Drunk driving awareness campaigns have been used since the 1980s to try to curb drunk driving and drunk driving is illegal in Florida. Despite this, many motorists still make the choice to get into their car after drinking. Unfortunately, they often hurt innocent people.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident in Homestead, FL, or surrounding areas, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. The steps you take after being injured, however, will make a big impact on your ability to seek financial recovery.
What To Do After a Car Accident Involving a Drunk Driver in Hollywood
Here’s what you’ll want to do:
- Call 911. Report the incident, including your suspicion that the driver is under the influence. Police can ensure that driver doesn’t continue to put others at risk and can test him or her for blood alcohol level. Calling 911 is also important if anyone at the scene is injured and needs emergency help.
- Get medical attention. Even if you think your injuries are minor, get a full medical evaluation as soon as you can after the collision. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away, but could worsen over time or lead to complications. Getting proper medical care can also help document your injuries and link them to the accident.
- Gather evidence. If you can, take photos or videos of the scene, the vehicles, the injuries, and any other relevant details. Get the names and contact information of the other driver, any witnesses, and the police officers who responded to the accident. Keep copies of any medical records, bills, receipts, or other documents related to your accident and injuries. If you’re in doubt about what evidence to keep, keep as much as you can. It can all be useful.
- Contact an experienced attorney. Contact a personal injury lawyer who has experience handling drunk driving cases. A lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and deal with the insurance companies on your behalf. A lawyer can also help you determine the full extent of your damages and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
Being injured in a drunk driving accident is scary. It’s also frustrating, because these crashes are entirely preventable. While the justice system may press criminal charges against the drunk driver, you may still want to pursue a civil claim.
A civil lawsuit helps you hold the drunk driver accountable for their actions and lets you seek punitive damages if applicable. It helps you get financial recovery so you don’t have to pay your injury and car repair costs out of pocket. Regardless of the outcome of the drunk driver’s criminal case, a civil case is your chance to seek justice and compensation.
At Flaxman Law Group, we have over 60 years of combined experience. If you have been injured in a drunk driving accident in Homestead, FL, don’t hesitate to contact us today for a free accident consultation. Our offices in Homestead, Miami, and Hollywood are here to help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.