The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have identified motor vehicle accidents as one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injury (TBI).
TBIs can have a severe impact on your life, limiting your ability to work, think clearly, and carry out daily activities.
According to a Carlsbad brain injury lawyer, immediate medical attention is required to properly evaluate the seriousness of the injury and give the victim the appropriate medical treatment.
Recording the accident, collecting evidence, and obtaining witness accounts will help to support your case.
A personal injury attorney familiar with drunk driving incidents can guide you through the legal system and seek reimbursement for medical costs, lost income, and suffering as well as pain.Â
This article will walk you through the proper steps to take after suffering from a brain injury caused by drunk driving.
Immediate Actions to Take After the Accident
After a drunk driving accident, it is important to assess the safety of everyone involved first. Check for any injuries suffered and immediately call emergency services. If possible, transfer victims to another location to reduce the risk of additional accidents.
Gather witness names and other important information. Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle, and surroundings. The pictures can serve as evidence if you decide to pursue legal action.
Remember to exchange insurance information and phone numbers with the other driver. Taking action right away increases the likelihood of a successful claim.
The Importance of Seeking Medical Attention
Always seek medical attention after a drunk driving accident. There are some injuries, like brain injuries, that do not manifest immediately.
These underlying injuries can only be detected through regular medical checkups and the use of medical devices such as MRI.
Early discovery and treatment can be effective in recovery and preventing complications.
Your medical record can serve as official evidence in legal proceedings and insurance claims negotiations.
Don’t hesitate to consult a physician for medical check-ups to check on your overall well-being.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
After seeking medical attention, you must familiarize yourself with your legal rights. As a victim, you are entitled to compensation for injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and severe suffering. Under most state and federal laws, drunk drivers are held responsible for their negligent actions.
You can request a copy of the police report to help support your case. Police reports often provide an objective and detailed report of what happened.
Hire a drunk driving accident lawyer to help you handle the legal process and uphold your rights. Their specialization allows them to provide helpful legal advice that can be beneficial for your case.
Your legal counsel will diligently work to obtain fair compensation that accurately reflects your legal and medical expenses.
Navigating Insurance Claims
Negotiating insurance claims for drunk driving accidents can be stressful, but having a lawyer by your side will help.
Your lawyer will explain the negotiation process and the proper conduct to exhibit during negotiation.
He or she will tell you what to expect so you can anticipate potential challenges that may arise during the negotiation.Â
Insurance companies typically require insurance information, so it is important to obtain it from all involved parties.
Promptly notify your insurance company of the accident and your compensation rights. Avoid taking responsibility for the incident since it could influence your claim.
Ask a lawyer for help in reviewing the initial offer, as it is often low and may not adequately cover the expenses related to your damages.
In case of a dispute, consult a lawyer for fair compensation. Your lawyer will provide support and regularly follow up on your claims.
Long-Term Recovery and Support Options
Recovery from a brain injury caused by a DUI accident is a lengthy and difficult process that often requires months of physical and emotional rehabilitation.
Consult a brain injury specialist to create a customized rehabilitation program. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and cognitive retraining for muscle strength or memory are some therapies available to TBI victims.
Search for support groups where you can share similar experiences with others to express and validate your feelings.
These groups can provide emotional support by showing empathy and comfort. Surround yourself with close friends and trustworthy family members with whom you feel at ease.
