If you have been involved in a drunk driving accident, you may feel overwhelmed with the next steps that you need to take. It is true that the legal system can be complex and difficult to navigate in Hendersonville, NC, and elsewhere, but having an experienced DUI victim lawyer by your side can help to ensure that your case is presented effectively and you receive any compensation that you are entitled to.
First Step – Seek Medical Attention
Before turning your attention to legal matters, it is vital that you seek medical attention after being involved in a drunk driving accident even if you feel fine. Some types of injuries, such as concussions and internal bleeding, may not immediately display any symptoms, but leaving them could have severe consequences.
Receiving proper medical care could also help you with any legal case you pursue afterward. Medical records that clearly demonstrate any injuries you suffered immediately after the accident, and during your recovery, can be used if you decide to seek compensation.
Securing Legal Counsel from a DUI Victim Lawyer
Once you have ensured that you are safe and your medical needs are being taken care of, securing legal counsel as soon as possible is sensible. An experienced lawyer who knows the complexities of drunk driving cases can help with your insurance claim, and with any personal injury case you may pursue.
Dealing with Insurance
Now is a good time to get to grips with your insurance policy by reading through the documentation. You will need to know what your insurance policy will cover and what the process of filing a claim will be. Having a lawyer look over any offers or responses from your insurance company can help to ensure that you don’t agree to anything that wouldn’t be in your best interests.
Pursuing a Personal Injury Claim
As a victim of a drunk driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation for any injuries you have suffered. These can include economic consequences, such as loss of earnings and medical bills. They can also include non-economic consequences, such as pain and suffering, emotional pain, and PTSD.
Negligence Per Se
In car accident cases that do not have a drunk driving element, personal injury claims are subject to contributory negligence. This means that any compensation you receive is based on the percentage of the accident you are responsible for. If you were 20% responsible, then you would receive 80% of the compensation you are entitled to.
In drunk driving cases, however, negligence comes into play. Under this law, any driver who is found to have been intoxicated when the accident occurred is 100% responsible. This can help to streamline the process as there is no need to prove who is at fault.
How To Find the Right Lawyer
Using a lawyer who specializes in representing drunk driving victims will help to boost your chances of receiving any compensation you are entitled to. Our lawyers are experienced and knowledgeable about all aspects of the law surrounding drunk driving accidents and are passionate about ensuring that all of our clients receive dedicated, compassionate, and professional representation.
If you have been a victim of a drunk driving accident, contact Yelverton Litigators in Hendersonville, NC, and Charleston, SC to find out how our team can help you.
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