If a drunk driver has hit you, you have most likely suffered injuries and various damages. When hit by a drunk driver involved a head-on collision, the results could be much more life-altering.
A head-on collision is a more dangerous crash because two cars traveling opposite directions crash into each other head-on. The force of the impact doubles because of the traveling speed of each vehicle involved in the accident. When a driver is operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, he has poor coordination, slowed reaction, and a lack of judgment, so the likelihood of a crash increases significantly.
Drunk Driving Crashes
The odds of being in a crash with a drunk driver are high, with 3 out of every 10 people in the United States expected to be involved in an alcohol-related crash at some point in their lives. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 29 people die across the country daily because of crashes involving drunk drivers.
While the number of crashes involving drunk drivers has fallen greatly during the last 30 years, more than 10,000 people are still killed in these crashes every year. In addition to the fatalities, tens of thousands of people are injured. More than $44 billion in economic damages resulted from drunk driving crashes during 2016 alone.
What to Do If in a Head-On Collision Caused by a Drunk Driver
If you have been hit by a drunk driver in a head-on collision, make sure the police are called. If your injuries are serious, call for an ambulance and be transported that way. Otherwise, stay on the scene and go to the emergency room as soon as possible.
You must seek medical care right away. You will need to keep any documentation that can support your claim, such as copies of medical bills and records, evidence of missed work and lost wages, written repair estimates for your vehicle, tow bills, receipts for a rental car, prescription receipts, and any other costs you might suffer because of the crash.
Documentation is essential to a successful personal injury claim. If you are physically able, take photos of the accident scene and of the damages. Be sure to get statements from any witnesses, along with their names and contact details.
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been involved in a head-on collision after being hit by a drunk driver, you should speak with a personal injury attorney right away. These claims are challenging, and you want to ensure your rights are protected and make sure you get compensated fairly for your damages.
Personal injury lawyers are paid based on a contingency basis, so you there are no out-of-pocket costs. Your attorney will not be paid until you are compensated through a judgment or settlement. To get your claim reviewed by an attorney who practices accident injury law in your state, complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page today!
