If you have been hit by someone driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you’re probably eligible for some kind of compensation. But winning a claim against the insurance company of a DUI driver is anything but easy! It is important that you file the insurance claim properly. Here are three things to do, in order, if you’ve been injured by a drunk driver:
What you need to do immediately:
Immediately after the accident, your priority should be to protect yourself and ensure that you receive medical treatment. Call 911 and get help for yourself and others. Do not attempt to physically move yourself or anyone else unless it’s absolutely necessary, as it could cause further injury. Do not leave the accident site. If able, take photos until help arrives and collect other information, such as phone numbers of the other person, their workplace, driver’s license number, license plate number, insurance information, etc. Do not ask the driver if they are drunk, or attempt to scare them by telling them you’ve called the police. Keep conversation to a minimum.
Start by submitting a claim to your own insurance agency:
As soon as possible, file a claim with your own insurance company. Florida is a partial no fault state, so you are required to carry insurance to protect yourself from personal injury. If you have sustained serious injuries in the accident, you are going to want to make a Bodily Injury Claim through the Defendant Driver’s Insurance Company, or possibly through your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Policy. Hiring a car accident attorney immediately will help you identify what coverage is available to you.
Gathering evidence:
While waiting for help to arrive, look around to see if the driver is trying to get rid of beer cans or alcohol bottles. Tell the officer if you smelled alcohol on the driver’s breath. Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer in Florida as soon as you can. They can explain the full process and help you gather evidence.
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