Every two minutes a person is injured in an auto accident related to alcohol intoxication. These numbers increase significantly at night, on the weekends and especially during the holiday season when people are traveling back and forth to various holiday parties and events. It is a situation that absolutely nobody should have to go through, but one that is all too common just the same.
It is such a pressing issue that it is always important to look at the situation from the perspective of the person who matters most of all: the victims.
The Victim’s Perspective of Drunk Driving Accidents: What You Need to Know
For a victim, the immediate aftermath of a drunk driving accident is of critical importance. Victims should call the police to make sure the accident is properly documented, and they should seek fast medical attention if it is necessary. If other parties – including the offending driver – have been injured, you need to call 911 right away.
Calling the police is particularly important in the event of an accident involving drunk driving, as the incident needs to be documented in a way you can prove you were not at fault for the accident. Likewise, you will need proof the driver who hit you was intoxicated when it comes time to file your insurance claim.
Next, victims should collect as much evidence as possible about all of the damages they have sustained – both in terms of physical damage to their car as well as emotional stress, injuries and more. If you can, take photographs of the area and make sure everything is documented. Keep a record of any financial losses you are forced to deal with, including lost wages.
But above all else, never forget that in a drunk driving accident, the driver is going to be subject to both criminal and civil penalties. Any and all evidence you collect will go a long way towards making sure you are fairly compensated. It will be necessary to enlist the help of an attorney who will fight for the fair compensation and ideal outcome you deserve.
Contact Harshbarger Law Today
At Harshbarger Law, we understand that getting hit by a drunk driver is an incredibly unfortunate and harrowing experience. We believe it is something nobody should have to go through, which is a large part of why we have dedicated ourselves to offering the best and most efficient representation possible to victims all across San Bernardino and the surrounding areas.
If you or a loved one has been hit by a drunk driver and are in need of information about what to do next, please do not hesitate to contact Harshbarger Law today.