What Do I Do After Being Involved in a Drunk Driving Accident in Fort Lauderdale?
DUI (driving under the influence) is a serious concern across most states in the United States, and Florida is no exception. There’s not only a heightened risk of injury and death due to impaired driving, but also legal consequences when you’re convicted. These situations are out of control but can be very dangerous. If you’re a victim of this unfortunate situation, it’s essential to know the next steps you should take to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Prioritize your Personal Safety
Starting with the most important aspect of the incident, your health and safety should always come first. Check to see whether your passengers and the occupants of the other vehicle are okay. If anyone involved is injured, contact emergency services right away. Where possible, move your vehicle to a secure location, away from traffic, turn on your hazard lights, and use warning triangles or cones to signal other oncoming motorists. It’s best to make sure that you are in a safe position before you do anything else.
Contact the Police
This is an important step because the police will be able to investigate the accident and determine whether any of the drivers involved were intoxicated. Depending on their findings, the at-fault party may face criminal charges and civil liability for damages. The police will also issue a report that can be used as evidence when pursuing a personal injury claim against the liable party. That report will have important evidence that is necessary for your case. Make sure your accident is completely on record.
Collect Evidence and Document the Scene
When a drunk driver is involved, victims may be able to seek additional compensation for their damages. As part of the litigation process, you need to produce evidence that can be used to support your claim. This could include taking photos of the accident scene, collecting witness statements, and filing a police report. Additionally, make sure to document all injuries, as well as request and obtain copies of any medical bills and reports from the accident. This will help build a solid case and this is information that a legal professional will need to review before they can move forward.
Engage your Insurers
Whether you were the one to blame for the incident, or the other party was at fault, you should contact your insurance company. Florida is a no-fault state, so all drivers are required to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. This policy should be able to cover some if not all of your medical bills and other associated costs. Your property damage liability (PDL) coverage may also be applicable in certain cases. It’s important to receive compensation that you are rightly deserved to help you not stress about financials.
Speak to an Experienced Attorney
DUI accidents will often have far-reaching legal consequences. If you feel that the other driver was reckless or negligent due to their intoxication, then you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Additionally, if you’ve maxed out your insurance policies, an attorney can help you recover additional compensation from the at-fault driver insurer. Ideally, working with an attorney right from the start is the best way to ensure that your rights remain protected throughout the process. They’ll be able to help you navigate the complexities of the law by offering professional advice and guidance.
Conclusion
Ultimately, taking the right steps after a drunk driving accident could make all the difference in your ability to recover the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been involved in a DUI accident, make sure to prioritize your safety, document and collect evidence, engage your insurers, and contact an experienced attorney. Doing so will help to protect your rights and provide you with a better chance of success should you pursue a personal injury claim. Having all the information and taking care of yourself will help you in the long run.
