When people under the influence of alcohol or drugs drive a vehicle, they may lose control and hit another vehicle or pedestrian on the road. Many times, the drunk driver runs after hitting the victim, and doesn’t stop to help the injured victim. The extent of personal injury and economic damage can be devastating for the victim. If you have been the victim of a drunk driver, you should know the steps to take after the accident.
If you’re looking to hire an experienced DUI lawyer, there are several steps you can take to find the right professional for your needs. Here’s a general guide to help you in your search:
A drunk driver causing an automobile crash can be charged under criminal law, either with a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated). In either of these cases, the drunk driver can also be taken to court for leaving the scene after causing a drunk driving accident, if that has happened.
Even a misdemeanor hit-and-run is a punishable offense. Driving under the influence of any kind of drug or of alcohol is an offense, and hitting a vehicle or a pedestrian can land the driver in all manner of trouble and woe. Depending upon the circumstances of the crash, a criminal court can sentence a drunk driver to jail, a significant fine, or drivers’ license suspension. Be it the first DUI offense on a record or a repeat offense, a conviction can destroy a drunk driver’s life. So, it is imperative that no one should drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Key points to know about DUI/ DWI cases.
Drunk driving crashes are serious offenses. The laws of every state vary, but every state punishes the driver at fault in such an accident. A drunk driving accident can also cause injuries, or even fatalities, and property damage. On the criminal side, a drunk driving conviction can lead to a hefty penalty. When the victim takes appropriate steps after facing an accident, and files a civil claim, they can also receive compensation for their losses.
Immediately after an accident, calling 911 or another law enforcement number to report the event should be the first priority. Ask the police dispatcher to send an ambulance as well, or call for one separately to seek medical help. If you are able to move and talk, exchange contact information with eyewitnesses. Take photographs or video of the accident and the site to record economic losses and damages.
Once you have completed these initial steps, it would be prudent to consult an experienced DUI lawyer to discuss your situation.
What if you face a Hit and Run or DUI accident?
A drunk driving offense becomes more serious whenever a drunk driver flees the accident scene after causing injury and damage. Every driver on the road has specific legal responsibilities, including stopping at the accident site without fail to render assistance. A drunk driver tends to flee the scene from fear of being arrested and landing in legal difficulty. However, doing this can do more harm than staying.
Therefore if a person runs from an accident scene and is drunk or under the influence of drugs, he can be charged for both offenses. He will be convicted for both under the criminal law.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, around 17,500 individuals lose their lives every year in road accidents. According to the data, thousands are killed in DUI-related auto accidents. People who get injured in such crashes are drunk drivers, drivers of other vehicles on the road, pedestrians, etc. Drunk drivers can risk the lives of many people on the road.
Drunk driving happens because of alcohol or drug use and can cause:
- Lack of concentration while driving;
- Decreased reaction times;
- Impaired judgment;
- Blurred vision.
Due to impairment, a drunk driver can commit the following mistakes:
- Changing lanes incorrectly by failing to notice the traffic around him;
- Failing to stop at a signal due to ignoring a red light;
- Failing to apply brakes or not stopping fully and hitting another car;
- Accelerating or decelerating the car’s speed incorrectly;
- Losing control of speed or balance of the vehicle and causing a chain-reaction crash.
It is essential to keep your eyes wide open and observe your surroundings while driving. If you think any driver is drunk, it is better to keep a safe distance from his vehicle. If he is not driving correctly, you can call the police to inform them about it.
