Getting hit by a drunk driver in Atlanta, Ga or South Fulton can change your life in an instant. One minute you’re on your way to work and then suddenly you’re hurt and having to deal with police officers, doctors, insurance adjusters, and Atlanta injury attorneys.
In the moments following a drunk driving accident, you’ll probably feel confused and angry. Try to remain as calm as you can and take the following steps to protect yourself and prepare for a potential car accident claim or lawsuit.
Call 911
Nothing is more important than your physical and mental health. If you or anyone else involved in the accident is injured, call 911 right away. You’ll get the medical treatment you need and have documentation of your injuries and treatment-related expenses.
Call the Police
Call the police too. An officer will speak to everyone involved in the accident and write a police report. Calling the police is essential when you suspect that you’ve been hit by a drunk driver. A police officer can have the driver complete a field sobriety test.
The officer’s observations at the scene can be used against the driver in civil and criminal court.
Exchange Insurance and Contact Information
Ask the police to help you exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. You’ll want to get the driver’s full name, driver’s license number, license plate number, and car insurance details.
Document the Scene
After an accident, if you’re healthy, it’s a good idea to get the names and numbers of people who witnessed the accident. You should also take pictures of the scene, including all vehicles involved in the accident, street signs, traffic signals, and lighting conditions.
But take care not to interfere with the police investigation. The scene of a DUI accident is the scene of a potentially serious crime. DUIs involving personal injury, brain damage, or wrongful death, are typically charged as felonies. You’ll be able to use the information that an investigating officer gathers in your own insurance claim or lawsuit.
Talk to a Lawyer
DUI accidents are often serious and complex with criminal and civil consequences. An accident attorney in Atlanta, Cartersville, and surrounding areas such as The Law Offices Of Cory J Lynch in Atlanta, GA can help you figure out how much compensation you’re entitled to and then help you get it.
