Author: Katie Bosworth
Title: What to Do if You’re Hit by an Impaired Driver
December marks National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a critical time to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence and to advocate for safer roads during the holiday season. Unfortunately, despite increased efforts by law enforcement and public campaigns, impaired driving remains a leading cause of serious accidents. If you’re involved in a collision caused by an impaired driver, it’s important to know what steps to take to protect your health, your rights, and your future.
The Immediate Steps to Take After a Crash
1. Ensure Safety and Call for Help
- Move to a safe location if possible, away from traffic or other hazards.
- Report the accident immediately. Inform the dispatcher of any injuries and that you suspect the other driver may be impaired.
2. Document the Scene
- If it’s safe to do so, take pictures or videos of the vehicles, damages, and surrounding area.
- Note details such as the time, location, weather conditions, and any signs of impairment (e.g., open alcohol containers, slurred speech, erratic behavior).
3. Avoid Confrontation
- Stay calm and avoid engaging with the impaired driver directly, as they may be unpredictable. Allow law enforcement to handle interactions with the other party.
4. Exchange Information
- Provide contact and insurance information to police, so they canl document the necessary details.
Working with Law Enforcement
When police arrive, share any observations you made of the other driver/driving conduct. Law enforcement will conduct their investigation, which may include administering field sobriety tests or chemical tests on the impaired driver. Their report will be crucial evidence in your case.
Consult an Experienced Attorney
Accidents involving impaired drivers often result in complex legal and insurance issues. An attorney can help navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue all avenues to compensation. At Doar Drill and Skow, we offer free consults for personal injury claims, so it is no risk to call and discuss your potential claim.