Drunk driving is one of the most common causes of accidents on our roads. When you’re injured in this type of accident, a DUI accident lawyer can help you recover damages. However, it’s important to know how to react following the accident. Knowing what to do will help you handle the situation better and improve your chances of a positive outcome.

1. Gather Evidence at the Scene
The very first thing you should do is to assess your injuries to the best of your ability. If you feel able to move about, you should begin collecting evidence. This means gathering contact and insurance information from the other drivers, asking for contact information from witnesses, and requesting a copy of the accident report from the investigating officers at the scene. You should also use the camera on your phone to take pictures of the damages to vehicles and other property.

2. Seek Medical Attention
You should get a medical evaluation immediately and seek treatment for any injuries you sustained as soon as possible. Even if you don’t feel the effects of any injuries, it’s important to realize some symptoms may take time to develop. This is especially true for head trauma, neck injuries, and spinal damage. These conditions can take hours or days to manifest, but may ultimately become serious. Additionally, declining to seek medical treatment can negatively impact your case. Some people delay treatment to allow their injuries to worsen, so they can file a larger claim. If the courts suspect you of doing this, you may be found partially negligent for the damages. This can result in a reduced award, or the judge may throw your case out altogether.

3. Consult an Attorney
Almost immediately after the accident, an insurance adjuster will contact you with a settlement offer. While this is a way to get quick cash, it will be a low offer and likely will not cover the medical expenses and damages you have suffered. This is why it’s important to schedule a free consultation with The Dinelli Law Firm at your earliest opportunity. A drunk driving accident attorney will discuss your case with you and use their expertise to evaluate your situation. They can negotiate a fair settlement for you, or, if the insurance company seems unwilling to compromise, they will be prepared to take your case to court. Working with the legal professionals at The Dinelli Law Firm will increase your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome in your case.