I Got Hit by a Drunk Driver: What Are My Legal Options?
Driving under the influence shows extreme disregard for the safety of others. When someone drives drunk in a large metropolitan area like Brooklyn, NY, the consequences can be disastrous, even fatal. If you were injured after getting hit by a drunk driver, you should know that you have options to seek justice and financial compensation.
At Zucker & Regev, P.C., our car accident lawyers find themselves explaining what your legal options are after getting hit by a drunk driver all too often. Though we wish these tragic incidents would never occur, we are determined to help injured parties hold irresponsible drivers accountable and achieve the justice they are due.
What to Do Immediately After Getting Hit by a Drunk Driver
Depending on the nature of your accident, you may follow these steps in a different order, but each is incredibly important.
Get Medical Attention
First and foremost, you should ensure that you and your loved ones are safe. Your injuries may not seem serious at first, but medical records establish proof of severity.
Document Everything at the Scene
Take pictures of the accident, get contact information for any witnesses, and get the driver’s insurance information if you are able. The evidence and testimony you collect will bolster your claim.
Do Not Accept the First Insurance Offer
The drunk driver’s insurance company will most likely make a lowball offer to settle. Do not accept this offer or have any other communication with the insurance company. Instead, call our Brooklyn car accident lawyers and let us get to work on maximizing your compensation.
Filing a Lawsuit Against a Drunk Driver
You can file a personal injury lawsuit if you suffered injuries that resulted from another party’s negligence. In cases of DUI accidents, the driver’s intoxication (measured through blood and breath alcohol tests) and any traffic violations (speeding, running red lights, weaving between lanes) are evidence of negligence.
These are the damages you can be compensated for:
Economic Damages
This includes your medical expenses, lost wages, the cost of vehicle repairs or replacement, and rehabilitative services.
Non-Economic Damages
This includes intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, and loss of quality of life.
Punitive Damages May Apply
Punitive damages are intended to punish the responsible party for their extreme disregard for the safety of others. Though rarely awarded, they are more likely to apply in situations like DUI crashes, especially if the victim suffered catastrophic injuries or lost their life.
You Have a Deadline to File a Lawsuit
New York’s statute of limitations for DUI car accidents is three years from the date of the accident. If you’ve been considering retaining a lawyer for help recovering compensation, today is the day to call Zucker & Regev, P.C.
Secure Determined Representation
Our car accident lawyers in Brooklyn don’t shy away from a fight with big insurance companies. We can handle your claim as you focus on your recovery. Let’s discuss the nature of your case during a free consultation at our Brooklyn, NY, injury law office or another location convenient to you.