If I am the Victim of a Drunk Driving Accident in CA, What Should I Do?

Though there are clever slogans to serve as a reminder that drinking and driving is never a good idea, many people still get behind the wheel after having one too many drinks. Unfortunately, despite taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself, being struck by an intoxicated driver can have severe impacts on your life. Protecting your rights as a victim of a drunk driving accident is critical. The following blog explores the steps you should take if you have been a victim of a drunk driving accident and why you should contact Irvine auto accident lawyers.

What Should I Do if I Believe the Driver Who Hit Me Is Intoxicated?

If you have reason to believe the driver responsible for the collision you are the victim of is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you should immediately contact the police and avoid interacting with the individual. Though you typically would exchange insurance information while waiting for the police to arrive at the accident scene, a drunk or high driver may become belligerent and violent. As such, you should remain in your vehicle and call emergency services. You should inform the operator of the circumstances and follow their instructions until the police arrive.

When the police arrive, they can help you exchange information with the other party to ensure you safely receive any needed information. Once you have those details, you should take photos and videos of the accident scene, if you are physically able to. You will want to capture the damage to both vehicles, injuries you endured, and any additional factors like road conditions or other damaged property nearby.

It is also in your best interest to seek medical attention for any injuries you endured as soon as possible. Failure to seek care can be held against you by an insurance company to make it seem as though the injuries were not as severe as you claim.

What Are My Rights If I Am a Victim of Drunk Driving in California?

If you are the victim of a drunk driving accident, it is important to understand that you are within your rights to file a lawsuit for the damages you have sustained as a result of the defendant’s decision to drive under the influence.

Also, the other driver being convicted of driving while intoxicated is very helpful in settlement negotiations and litigation. However, it is not uncommon for the defendant to attempt to dispute the claim that your injuries were caused by their actions. They may argue that the accident was not a result of their impairment or that the injuries you sustained were not caused by the collision. As such, it is still in your best interest to obtain legal representation to help negate these claims.

When you sustain injuries because someone else was driving while intoxicated, connecting with an attorney is critical. Unfortunately, navigating the legal process while healing from the injuries you endured can be overwhelming. That is why you should have the team at California Personal Injury Law Firm, APC fight for you. Contact us today to discuss your options moving forward.