Unfortunately the problem of drunk driving continues on a daily basis. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that there are 30 drunk driving related deaths in this country each day.
The effects of alcohol on your cognitive abilities has been well documented and a driver who is intoxicated is a danger to themselves and also others who are on the road. In the event that a driver who has had too much to drink gets behind the wheel and injures you there are steps you can take to protect yourself moving forward. Following these steps will allow you to heal from the accident both physically and mentally.
Step 1: Call the police. When you’re involved in a Connecticut auto accident you should immediately call the police. This is especially true when you suspect the other driver is intoxicated because that is not a determination you can make on your own.
Step 2: Document any injuries. At the scene of the accident you should take photos of all of your injuries (if you’re able to do so.) If you are not physically able to do so, ask a passenger who was in your car.
Step 3: Seek medical attention. No matter how big or small you believe your injuries to be, you should always seek medical attention to ensure that your injuries are well documented. You may need the word of a medical professional to seek damages that you are entitled to.
Step 4: Cooperate with the police and prosecutors. If you are asked to serve as a witness in a criminal case against the driver who would likely be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) you should cooperate. Not only is important for you to take care of yourself, but you will also help protect other drivers.
Step 5: Contact a Connecticut auto accident attorney. You may need to do this in any type of auto accident, but in a case that is involving a driver who was driving under the influence of alcohol it is even more critical that you have someone with your best interests in mind.
Alcohol related auto accidents occur far too often and they never come at a time when you’re expecting them. Be prepared with these steps in mind to help protect you in the event that you are involved in one of these terrible events.
