Drunk driving is a huge issue in the Las Vegas area and beyond. Throughout 2021, Metro has made an average of 15 DUI arrests every day. Meanwhile, deadly crashes are also on the rise. We understand the impact of drunk driving accidents here at Vegas Valley.
Unfortunately, while you may behave responsibly, the same won’t necessarily be true of others who share the road with you. As such, it’s important to be prepared for every possible scenario — including the very real possibility of being hit by a drunk driver.
How you respond in the first few minutes, hours, and days after following a collision with a drunk driver could determine whether you’re able to get compensation for your suffering. To help, we’ve highlighted what happens after drunk driving accident from both the driver and the victim’s perspective. Follow these steps to stay safe and improve to outcome for your potential personal injury case:
Emphasize Personal Safety and Security
It’s natural to feel panicked after a crash, but calm action is required at this critical time. First, call 911 to get law enforcement officials involved as quickly as possible. If you or somebody else is injured, consider getting an ambulance on the scene as well.
When necessary, take extra steps to keep the scene safe as you await emergency personnel. Depending on the situation, this could mean moving your vehicle out of oncoming traffic or turning off the ignition to avoid fires. Keep in mind that, if the other driver is intoxicated, this person cannot be depended on to keep the scene of the accident safe or secure.
Seek Medical Attention
As you ponder what happens after drunk driving accident situations, you might think about the involvement of law enforcement officials or insurance companies. Don’t forget, however, that it’s important to address any injuries you may have suffered as a result of the crash. These may not initially seem serious, but remember: injuries that appear to be minor at the scene of the accident can cause considerable suffering later on.
Don’t hesitate to visit a hospital or clinic to get checked out. This will serve a dual purpose: receiving medical treatments, if necessary, and documenting your condition. Official documentation is essential, as it could demonstrate the severity of your injuries or be called upon to verify your need for compensation.
Get In Touch With a Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyer
Before you discuss your situation with police officers or insurance representatives, contact a trusted Las Vegas car accident lawyer. This is important even if you do not think you are at fault.
Regardless of your role in the crash, anything you say could potentially be used against you later on. The right attorney, however, can provide guidance as you move forward with an otherwise complicated process. Ideally, your attorney will have experience with cases involving drunk driving accidents — especially from the victim’s perspective.
What Happens to the Drunk Driver?
As you proceed with the personal injury process, it helps to know how the other driver involved in your case might fare. Assuming you’ve been injured, chances are that the other driver will not find it easy to secure release from jail. A lot depends, however, on whether this is the driver’s first offense.
In general, license suspension can be expected. This may eventually be followed by additional penalties ranging from probation to fines and even significant time in jail.
In addition to facing criminal charges, the intoxicated driver may be involved in a civil case. This is where you — the injured party — come into play. If the other driver is represented by a Nevada DUI lawyer, the personal injury process may involve collecting evidence, conducting depositions, or, eventually, appearing in court. As the victim, however, your goal is to secure maximum compensation, as the drunk driver’s negligence has caused you to suffer.
Vegas Valley Injury Law: Legal Help After Drunk Driving Accidents
Were you harmed in a drunk driving accident? Strong legal representation can make all the difference during this difficult time. Vegas Valley Injury Law can help you get the damages you deserve. Contact us today to get started.
Leave a Reply