What to Do After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver

Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, leaving victims physically injured and emotionally shaken. It becomes even more devastating when the accident is caused by a drunk driver. Drunk driving accidents are preventable tragedies that not only impact the lives of the victims and their families, but also pose a significant risk to the safety of our communities. Despite efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence, these incidents continue to occur far too often.

If you or a loved one have been involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver, contact The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000. Our team of personal injury lawyers are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable for their actions and helping our clients get the compensation they deserve for injuries and damages. Contact us today for a FREE case evaluation.

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Drunk Driving Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 37 people die in drunk driving crashes every day in the United States, resulting in over 13,000 preventable deaths each year. Driving under the influence is illegal in all 50 states, yet about 31% of traffic crash fatalities involve drunk drivers in the United States.

How Does Alcohol Affect Drivers?

Alcohol affects drivers in numerous ways, all of which contribute to impaired driving and an increased risk of accidents. Some of the key effects alcohol has on drivers include:

Impaired judgment. Alcohol affects a person’s ability to make sound decisions, leading to risky behaviors on the road.
Reduced coordination. Alcohol slows down reaction times and impairs motor skills and coordination This can lead to difficulty controlling the vehicle and reacting appropriately to changes in traffic conditions.
Decreased concentration. Drunk drivers may become easily distracted, have difficulty maintaining focus on the road, or fail to notice important traffic signs, signals, or hazards.
Impaired vision. Alcohol affects depth perception, peripheral vision, and the ability to judge distances accurately, making it challenging for drivers to recognize and react to objects or obstacles on the road.
Drowsiness and fatigue. Alcohol can make a driver feel sleepy, reducing alertness and increasing the risk of falling asleep at the wheel, which is extremely dangerous.
Overconfidence and risk-taking. Alcohol can lead to a false sense of confidence and an increased willingness to take risks. This can result in reckless driving behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, or making aggressive maneuvers on the road.

It’s important to note that even small amounts of alcohol can impair driving abilities. Driving under the influence poses a significant threat to the driver, passengers, and others on the road. If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident by a drunk or impaired driver, call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation.

What To Do After Being Hit By a Drunk Driver

If you have been involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver, it’s essential to prioritize your safety and take appropriate steps to protect your well-being and legal rights. Here’s what you should do after being hit by a drunk driver:

Contact the Authorities. Call the police to report the accident and request emergency medical services. Inform them that you suspect the other driver is under the influence of alcohol.
Gather Information. Collect important information from the scene of the accident. Obtain the drunk driver’s contact details and insurance information. If there are witnesses present, ask for their names, and contact information as well.
Document the Scene. Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, injuries, and any other relevant details. This evidence can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Don’t Confront the Other Driver. While it’s understandable to feel angry or upset, it’s important not to confront or engage with the drunk driver directly. Maintain your composure and focus on gathering information and ensuring your safety.
Seek Medical Attention. Even if you don’t think you are injured, it’s important to seek medical evaluation after an accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not show immediate symptoms and a doctor can help identify and treat these injuries.
Consult an Attorney. After seeking medical attention, consult with a personal injury attorney at The Barnes Firm. Our attorneys are experienced in handling cases involving drunk driving accidents and can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you seek compensation for damages, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident with a drunk driver, contact The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE initial consultation.

What Compensation Can I Receive if I Was Hit by a Drunk Driver?

The compensation you can receive for being hit by a drunk driver will depend on the circumstances of the accident and the severity of your injuries. After an accident, our attorneys may be able to help you recover compensation for:

Medical expenses
Lost wages
Property damage
Pain and suffering
Rehabilitation and therapy
And more…

When you hire The Barnes Firm, our team of personal injury attorneys will assess your situation, evaluate the damages you may be entitled to, and guide you through the legal process to help you get the best result possible.

Get The Barnes Firm in Your Corner

If you or a loved one have been injured by a drunk driver, you should not have to pay for your own damages. At The Barnes Firm, our team of personal injury lawyers are dedicated to holding drunk drivers responsible for their actions. From the first phone conversation, through to the final settlement, our attorneys will work hard for you every step of the way.

Call us today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation.

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