According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), drunk driving accounts for more than one third of all car accidents in the country. Though a drunk driver can strike at any time, day or night, more drunk driving accidents occur at night. If you have been involved in a car accidents, you may feel overwhelmed and not be able to think clearly. In these moments, however, there are certain actions you should try to take as soon as possible. If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced Birmingham drunk driving accident attorney so that we can strategize about the best possible outcome for your situation.
What Happens Next?
When you are in a car accident with a drunk driver, criminal charges will most likely be filed because drinking and driving is against the law. However, if you would like to be compensated for any injuries suffered by you or damage done to your vehicle or property, then you will have to file a civil claim against the drunk driver. After being involved in a car accident, the most important thing to do is to seek medical care to determine whether you have sustained any injuries. Next, seek legal advice and representation from a drunk driver accident lawyer to help you move forward with your case and to help you be compensated adequately for any injuries you have sustained.
You may want to contact the other driver’s insurance company and file a third-party claim against the carrier. It is important to note that if you have been in a car accident with a drunk driver, he or she is not the only one who can be made to compensate you for your damages. Under Alabama’s Dram Shop Act, other individuals may be held responsible, such as a restaurant owner or a bartender who served alcohol to the drunk driver knowing that he or she was already intoxicated. Depending on your situation, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, as well as loss of income and pain and suffering, which is why it is best to seek legal advice if you decide to pursue a claim or multiple claims against those who have caused you harm.
Need Legal Advice?
Being in any form of an accident can be overwhelming, but it can be even more frightening when you have been in an accident with a drunk driver. The injuries and property damage that you sustain should not be left uncompensated. Seeking adequate legal advice and representation is invaluable to your case because a drunk driver accident lawyer can help you evaluate your claim. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced Birmingham drunk driving accident attorney at Hornsby, Watson, Hornsby & Heyward to help you with your case today.