If you’ve been involved in an accident with someone who is under the influence of drugs and alcohol, then you know that it can be difficult to get anything done about your vehicle or compensation for your medical bills. A car accident lawyer can file the proper claims to help get you the compensation you may deserve. There are a few tips for dealing with drivers who are under the influence that you want to keep in mind.
Car accidents are far more likely to occur when a driver is under the influence of these substances while on the road. However, try to treat the accident like any other but know that the other driver will probably be going to jail because of being under the influence. Avoid confrontation or making accusations to the other driver. You should instead share your concerns with the police when they arrive.
Contact the Police
The first thing that you should do is contact the police and other emergency assistance. If you’re unable to call, then someone else at the scene will likely call for help. Let the officers take over as much as possible when there is a drunk driver involved in the accident. Don’t try to exchange information because you don’t know how the person will respond.
It’s common to be angry and upset about the accident. However, if you decide to show those feelings while officers are on the scene or around other people, then there is a possibility that you may be charged as well. Try to remain as calm as possible while the officers are getting your information and trying to piece together what happened.
Take Photos
While you’re waiting for the okay to leave the scene, take photos and make notes about the accident. Write down everything that you remember. You can also talk to some of the people in your vehicle or who saw the accident to find out what they remember. This information can be given to an attorney. You also want to keep any police reports or medical statements as these can show the extent of what happened in the accident. Take pictures of the accident before any of the vehicles are moved. If the other driver decides to flee the scene before help arrives, try to make notes about the description of the vehicle and driver to give to police. Store phone numbers in your cell phone so that you can contact people again if needed or so that an attorney can contact them to get a statement. You may also make notes about what the other driver said to you especially if the person talks about drinking or using drugs while driving.
Call Us
Contact an auto accident attorney as soon as possible. Give all the information that you have to the attorney so that your case can be processed and any claims filed against the other driver. If any medical expenses or other issues arise, give the information to the attorney to handle. Avoid going to court alone because it will usually be your word against the other driver’s if you don’t have any kind of evidence for your case. The attorney can negotiate to get you the compensation that you deserve after the accident.
Call our law offices today at any of our convenient locations and get a free consultation.
Arlington (817) 522-4451
Denton (940) 222-4060
Dallas (972) 362-6848
Fort Worth (817) 764-1375
Cedar Hill (972) 338-9427
McKinney (469) 522-3688
Lewisville (972) 354-4605
You can also contact us online by using our quick contact form.
