According to statistics, it is estimated that three in every 10 Americans will be impacted by an alcohol-related accident at some point in their lives. Drinking alcohol depresses the central nervous system and impacts a driver’s reaction time, concentration, perception, and coordination.
In Chicago (and every other state in the U.S.), drunk driving is illegal. Even just one drink can impair a person’s driving ability. However, the risk of a serious, injury-causing accident increases significantly if a person’s BAC (blood alcohol level) is 0.08% or higher.
You have rights if you are involved in an accident with a drunk driver. It is smart to contact a personal injury attorney to know what these rights are and to protect them.
There are a few things to know after being struck by a drunk driver. These things include the following:
- You have the right to file a lawsuit against the driver who hit you and recover monetary damages for lost income, medical costs, pain and suffering, and more.
- Since DUI is a crime, you can request victim restitution if the driver who hit you is convicted.
- Drivers who are impaired by alcohol are not automatically at-fault for accidents. You must prove that their impairment resulted in or contributed to the accident that occurred.
It’s recommended that you hire an attorney for help if you plan to file a personal injury claim. This will ensure that your rights are protected.
What to Do After Being Struck by an Intoxicated Driver in Chicago
If a drunk driver hits you, your life can change quickly. While the situation may be scary and overwhelming, you have rights.
To protect your rights, be sure to take the right steps. These include the following:
Contact the Authorities
You need to contact the authorities to let them know about the incident. By contacting the police, you can receive the medical treatment needed and ensure an official accident report is created.
Exchange Information
After an accident, you need to collect the names and contact information of anyone involved in the accident. Be sure to get other related information, including the other vehicle’s license plate number, car insurance details, and the driver’s license number.
Document the Accident Scene
After being involved in an accident, it is smart to get the names and contact information of anyone who saw what happened. Be sure to capture pictures or videos of the scene, too. This includes damage to your vehicle, visible injuries, traffic signals, lighting conditions, and street signs.
Do not interfere with the investigation that is being done by the authorities. When a DUI accident occurs, the police need to collect evidence related to what happened. Along with being responsible for their injuries, most people who receive a DUI will also face criminal charges, which carry penalties of jail time and fines.
Don’t Wait to Talk to an Attorney
Being involved in an accident with a drunk driver can be scary and overwhelming. While you may be unsure what to do next, a personal injury attorney lawyer can help with your situation.
Hiring an experienced and reputable attorney means you have someone on your side, fighting for your rights. They will investigate the situation and help you file a lawsuit or take other steps to recover the monetary damages you are entitled to.
Most personal injury attorneys in Chicago provide free initial consultations. This means that you can talk to an attorney with no risk and no money due. Protect yourself and your rights by contacting an attorney immediately after an accident with a drunk driver.
