Do I Need to File a Third-Party Injury Claim after a Drunk Driver Hits Me?

One of the most dangerous things you can be exposed to as a driver is another driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It doesn’t matter how safe you are driving or how adherent you are to the laws of the road; a drunk driver can come from anywhere, at any time, and cause serious damage to your property and your body. If you have been injured by a drunk driver, you may wonder what legal recourse you have to cover your damages. Here is a short primer of what to do if you are struck by a drunk driver.

1. First things first, take care of your health. Seek medical attention even if you do not believe you have been seriously injured. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injury or soft tissue injuries, may not manifest right away.
2. Document every aspect of the accident. Police will likely take care of much of this process, but having your own evidence is crucial to your claim. Photographs of the damage and your injuries, as well as contact information of witnesses, can go a long way in helping you secure damages.
3. You will probably receive a call from the drunk driver’s insurance company shortly after your accident. No matter how cordial or sympathetic the representative is, the bottom line is that he or she is trying to get information out of you that might make it harder to pursue your claim. Do not tell them anything about the accident or your injuries. If you are offered a settlement, you should decline until you have spoken to an attorney.
4. Perhaps the most important step – contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible. You need a trusted lawyer with experience in the field of drunk driving accidents to help you receive the best recovery possible.