What to Do if You Are Involved in a Drunk Driving Accident
Although numerous steps have been taken over the years to curb drunk driving, it is estimated that one out of every three traffic related deaths involve a driver that is under the influence of alcohol. If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver, you know the devastating impact it can have on your life. Although it is never an easy situation, you can be more prepared when you know how to respond. Here is what you should do if you are involved in a drunk driving accident:
Know the Limits
Before we dive into what to do when you are involved in a drunk driving accident with an impaired driver, let’s discuss the legal limits when it comes to alcohol. The legal limit in Tennessee is a .08 Blood Alcohol Content, or BAC. It is important to know that how many drinks it takes to reach this level depends on the gender, weight, and age of the person. Your BAC will also rise quicker with certain types of drinks, such as hard liquor. It is also important to remember that it is illegal to partake of any alcohol if you are under the age of 21.
Call the Authorities
Although most people know the rules and consequences of drunk driving, it still happens more often than you think. If you are part of an accident that involves a drunk driver, there are some steps that you should be sure to take. First, it is important to always call the police after any automobile accident, no matter how serious it is. This is especially important if you believe the other driver is under the influence of alcohol. Police are trained to identify impaired drivers, so upon arrival they will likely perform a field sobriety test or a breathalyzer.
Gather Evidence
Just as you would with any car accident, it is important to gather as much evidence as possible from the scene. First, be sure to take plenty of photos of the damage to both vehicles, and get the information from the other driver including their name, address, and proof of insurance. If you have a feeling that the other driver is under the influence, it is important to document that if you can. Smart phones can be a crucial tool in these situations, as they can be used to take audio or video recordings of your conversations with the other driver and witnesses. Also, be on the lookout for any suspicious activity from the other driver, such as extreme nervousness or trying to hide things in their vehicle.
Contact a Lawyer
As a result of the accident, the drunk driver should be held responsible for the damage to your vehicle and any injuries that take place as a result of the crash. Our team of lawyers are experienced in drunk driving cases, and we can make sure you don’t have to go through the process alone. We will fight to make sure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
Have you or someone you know been involved in a drunk driving accident? Contact our team today to let us help get your life back on track.
