Despite the strict laws and public service announcements, drunk driving continues to be a problem on the roadways across the country. The Centers for Disease Control report that 28% of all traffic-related fatalities involve alcohol. In 2016 there were 10,497 deaths because of drunk driving. In 2016, more than 1 million people were arrested for drunk driving. If you are unable to work because a drunk driver hit you, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim and recover compensation for your damages.
Injuries That Occur After Being Hit By A Drunk Driver
If you have been hit by a drunk driver, you should stay on the scene of the crash and call the police. You will want to have supporting evidence that shows the crash took place, the extent of the damages and injuries, and that the other driver was under the influence of alcohol. The more documentation that you can gather to support your claim, the more likely you are to succeed with your claim.
A drunk driver may cross the centerline and hit you head-on. These are the most serious crashes and can cause traumatic brain injuries, internal injuries, spinal injuries, and even amputations or paralysis. Being T-boned because a driver ran a stop sign can cause back and neck injuries, head injuries, or broken bones. A drunk driver cannot properly judge distance and may rear-end your vehicle, or could sideswipe you.
Filing A Personal Injury Claim After Being Hit By A Drunk Driver
If you are unable to work because of the injuries you suffered after being hit by a drunk driver, you should gather supporting documentation for your claim. Keep medical records, medical bills, the accident report, witness statements, photos of the accident scene, repair estimates, and proof of missed work and lost wages. The more evidence that you can provide to support your claim, the more likely you are to succeed with your case.
Working With A Personal Injury Attorney
If a drunk driver hit you and your injuries have left you unable to work, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer who is licensed to handle such claims in your state. With the help of an attorney, you are much more likely to prove that the other driver was negligent – and legally intoxicated – making him or her liable for your damages. Every state has a strict statute of limitations for pursuing a personal injury claim. That means that there is a time limit for pursuing an accident injury case. If you wait too long, you cannot recover damages.
When you hire a personal injury lawyer, you don’t have to pay anything upfront. Instead, your lawyer will not get paid until you win your claim and recover compensation through a judgment or a settlement. To make sure your claim gets underway before it is too late, complete the free case evaluation form on this page to have your case reviewed today.
