Being involved in any automobile accident is a serious matter, something which can often be a traumatic, life-changing event. When someone is hit by a drunk driver, the situation is typically more serious, because collisions with drunk drivers tend to be particularly damaging. If you’re ever involved in a collision incident with a drunk driver, there are steps you need to take to ensure you have the best chance at recovering the financial assistance you deserve.
In this post, we will highlight three essential steps motorists should take whenever they are involved in a collision with a drunk driver in Atlanta.
1) Gather Relevant Evidence at the Scene of the Incident
The scene of the incident is a trove of potential evidence which may be used in a future case to recovery financial assistance. If you’ve ever watched a crime investigation television show, you may be familiar with one of the main precepts given by detectives, which is to avoid “disturbing” a crime scene for fear of contaminating valuable evidence. In general, this is how you should approach the scene of your collision, although obviously you will need to be sure to place yourself and your vehicle out of harm’s way first and foremost.
Before the drunk driver takes off, be sure to take photographs of both your vehicle and the other vehicle, from as many angles as is practicable. In addition, take photographs of yourself, as well as the other motorist, and also photographs of the surrounding environment. You want to have adequate photographic evidence of the scene of the collision, so that you may provide such evidence as is necessary later on.
2) Seek Medical Attention When Necessary / Document Everything
One of the other essential steps to take in this scenario is to seek medical attention (as is needed), and then document all medical related findings and information. When paramedics arrive and give medical assistance, be sure to request copies of all the medical records which are taken. For instance, paramedics (or other medical professionals) may take photographs of injuries, provide pain medication, or perform other services; you sure be sure to request copies of any photographs, and document all services provided to you. These things may be highly relevant later on when you attempt to recover financial assistance. Be sure to obtain copies of all documents which show the cost for medical services as well.
3) Speak with Police but Be Careful with Your Communication
The other step to take after being struck by a drunk motorist is to speak with police but be very mindful of your communication with them. The police will ask you to provide a verbal record of the events that unfolded, as seen through your eyes; although it’s important to give an account of what occurred, it’s also critical to be careful with how you report the events. You want to be fully honest, but you should avoid speculation regarding aspects which are not clear to you. When you begin dealing with financial recovery, speculation on events typically ends up being a negative factor, because speculation can be easily misconstrued and misused for the wrong purposes on the other side. Give an honest and straightforward account of what happened, in as few words as possible, and request a copy of the record.
These are just three essential steps that you should take after suffering a hit by a drunk driver. There are other steps involved in the recovery process, but these are undoubtedly among the most critical. One of the other steps is to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney in Atlanta.
Contact the Ted Law Firm for More Information
The Ted Law Firm is dedicated to assisting clients deal with the complexities of recovering in personal injury cases. As our team knows, navigating the legal system is far from easy, which is why we bring substantial value to our clients with reliable counsel. To learn more, speak to one of our Atlanta Car Accident Lawyers today by calling 888-333-5555.
Attorney Ted Sink, founder of The Ted Law Firm, is a Yale, Stanford Business School, and Charleston School of Law graduate and former marketing executive who built a 7-figure law practice, earning millions for his clients. With experience in both law and advertising, Ted has been recognized in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and the ABA Journal. He speaks at industry conferences on marketing and law firm management, sharing insights from his unique background to help other firms grow. When not working, Ted enjoys traveling, diving, and dog-sitting golden retrievers.
