With 32 people dying every day from DUIs, it’s vital to get help as soon as possible if you’ve been the victim of a DUI. In addition, no matter where you are in the United States, it’s vital to get help from a qualified state DUI lawyer. For instance, a Phoenix drunk driving accident lawyer can help inform you of legal statutes, such as the 0.8% BAC law, and other similar laws. Below are some steps you can take immediately after a DUI accident.
Seek Medical Help
It’s crucial to seek medical help immediately after a DUI. A qualified medical professional can diagnose any injuries you may have sustained and determine if there is an underlying issue, such as alcohol poisoning or concussion, that needs to be addressed.
In addition, you may need to go to court and present medical records to prove that you were legitimately injured as a result of the DUI.
Contact the Police
If you’ve been injured in a DUI accident, contact local law enforcement and inform them about what happened. The police will document the incident and provide you with an official report which you can use later for legal proceedings. If you plan on filing a lawsuit, it’s important to contact law enforcement as soon as possible in order to preserve your rights.
Gather Evidence
It’s important to collect evidence from the scene of the accident such as photographs, eyewitness statements, and other documents that could be used to establish fault in court. This evidence should also include information regarding how much alcohol was consumed prior to the accident, as well as the field sobriety test results of the at-fault driver.
Contact an Attorney
It is also important to contact a qualified DUI lawyer immediately after the accident. A good attorney can provide legal advice on how best to handle your case and protect your rights. They can also represent you in court, if necessary.
In addition, a qualified DUI attorney can explain all of your legal rights and help you understand the consequences associated with a DUI conviction.
Understand Your Rights
It’s important to understand your rights as an individual when it comes to DUIs. Depending on the state in which you live, there are certain laws and regulations that govern drinking and driving.
A qualified DUI attorney can help explain the laws applicable to your case, as well as provide guidance on how best to proceed with your legal situation.
Follow Up With Your Insurance Company
If you or the other driver involved in the accident have insurance, it’s important to contact your carrier and inform them of the incident. They will be able to provide you with advice on how best to proceed, as well as explain any coverage options that may be available. If the accident wasn’t your fault, you may be able to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company.
Complete Any Necessary Follow-Up
If you were cited in the DUI accident, it’s important to complete any necessary follow-up by appearing at court hearings or other proceedings. You may also need to attend alcohol education courses and counseling sessions as part of your rehabilitation. If you’re a victim of a DUI accident, complete any necessary follow-up to ensure that justice is served and that the offender pays for their actions.
