Firefighters At A Car Accident Scene

What to Do If You’re Injured by a Drunk Driver: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Jeremy Bradford
Founding Partner

Did you suffer injuries in a North Carolina car accident with a drunk driver? Here are the steps you can take to protect your rights and lay the groundwork for a strong injury claim.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health should always be the top priority after an accident, so you should seek medical care as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Sometimes, injuries like whiplash or internal injuries don’t show symptoms right away. A doctor can diagnose and treat hidden injuries promptly to prevent long-term complications. Medical records from your exam will also play a key role if you decide to pursue a claim for your injuries. Getting prompt medical care protects your health and strengthens any legal case you choose to bring later.

Report the Accident to the Authorities

North Carolina law requires you to report any car accident involving injury, death, or property damage of $1,000 or more. Even if you don’t feel hurt and the damage seems minor, you should still contact the police immediately. The police can:

  • document the scene,
  • interview witnesses,
  • and prepare a formal accident report.

This police report will be important for your case because it provides an official record of the crash. Insurance companies often require these reports to process claims and rely on them to determine fault and responsibility. 

Gather Evidence and Document the Accident

If you can, gather as much evidence as possible at the accident scene. Take photos of both vehicles, the damage, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area, including traffic signs or signals. Request contact information from any witnesses who saw the crash. This documentation can provide crucial details for building your case. Keep track of medical bills, repair estimates, and any other related costs, too. All of this information will help your lawyer and insurance company understand the full scope of the losses resulting from the accident.

Notify Your Insurance Company

You should always contact your insurance company promptly after an accident. Most policies require prompt notification after a crash, sometimes within days or weeks of the incident. When you speak to your insurer, provide them with basic facts about the accident, but avoid going into too much detail until you’ve spoken with a lawyer. Some insurance companies might try to use statements you make early on to limit your claim. It’s best to get the claim process started as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary delays. Provide your insurer with a copy of the police report and any other relevant documentation upon request.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

A personal injury lawyer can handle the legal process while you recover from a DUI accident. They can explain your legal options and build a strong case for compensation. An attorney can also prepare and file your insurance claim and handle negotiations with insurance companies and other involved parties to get you a fair settlement. If the other side doesn’t agree to a fair settlement, your lawyer can take your case to court and represent you at trial. If you are dealing with significant medical bills, lost wages, or long-term injuries, having a lawyer on your side can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case.

Watch What You Say and Share About the Crash

Be careful with what you say and share after the accident, especially on social media. Insurance companies and opposing lawyers could look for statements or posts that could hurt your claim. You should also avoid discussing the details of the accident or your injuries with anyone other than your lawyer. Casual comments, even well-meaning ones, could get taken out of context and used against you.

Additionally, always consult your lawyer before making any official statements to insurance companies or others involved in the case. Careful communication is key to protecting your rights and strengthening your claim.

Get Help From a North Carolina Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Now

If a drunk driver injured you in a North Carolina traffic accident, Bradford Law is here to help. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and explain your options. Call us today or fill out our online form to get started.

About the Author
I am Jeremy Bradford, the founding and managing attorney of Bradford Law. From my offices in Charlotte, NC, I travel all across North Carolina helping injured people fight against insurance companies, in what could be life-altering circumstances. I have made a point to develop strong relationships with my clients. I take the trust my clients put in me personally and put myself into every case. If my client calls, my client will always be able to speak directly with me. You will get to know me as we work our way through the personal injury process. So when we make recommendations on whether to settle or go to trial, you will know your best interests are always at heart.