What Happens After You’re Hit by an Intoxicated Driver?

New information has surfaced about the driver who allegedly caused the large bus crash involving the death of 12 people in Uvalde County, TX. The driver allegedly was on prescription drugs and stated that he was texting during the accident after he was caught on video swerving over the edge line more than 37 times. Intoxicated drivers hit people regularly, and there are some steps you can take to see if a drunk driver hit you in an auto accident.

How Do You Know if A Driver Is Intoxicated?

  • Look for signs before the accident: swerving on the road or slowing down at a stoplight can indicate that a driver is intoxicated. While communicating with a driver after an accident, listen for slurred speech and look for a vacant or dull expression on their face. Are they having trouble communicating with you?

  • Contact the police: This is a good idea in any accident. A police officer will be better able to tell if someone is intoxicated, and having a police report of your accident can make your case stronger.

How Do You Know If You’re Getting Enough Coverage for Your Accident?

When filing a claim in civil court against a drunk driver, several factors will be considered. How badly your vehicle was damaged, how severe the injuries sustained were, and how negligent and intoxicated the driver was will be considered.

  • Uninsured Drivers: If the intoxicated driver who hits you does not have insurance, your insurance company may have to cover the damages you receive with Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage. If you do not have Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage, you can consult the help of a car accident attorney to explore other options.

  • Dram shop claims: If the circumstances are right, you can attempt to claim the bar or restaurant that sold the alcohol to the drunk driver.

Watch Out for Insurance Companies

The other driver’s insurance company may call you and offer you a settlement quickly after the accident. Insurance companies are trying to offer you as little as possible and quickly, so future damages may not be considered.  Contacting a Lufkin drunk driving accident attorney can help you make the right decisions following an accident involving a drunk driver.

Previous
Previous

Auto Recalls Hit Record High: Is Your Car Safe?

Next
Next

What If My Employer Doesn’t Offer Workers’ Comp?