Drunk driving is still shockingly prevalent. In fact, 2016 saw 10,265 people die on roadways due to alcohol-related crashes.
Everyone hopes to never have to contend with a person driving under the influence. In the event a collision like this does occur, then the injured party needs to take action. The injured person’s vehicle may have been damaged or totaled, and bodily injuries may have occurred. Either way, the injured person should seek the aid of a personal injury attorney.
Seek medical attention
A person’s well-being is of the utmost importance after an alcohol-induced incident. The person should contact an ambulance and the police. Similarly to any other automobile accident, the two parties should exchange insurance and contact information. When the police arrive, they will most likely arrest the inebriated driver. The ambulance will take the person hurt to the hospital.
One important thing to keep in mind is that the drunk driver will face criminal charges for operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol. However, the other party will need to file a separate personal injury claim try to receive damages.
File a lawsuit
Once the injured party addresses any injuries, the personal injury attorney can begin going over options. In many instances, personal injury lawsuits come down to negligence. This can be difficult to prove under many circumstances. However, if a drunk driver is arrested, then that makes the case easier. This does not automatically mean the injured person will win. It simply means it is much easier for the attorney to establish that the drunk driver exhibited extreme levels of negligence by choosing to operate a car while drunk.
Far too many people end up being the victims of the actions of drunk drivers every year. Damages should always be sought so that the injured person can attempt to receive some form of compensation for injuries, damages and hardship.
