Hurt By A Drunk Driver? What To Know

Those who are intoxicated and get behind the wheel are taking some big risks, and if you are injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation. Not only is drunk driving not a good excuse for causing the accident, but it could also mean criminal charges for the driver that caused the wreck. Read on to learn more about getting compensated for a drunk-driving accident.

Was the driver who caused the accident drunk?

If anyone is suspected of being under the influence, the suspect may be tested on the scene. A driver who smells of alcohol or who has empty alcohol containers in the vehicle may arouse suspicions. While state law varies a lot, in many instances tests will be performed at the hospital or at the police station, if not at the scene. Breathalyzers, blood tests, and urine tests are commonly given to suspects, and the results will be important to your personal injury claim. It should be noted that in some cases all accident parties will be tested for the presence of drugs or alcohol.

Getting the results

While it could take some weeks to become available, you should be able to access a copy of the sobriety tests done at the scene or otherwise. This report will show the blood alcohol concentration of the motorist, and the report will often contain detailed information about how the results were obtained and when. This report is one of the most important forms of proof of liability you can offer in a personal injury claim. Liability can mean "the level of fault," and the evidence that the driver was impaired when causing the accident could mean that they were 100% liable for the accident.

The accident report

Along with the blood alcohol concentration report, the accident report is yet another important form of evidence. This report is often completed at the scene by the responding officer and contains vital information, like the names of all involved parties, a summary of how the accident occurred (often with a drawing), and most importantly, the officer's opinion as to the cause of the accident. Naturally, if the officer suspected that the other driver was intoxicated at the time of the accident, this will be in the report, and it provides yet another piece of important proof for your claim.

Getting compensation

While it may be comforting to know that the drunk driver that caused the accident and your injuries will face criminal charges, that knowledge won't pay your bills. Being unable to work for weeks, having to deal with a wrecked car, and suffering from injuries all deserve monetary compensation. Be sure to speak to a personal injury attorney like Carl L. Britt, Jr. as soon as possible; time could be of the essence, and the sooner you file suit, the sooner you will be compensated.


Share