Being involved in an accident is traumatic, but when it’s caused by a drunk driver, the situation becomes even more distressing. If you or a loved one has been hit by a drunk driver in Oklahoma, knowing the right steps to take can help protect your health, your rights, and your future.
1. Ensure Your Safety and Call 911
First and foremost, prioritize your safety. If possible:
- Move your vehicle to a safe location to avoid further collisions.
- Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 immediately to report the accident. Be sure to inform the dispatcher if you suspect the other driver is intoxicated.
When law enforcement arrives, they will conduct field sobriety tests, assess the driver's condition, and create an official accident report. This documentation is crucial for any legal or insurance claims that follow.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after the accident, adrenaline can mask injuries. It’s vital to:
- Get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible, either at the scene or later at a hospital or clinic.
- Keep records of all medical assessments, treatments, and expenses, as these will support your claims for damages.
Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not present symptoms immediately. A prompt medical evaluation safeguards both your health and your ability to claim compensation.
3. Document the Scene and Exchange Information
While waiting for the police to arrive or immediately afterward:
- Take photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, license plates, injuries, road conditions, and any visible signs of driver impairment (e.g., alcohol containers).
- Exchange insurance and contact information with other parties involved but avoid discussing fault or apologizing, as these statements could be used against you.
- Gather contact information from any witnesses who saw the collision. Their testimony could play a pivotal role in verifying what took place.
4. Request a Copy of the Police Report
The police report is a key document that often notes whether the at-fault driver was intoxicated. Request a copy as soon as it becomes available through the local law enforcement agency. This report will serve as evidence in your legal and insurance claims, helping strengthen your case.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
After the accident, promptly inform your insurance company. Provide them with factual information about the incident without speculating about who was at fault. Mention any police documentation confirming the intoxicated state of the other driver.
While you may initially rely on your own insurance coverage for medical bills (depending on your policy), pursuing compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurer is often necessary.
6. Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Drunk driving accidents can result in complex legal and insurance battles. To ensure your rights are protected, consult a personal injury attorney who specializes in these cases. A dedicated attorney will:
- Investigate the circumstances of your accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness testimonies, and video footage.
- Work to secure compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other damages.
- Advocate for your best interests against insurance companies and defense lawyers.
At Stipe Law Firm, we have helped countless Oklahomans achieve full and fair compensation in drunk driving cases. With a proven track record of success, we are committed to holding wrong-doers accountable for their actions and supporting you through this challenging time.
7. Know Your Rights Under Oklahoma Law
Oklahoma law takes drunk driving offenses seriously. Beyond the offender facing criminal charges (such as DUI and reckless endangerment), you may also have the right to:
- Pursue compensatory damages for tangible losses like medical bills and property repairs.
- Request punitive damages, which serve to punish the drunk driver for particularly reckless or malicious behavior.
Navigating these legal pathways can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can guide you through the process while ensuring you receive everything you’re entitled to under Oklahoma law.
8. Join Us in the Fight Against Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is entirely preventable, yet it continues to cause devastating harm to Oklahoma families. By taking legal action, you’re not only standing up for yourself but also helping deter others from repeating similar reckless behavior. Justice for you today can prevent future tragedies tomorrow.
Working With McAlester Drunk Driving Accident Attorney
Being hit by a drunk driver can disrupt your life in unimaginable ways, but you don’t have to go through it alone. While you focus on your recovery, your case is in capable hands with us.
At Stipe Law Firm, we are dedicated to standing by drunk driving accident victims like you every step of the way. If a drunk driver has hit you in Oklahoma, we’ll fight for your justice, so you can heal and rebuild with confidence.
Contact us today at (918) 505-7741 for a free consultation.