What to Do if You’re Injured in a Drunk Driving Accident

Drunk driving accidents can result in significant injuries and property damage. One moment you’re headed home or running an errand, and the next, you’re dealing with pain and a wrecked vehicle due to another person’s recklessness. It's common to wonder what steps you should take after a drunk driving accident. That's where guidance from a skilled motor vehicle accident attorney can help.

At Humphrey Law PLLC, we are dedicated to helping drunk driving accident victims pursue compensation for their injuries. From our offices in Kingwood and Houston, Texas, our attorney has the experience and resources to help you hold negligent drivers accountable. These types of accidents can be challenging. If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident, we will help you understand what to do next to preserve your legal rights and build a strong case for compensation.

Immediate Steps to Take at the Scene

The moments following a crash are often a blur of adrenaline and shock. However, the actions you take immediately after the accident can significantly impact both your physical health and your legal claim.

Your primary focus must always be on your safety. However, if you're physically able to, gathering information at the scene provides a foundation for your recovery. The primary steps you should take immediately after an accident include the following:

• Check for injuries and call 911: Always report the crash to the police. An official accident report is a vital piece of evidence, as it often includes the officer’s observations regarding the other driver’s sobriety and ability to pilot their vehicle.

• Request medical assistance: Even if you feel okay, some injuries don't show symptoms right away. Having a medical professional evaluate you immediately creates a clear link between the crash and your physical condition.

• Gather driver and witness information: Collect the names, phone numbers, and insurance details of the other driver. If there are people who saw what happened, gather their statements and contact information. This can often serve as helpful evidence.

• Document the scene with photos: Take pictures of the vehicle damage, the position of the cars, any skid marks, and the surrounding area. Visual evidence is hard to dispute.

• Note signs of intoxication: If you notice the other driver slurring their speech, stumbling, or trying to hide bottles, mention these specific details to the responding officers.

By taking these steps, you can protect your well-being while also preserving facts that might otherwise disappear once the accident scene is cleaned up. These initial details help an experienced personal injury lawyer build a strong case on your behalf. Once the scene is cleared and you've received medical attention, you can begin focusing on the long-term aspects of your claim.

The Importance of Seeking Medical Care and Documenting Your Recovery

After the accident, your recovery will likely be a marathon, not a sprint. It’s common for victims of drunk driving crashes to experience internal injuries, whiplash, or traumatic brain injuries that aren't obvious at first. Continuous medical care isn't just about getting better; it’s about creating a paper trail that proves the extent of your losses. The steps you should take to support your recovery following an accident include: 

• Follow all doctor recommendations: If a physician suggests physical therapy, specialist visits, or diagnostic tests, make sure to follow through. Skipping appointments or delaying treatment can often hurt your health and your case.

• Keep a symptoms journal: Write down your daily pain levels, emotional struggles, and the activities you can no longer do. This personal account helps illustrate the human cost of the accident.

• Save all medical bills and records: From hospital stays to over-the-counter bandages, keep every receipt. These costs add up quickly and represent a significant portion of your claim.

• Avoid discussing the case on social media: It’s tempting to share what happened, but insurance adjusters often monitor social media to find posts they can use to downplay your injuries.

Focusing on your health is your most important job. While you handle your medical appointments and physical therapy, our Texas motor vehicle accident lawyer will work behind the scenes to gather the necessary documentation to support your needs. 

How to Deal With Insurance Companies After a Crash

An insurance adjuster will often reach out very quickly after an accident. They might seem friendly and helpful, but their goal is to settle the claim for as little money as possible. They know that you're likely stressed and facing mounting bills, and they may try to pressure you into a quick settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries. 

However, you should never make any statements to the insurance company or accept a settlement offer without first speaking with an attorney. If you believe the insurance company is trying to pressure you into a quick settlement, consider the following:

• Don't accept the first offer: Initial offers are often lower than what your case is actually worth. They’re designed to save the insurance company money, not to cover your long-term needs.

• Refer adjusters to your legal counsel: You don't have to talk to them yourself. Your attorney can handle all communication, which protects you from saying something that might be used against you.

• Be careful with medical releases: Insurance companies might request a blanket release to access your entire medical history. This is often an attempt to find pre-existing conditions to blame for your current pain.

• Understand your policy limits: An attorney can help you look at all available insurance coverage to find the maximum amount of money available for your recovery.

Managing these interactions can be a heavy burden when you're trying to heal. At Humphrey Law PLLC, we strive to take that weight off your shoulders by acting as the point of contact for all insurance-related matters. This lets you stay focused on your family and your health while we fight for a fair outcome. 

Contact Our Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney for Representation Today

If you have been injured in a drunk driving accident, you have the right to file a claim against the at-fault driver and pursue compensation. At Humphrey Law PLLC, our attorney, Brian S. Humphrey II, is dedicated to standing by you during these difficult times. With offices in Kingwood and Houston, Texas, we serve clients throughout the state who need assistance following traffic accidents.

Our goal is to help you handle the legal burdens so you can focus on what matters most: your recovery and your future. For experienced representation from an attorney who cares about your well-being as much as your case, reach out to us today to schedule a consultation.