What to do if You’re Injured by a Drunk Driver

Drunk driving is an inexcusable act that can cause severe damage to others, both physical and emotional. If you or a loved one have been victimized by someone else’s recklessness or negligence on the road, contact our experienced legal team at Trust Guss today. We have over 30 years of expertise in holding drunk drivers accountable, and we will fight for you to receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to under the law. We handle all your concerns and communication so you can focus your energy on what really matters – healing after a devastating personal injury.

Signs of an Intoxicated Driver

It is critical that you learn to recognize signs of an intoxicated driver, as this can help you navigate the road more defensively. Some red flags to look out for include:

• Drivers that swerve in and out of their lanes
• A driver whose face seems too close to the windshield
• Vehicles that are significantly out of sync with the speed limit
• A car without headlights
• Drivers that are tailgating
• Cars that make unnecessarily wide turns
• A car that runs into traffic cones, guardrails, or the median of the road

If you are nervous about a possible drunk driver, do everything possible to get out of harm’s way. If you can’t pass them, pull off onto the side of the road or take an early exit on the highway. Then, report the incident to the police or highway patrol so that no one else gets hurt.

What To Do Immediately After Being In A Car Crash With A Drunk Driver

• The top priority after a collision with a drunk driver is to get help. Call 911 right away and give them your location. Emergency medical personnel and law enforcement will arrive on the scene shortly. If you are badly injured, ask a bystander to contact the authorities. 

• If possible, take photos and videos of the crash scene. Accident scenes tend to be quickly cleared, so it is critical that you gather as much evidence as possible before that happens. 

• Exchange information with nearby witnesses, as they can be instrumental in making your case later on. You may see drivers who have stopped to help, so don’t hesitate to ask them for their phone numbers. 

• Exchange information with the drunk driver, if possible. You will need their identity in order to file a lawsuit, and you will need their insurance info in order to file an accident claim. If the driver is inaccessible, wait until the police arrive.

How To Work With Law Enforcement After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver

Once the police arrive on the scene, they will likely conduct an investigation. Drunk driving is a serious offense with serious consequences, and the intoxicated driver may face fees, license suspension, and even jail time. Any police evidence or the issuing of a DUI can be used as part of a civil lawsuit, so it is important to stay involved in the aftermath of a crash. 

Can I Sue The Drunk Driver Who Hit Me?

While insurance claims can aid you in covering certain costs after getting hit by a drunk driver, they often do not go far enough in addressing serious injuries and lost wages. The best way to obtain fair compensation for your losses is to work with an experienced personal injury attorney who understands the nuances of these types of cases and can fight for your rights. While you may have to wait for the drunk driver to undergo a criminal trial, this can work in your favor, as your civil lawsuit can cite the trial outcome if the defendant is found guilty of intoxication on the road.

Gathering Evidence Against The Drunk Driver 

In a drunk driving accident, there are several key pieces of evidence to gather. The intoxicated driver’s BAC (blood alcohol concentration), typically obtained by the police, can prove they were unfit to be on the road. Security camera footage of the accident may be available if the crash occurred in a busy area. As mentioned, photos and videos of the scene can also be invaluable in proving your case. 

Because witness memories fade and security camera footage gets erased, it is essential that you hire a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident. By working with our dedicated drunk driver lawyers at Trust Guss, you will have the best chance of obtaining the damages you are rightfully owed.

Why Choose Trust Guss? 

At Trust Guss, we have been handling personal injury claims across the country for over 30 years. If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, know that we are committed to doing everything possible to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to. We fight relentlessly for your rights, and you pay nothing unless we win! No matter the time of day, you will always speak with a real, live human being. These are just a few of the many reasons why our firm has over 1400 five-star reviews.

Stewart J. Guss is a sought-after attorney with a passion for justice, outstanding litigation results, and an unwavering dedication to his clients. He is an active member of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association and has been ranked as a Top Lawyer by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel and Houstonia Magazine. When it comes to your case, Stewart J. Guss treats every individual with respect and compassion, understanding that clients deserve a seamless legal journey that optimizes their peace of mind. Call today to get started with a free, in-depth consultation!