Car accidents can be traumatizing, especially when it’s not your fault. However, the situation becomes more complicated when the other driver is found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. It’s essential to know the right steps to take in such a case to protect your rights and interests.

In this article, we’ll take a look at how a Colorado Springs car accident case is different if it involves a drunk driver. We’ll also discuss the steps you should take after getting hit by a drunk driver.

If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident, a Colorado Springs car accident lawyer can help you seek justice and hold the at-fault party accountable. Contact Springs Law Group today to get started on your claim.

Assess Yourself for Injuries

Assessing yourself for injuries is crucial after being involved in a car accident, particularly when the other driver was under the influence of alcohol. It’s essential to ensure you’re safe and not severely injured before taking further steps.

Once you’ve safely exited your vehicle, take a few moments to assess your body. Check for any physical injuries or pain, including cuts, bruises, or broken bones. If you’re experiencing severe pain, don’t hesitate to call for emergency medical assistance.

It’s also important to remember that some injuries may not be immediately apparent after an accident, so it’s best to have a medical professional examine you. Even if you don’t feel hurt, consider visiting a doctor as soon as possible to rule out any hidden injuries that could manifest later.

Call the Police

Calling the police is an essential step after a car accident, regardless of whether or not the other driver was intoxicated. However, when the other driver is drunk, it’s crucial to involve law enforcement immediately.

When you call the police, they will arrive at the scene and assess the situation. They will examine both vehicles and collect evidence to help them determine what happened. If the other driver is visibly intoxicated, the police will conduct a sobriety test to confirm their suspicion.

If the test results confirm that the driver was indeed under the influence of alcohol, the police will arrest the driver and charge them with a DUI. This process helps ensure that the driver is held accountable for their actions and that they can’t continue driving while under the influence.

Collect Information

While waiting for the police to arrive, collect information from the other driver, including their name, phone number, and insurance details. Additionally, note down any details that may be relevant to the accident, such as the location, time, weather conditions, and the driver’s behavior. Evidence can help improve your car accident claim.

Seek Legal Advice

If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, it’s essential to seek legal advice from a personal injury attorney. They can help you understand your rights and options and help you get the compensation you deserve.

Navigating the legal system can be complicated, especially when dealing with a drunk driving case. A personal injury lawyer has your best interests in mind and will guide you through the legal process.

Dealing With Two Different Cases

If the drunk driver is arrested and charged with a DUI, you may be dealing with two different cases. On the one hand, you have a personal injury case for your bodily injury and potential property damage claim. On the other hand, you have a criminal case against the driver for driving under the influence.

The personal injury case is a civil case, and the criminal case is a case of the state versus the driver. While the two cases are separate, they may intersect at certain points. For example, you may be called as a witness in the DUI case to provide testimony about the accident.

How a DUI Charge Can Help Your Personal Injury Case

While a DUI charge doesn’t necessarily guarantee compensation for your injuries, it can help your personal injury case. The fact that the driver was drunk at the time of the accident can help establish liability and negligence, making it easier to prove that the other driver was at fault.

Additionally, a DUI charge can help speed up the settlement process. The driver’s insurance company may be more willing to settle the case quickly, knowing they will likely lose in court.

Contact Springs Law Group Today

If you’re involved in a car accident with a drunk driver, it’s essential to take the right steps to protect your rights and interests. Make sure you document your injuries and call the police. You should also seek legal advice from an experienced lawyer.

Remember that you may be dealing with two cases: a personal injury case and a criminal case against the driver for driving under the influence. However, a DUI charge can help establish liability and speed up the settlement process.

Springs Law Group can help you win fair compensation for your drunk driving injury claim. Call us today to book your free consultation.