Drunk driving accidents are an ever-present threat in Acworth, Georgia. And, while people who drive drunk could have their license suspended or serve jail time, the victims of drunk drivers can often face more debilitating consequences. From serious injuries to mounting medical bills, being involved in a drunk driving accident can be traumatic, painful, and financially devastating. Don’t try to navigate this difficult time alone. Talk to an Acworth drunk driving accident lawyer.
The lawyers at John Foy & Associates are here to help. Our attorneys have over 20 years of experience handling drunk driving accidents—and helping victims win cases. Drunk driving accident victims need a compassionate and knowledgeable lawyer who can guide them through an emotional time, and one who knows how to get results.
The lawyers at John Foy & Associates will work tirelessly on your behalf to get you the best possible outcome. Let us give you a free consultation. Contact us today at 404-400-4000 for a free consultation and take the first step to getting the compensation you deserve.
What do I Do When a Drunk Driver Hits Me?
If you’ve been hit by a driver who you think is drunk, there are steps you need to take—both for your own wellbeing and to protect your rights. If you or anyone needs emergency medical attention, that should be your first priority. Otherwise, here are steps you should take to protect yourself:
1. Call the Police
This should be the first thing you do if you are hit by a drunk driver. In Georgia, the law requires that most car accidents be reported—and it’s also in your best interest. Getting the police on the scene will mean you have the accident officially documented, and the police are likely to ask the drunk driver for a breath test. This can help you later prove that the driver was intoxicated and strengthen your insurance claim or lawsuit.
2. Be Careful What You Say
The police officer will ask several questions to try to pinpoint exactly what happen. Answer the officer’s questions, but recognize that this is an emotionally charged moment and refrain from exaggeration or speculation. Only provide information that is asked for. Most importantly, do not reply “no” when asked if you are injured. Car accidents leave people with a rush of adrenaline and your injuries may not become evident until later.
3. Collect Information
Be sure to collect as much information as possible at the time of the accident. This includes the driver’s insurance and contact information, information from possible witnesses, as well as pictures of the scene of the accident.
(If you don’t feel comfortable speaking with the intoxicated driver, have the police officer collect the information when he/she arrives.) Lastly, be sure to find out how to get your police report and pick up a copy as soon as it is available.
4. Seek Medical Attention
It is always important to get medical treatment as soon as possible. Some injuries may not present pain symptoms for hours or even days, yet there could still be something wrong with you. Early treatment by a doctor can address injuries before they become chronic. Getting your injuries officially documented by a medical professional also helps prove your injury claim. Not doing so can hurt your chances of getting the biggest possible financial recovery.
5. Hire an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
The best thing drunk driving victims can do is to hire a car accident attorney, as soon as possible after the accident. An experienced personal injury attorney will bring a wealth of knowledge to your case, know how to negotiate with the insurance company, and give you the best chance at getting the maximum amount possible.
If it’s already been days (or more) since your accident, that’s alright. Most drunk driving victims are still in shock at the scene, and it’s not too late to protect your rights—but the sooner you take action, the better. Your lawyer can launch a full investigation into the accident and help build the evidence you need even if you didn’t get it at the scene.
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How do I Get the Best Financial Recovery Possible?
Drunk driving accidents can be overwhelming, and you may be tempted to accept an offer as quickly as possible to put everything behind you and move on. This is understandable—but it can cost you. If you want to make sure you get the full amount of damages you deserve, the best thing you can do is take the time to talk to a lawyer before you accept any offer from the insurance company. Your lawyer can launch their own investigation, gather the evidence you need, and pressure the insurance company to negotiate.
Lawyers know that the “quick money” an insurance company offers is rarely worth it. Here’s why:
A Quick Pffer Is in the Insurance Company’s Interest – Not Yours
Insurance companies want to settle early so that they can label the case closed and keep their expenses as low as possible. They also know that most people without a lawyer have no clear sense what their claim is really worth. Never accept the first offer from an insurer without getting a legal opinion.
You Need to Know Your Medical Outcome Before You Agree to a Price
That mean’s you’ve been fully assessed by a medical professional, your condition has stabilized, and treatment is working as expected. This is important because, once you accept insurance money, you will be required to sign a release of liability form which will prevent you from claiming any further injuries.No accident victim wants to find out they have a medical complication months after the accident, but least of all when insurance money is no longer available.
The Result of the Drunk Driver’s DUI Case May Give You Leverage
If the drunk driver has either been convicted of or pled guilty to drunk driving, it gives you massive evidence to prove fault in your case. It also means the insurance company will likely seek to avoid appearing before a court, since juries are sympathetic to victims of drunk drivers.
Don’t let the insurance company put dollar signs in your eyes, only to find out it’s a fraction of what you need. Get an objective legal opinion from a lawyer you can trust.
Talk to an Acworth Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Today
When you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, an experienced attorney is the best weapon you have. John Foy & Associates has over 20 years of experience and we only work for the victims. Let us give you a FREE consultation to help answer your questions. Fill out the form to the right or call 404-400-4000 and get your FREE consultation today.
(404) 400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
