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Steps to Take If You Are In an Accident with a Drunk Driver

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Steps to Take If You Are In an Accident with a Drunk Driver

If a drunk driver ever hits you, you will be disoriented. A checklist can help you get your bearings back faster and get the compensation you deserve.

What Qualifies As Drunk Driving In Georgia?

Suppose you wish to file a personal injury claim for a DUI accident in Georgia. In that case, you have to prove that the drunk party was under the influence of alcohol and that they fulfil one of the following criteria:

  • They are commercial drivers with a BAC level of .04 or higher during the accident.
  • They were under 21 years of age and had a BAC level of .02 or higher.
  • They refused a BAC test or did not provide a blood or urine sample.
  • They were not commercial drivers but had a BAC of .08 or higher.

Field sobriety tests are usually insufficient when determining whether a defendant is guilty or not. An Atlanta DUI accident lawyer may still use it in a civil lawsuit as proof.

What You Should Do After A DUI Car Accident – A Checklist

These accidents are more common than you think. This checklist will help you get your bearings and take action if you are ever involved in a DUI accident in Georgia:

1. Call 911 Immediately

Call 911 right after the drunk driver slams into you if you can. Whatever you do, don’t settle the matter without getting the police involved. They will ensure the crash is documented properly, and you can use those documents to file a claim with the insurance company or a lawsuit. If you think the other driver is drunk, watch for suspicious behavior as you wait. This includes slurred speech. Inform the paramedics and the police so they can include it in their reports.

2. Gather Information

Acquire and record as much information surrounding the accident as you can. This includes the drunk driver’s contact information, the names and details of witnesses, and the ID numbers of the police officers who arrive on the scene. Take pictures and videos of your and the other driver’s car, and ensure you get a copy of the police report. It should be free of errors.

3. Seek Medical Aid

Do not refuse medical aid whether you think you are injured or not. Some injuries can take time to manifest, and hidden ones can worsen with time if they are not taken care of immediately. The Atlanta DUI accident lawyer can also use it as proof that you were injured in the accident and deserve compensation.

4. Hire An Atlanta DUI Accident Lawyer

Before you get in touch with the insurance company regarding your DUI accident, contact an attorney first. You deserve compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and car damage. A lawyer will ensure your case has the best chance to produce the compensation you deserve after conducting a thorough investigation into the accident. This includes securing evidence that can strengthen your claim.

Contact Shani O. Brooks P.C. For A Consultation Today!

Car and DUI accidents are the leading causes of severe injuries in Atlanta, Georgia. Why should you pay out of pocket for damages if you were injured in an accident involving a drunk driver? Shani O. Brooks P.C. can go up against formidable opponents in court in your stead, such as insurance companies that deny your claim.

Shani O. Brooks Has Recovered Millions for Injury Victims Throughout the Greater Atlanta Area