Drunk driving results in the death and injury of thousands of people every year. According to the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3 out of every 10 Americans will be involved in an alcohol-related accident at some point in their lives. Drunk driving is a crime in every state in the US, so there will be legal repercussions. If you are injured in a drunk driving accident, you should contact one of Utah’s top accident lawyer and do the following:
Call the Authorities
If you are conscious and able to move after a drunk driving accident, you should call 911 as soon as possible. The most important thing is for you and anyone else involved in the crash to receive immediate medical attention.
When the authorities get the call, they will immediately send Emergency Medical Services. (EMS) and the police. If your injuries are mild, you can receive first aid in the ambulance at the scene. However, it is best to go to the hospital even if you do not think you are hurt.
The police will write a report about the accident, which could be crucial to your personal injury claim. They will also perform a breathalyzer test or blood alcohol test, and the results will be a crucial piece of evidence for your claim.
Document The Scene of The Accident
If you do not sustain severe injuries as a result of the drunk driving accident, you should document the accident scene. Therefore, you should check your phone to see if it is still functional, and if not, borrow one.
Take pictures and videos of the scene of the accident from as many angles as possible. Document the state of the vehicles involved in the accident, street signs, traffic signals, and damage to objects.
Witness statements are crucial, so get the name and contact information of the accident’s witnesses. The accident scene is also a crime scene, so document it without interfering with the police investigations.
Exchange Insurance Information
It is best to exchange insurance and contact information with anyone else involved in the drunk driving accident. Doing so can be challenging when dealing with an inebriated driver so you may check the vehicle’s insurance sticker.
If the driver is okay, ensure you get their full name, insurance provider, phone number, and other relevant contact information.
Contact A Lawyer
Drunk driving accidents are typically gruesome and have severe legal consequences. If you were not at fault for the accident, you can pursue compensation for many types of damages from the guilty party, including vehicle repairs, medical expenses, lost wages, or income-generating capacity.
A lawyer offers you the best chance to receive compensation, especially if you file a civil suit and it goes to court. A Utah personal injury attorney will have the experience and legal expertise to get you adequate compensation.
Use the tips above if you are ever involved in a drunk driving accident. Call a Utah personal injury lawyer as soon as possible for legal assistance.