: You may qualify for compensation for any anticipated future medical expenses or ongoing care needs stemming from your injuries.

By pursuing these types of compensation, you can help alleviate the financial burdens caused by the accident and focus on your recovery.

Call Us to Learn More About What You Should Do if You’ve Been Injured in a Drunk Driving Accident

If you’re wondering what you should do after being injured by a drunk driver, prioritize your safety and the safety of others by calling 911 immediately. Once you have received medical care, it’s time to start building a case against the negligent driver. 

You deserve fair compensation to help you access the medical treatment you need and recover your losses. The Florida drunk driving accident lawyers with The Schiller Kessler Group are here to help. With over three decades of experience, our lawyers are dedicated to helping accident victims and their families. Call us now for a free initial consultation.