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Donald Colvin, Esq

4 Steps To Take If You’re Injured In A Drunk Driving Accident

A car accident can be an extremely terrifying experience. It can be even more unnerving if it involves a drunk driver. Drunk drivers rarely observe safety, the rules of the road, and a duty of care to others. Unfortunately, when a driver is intoxicated, the consequences can be catastrophic. Accidents arising from drunk driving often result in severe injuries and sometimes death. As frightening as a drunk driving accident may be, it is important to remember that accident victims have rights and legal options. There are also steps that you can take to help make your accident case stronger against the at-fault party.

After a drunk driving accident, the following steps should be taken:

  • Notify The Authorities: When an accident occurs, the authorities should be notified right away. Once at the scene of the accident, the authorities will draft a police report and document the details of the incident. A police report can be helpful during the investigation process, to establish fault, to aid against opposing arguments, and to demonstrate that the at-fault driver was arrested for drunk driving.
  • Gather Information: If you are able to gather information while at that scene, it can significantly help your case and auto accident attorney. Taking photos and videos of the scene, property damage, injuries, road conditions, and people involved can help demonstrate the severity of the impact and injuries. Equally important are witnesses. If there are witnesses, be sure to gather their names and contact information. Witnesses can provide valuable details and testimony.
  • Seek Medical Attention: Seeking medical attention after a drunk driving accident is paramount. As mentioned, drunk driving accidents usually result in serious injuries. And so, it is essential to get evaluated by a medical professional immediately after an accident. Some injuries, even life-threatening injuries, may not be apparent until a person gets examined by a doctor or paramedic. Moreover, it is necessary to get all medical treatments documented to show the extent of the injuries for compensation purposes.
  • Hire A Vehicular Accident Law Attorney: Recruiting the assistance of a vehicular accident law attorney is highly advised. Even if the other party is entirely at fault for causing an accident, it is not safe to assume that you will receive the maximum amount of compensation that you are entitled to. Insurance companies will always try to diminish a claim and pay as little as possible. Car accident lawyers know how to defend against insurance companies’ unscrupulous methods and arguments. Statistics show that people who are represented by auto accident attorneys have a much higher chance of collecting a larger compensation package.
    If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, it is imperative to enlist the legal assistance of a vehicular accident law attorney. An experienced auto accident attorney can help you understand your rights and legal recourses. During a difficult time, it is not recommended to handle your own case without professional guidance or representation. Even if the other party is clearly at fault for the accident, it can still be challenging to collect adequate and fair compensation. This is where skilled car accident lawyers shine. An auto accident attorney can oversee the entire process and make sure that you obtain justice and the compensation you deserve.

At Colvin Accident Lawyers, our car accident lawyers are committed to helping clients recover optimal compensation for losses and damages in their accident cases. Our firm proudly serves Bakersfield, CA and surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.