If you or a loved one has been the victim of a drunk driver, you know how devastating the experience can be. In addition to the emotional trauma, you may also be dealing with serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment and may prevent you from being able to work or take part in your usual activities. The good news is that you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, and an experienced personal injury attorney can help you recover the maximum amount of damages possible.
There are a few things to keep in mind if you’ve been hit by a drunk driver and are considering taking legal action. First, it’s important to know that you have a limited time to file a claim, known as the statute of limitations. In most states, you must file a personal injury lawsuit within two years of the date of the accident. If you wait too long to file, you may be barred from recovering any compensation at all.
Second, it’s important to gather as much evidence as possible to support your claim. This may include medical records, police reports, witness statements, and anything else that can show that the other driver was at fault. An experienced attorney will know how to build a strong case and maximize your compensation.
Third, you should be aware that drunk driving accidents can be complex legal cases. The other driver may try to deny that they were at fault, or their insurance company may try to lowball you on your settlement. Having an attorney on your side will help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
Steps to take after an accident
- Seek medical attention – Your health and safety should be your top priority after an accident. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s important to see a doctor or go to the emergency room to get checked out. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not present themselves until days or weeks after the accident.
- Gather evidence – It’s important to collect as much evidence as possible to support your claim. This may include photos of the scene of the accident, medical records, witness statements, and anything else that can show that the other driver was at fault.
- Contact an experienced attorney – Drunk driving accidents can be complex legal cases, and you should have an experienced attorney on your side to help you navigate the process and protect your rights.
- Negotiate with the insurance company – The other driver’s insurance company may try to lowball you on your settlement. An experienced attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement that covers all of your damages.
- File a personal injury lawsuit – If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you recover the maximum amount of damages possible.
Types of injuries that are common after a drunk driving accident
- Traumatic brain injuries – A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can occur when the head is suddenly and violently shaken, causing the brain to collide with the skull. TBIs can range from mild concussions to more severe injuries that can result in permanent disability or even death.
- Spinal cord injuries – A spinal cord injury can occur when the spine is damaged, resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries can be devastating, and often require lifelong medical care.
- Broken bones – Broken bones are one of the most common types of injuries after a car accident. They can range from minor fractures to more serious breaks that require surgery or other medical treatment.
- Soft tissue injuries – Soft tissue injuries, such as whiplash, can occur when the body is violently shaken in an accident. These types of injuries can be painful and debilitating and often require extensive medical treatment.
- Emotional injuries – Emotional injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are also common after a car accident. These types of injuries can have a profound effect on your quality of life, and may require therapy or other treatment.
If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident, there is hope for a full and happy recovery. Physical therapy can help you regain movement and strength in your limbs, and with hard work and dedication, you can return to your previous level of function. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends or family members – they may be able to provide support and assistance during your rehabilitation.
