Drunk driving can devastate lives. These negligent drivers cause serious injuries and even death. It happens far too often on Kentucky roadways, including busy routes like the Dixie Highway and Interstate 65 in Louisville. You may feel overwhelmed, but knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath can help you prepare for the road ahead.
Why these crashes can be devastating
A collision with a drunk driver is often a high-impact event that results in severe and life-altering injuries. A drunk driver’s reckless actions put you at a higher risk of suffering more serious harm or death. In Kentucky, these crashes can leave victims with lasting pain and long-term medical needs. Common injuries suffered by victims include:
- Traumatic brain injury from a violent blow to the head
- Spinal cord damage that can result in paralysis
- Internal bleeding from organs rupturing in the crash
- Broken bones that require extensive surgery and healing
- Whiplash from the sudden and violent movement of the head
- Psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD)
After a collision, it is vital to get a thorough medical checkup, even if you feel fine at first. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away, including pain and suffering and other profound emotional injuries.
Important steps after an injury
The moments following a crash are crucial for your safety and any future legal claim. First, call 911 to get the police and paramedics on the scene. The police report will document the details and the driver’s condition. Next, take photos of the accident scene and the damage to the vehicles.
Do not speak with the other driver beyond exchanging basic information. Your medical records are also vital. They create an official timeline of your injuries, which is critical evidence for receiving compensation. Report the accident to your insurance company, but stick to basic facts. If the intoxicated driver’s insurer attempts to contact you, refer them to your lawyer.
When a loved one dies due to a drunk driver’s actions, the family must take these same steps to prepare for a wrongful death claim.
What an attorney can do to help
A skilled drunk driving accident attorney can guide you through the complex aftermath of a crash. They can investigate the accident, collecting evidence such as police reports, which may include the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of the crash, along with witness statements. This work helps build a strong case. Your lawyer can also deal with the at-fault party’s insurance company so that you can focus on your recovery.
In Kentucky, a drunk driver can face two separate cases. The criminal case, handled by the state, determines if the driver is guilty of a crime, like a DUI. The civil case you file seeks compensation for your medical bills and other financial losses. Having an experienced lawyer on your side who understands how these cases differ is essential when you pursue compensation and justice.