Driving under the influence (DUI) can have a profound and lasting impact on individuals involved in an incident, beyond physical harm. Emotional trauma, guilt, shame, and anxiety can arise from the feeling of responsibility for their actions, making it challenging to recover from the incident and regain trust.
Following such an incident, knowing what to do can protect your legal rights and general well-being. Nevertheless, navigating these complicated legal processes by yourself could be overwhelming. Contact a DUI accident lawyer in Houston for assistance.
Stay Calm and Ensure Your Safety
It’s critical to remain composed and take the necessary action to protect everyone’s safety following the incident.
Move to a Safe Location
If one gets into a road accident, they should move to the side of the road or to an adjacent parking lot. That way, you can protect yourself from danger and avoid further accidents.
Check for Injuries
After reaching a safe spot, check for sustained injuries. If there’s anyone injured, call 911 immediately and ask for medical assistance.
Contact the Authorities
After ensuring that everyone is safe, reporting about the incident to authorities is important. One must report the incident to law enforcement for legal as well as insurance purposes.
Report the Accident to the Police
Always call the police after a DUI accident, no matter how minor the incident seems. A formal police report will be required for future legal or insurance claims. This report will document the details of the accident and establish whether alcohol or drugs were involved.
Cooperate with Law Enforcement
Upon cops’ arrival, be cooperative and give them the needed information. Do not make any remarks which may be misinterpreted as acceptance of responsibility. Any discussions on whether you had been drinking or allowing speculation on the details should be avoided until you’ve consulted legal counsel.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
One of the most important steps after a DUI accident is collecting evidence. When you contact a DUI accident lawyer in Houston for legal assistance, this evidence will be essential for developing a good case.
Take Photographs and Videos
With your phone, take pictures of the accident scene, road condition, vehicle damage and any visible injury. These images will later serve as crucial evidence when you decide to take legal action or negotiate a settlement.
Gather Witness Information
If there are witnesses, politely ask for their contact information. Also, collect a brief statement of what they saw. Independent accounts of the incident can provide critical support in proving fault or confirming details of the accident.
Document Details
Note down everything you can recall regarding the collision, including the other driver’s time, place, and actions. Your report should also include information on whether the other driver displayed signs of intoxication.
Get Medical Help Right Away
Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention is crucial after a DUI accident. Injuries may not show immediately but can appear later.
Get a Medical Examination
Visit the closest medical facility or physician for a comprehensive assessment. A medical report can guarantee your well-being and offer proof if you need to file a personal injury claim. Additionally, you might have to get a BAC (Blood Alcohol Level) report as well if you were at fault for driving under the influence.
Follow Up on Your Health
Keep an eye on your health in the days that follow the collision. Keep track of medical treatments and diagnoses, and attend any recommended follow-up appointments. These medical reports will be necessary if you want compensation for your injury and file a personal injury lawsuit.
Inform Your Insurance Company
The first step is to notify your insurer. Your insurer will provide the information required to complete the claim. Until you’ve spoken with a DUI accident lawyer in Houston, refrain from admitting responsibility or offering speculated details regarding the incident.
Contact a DUI Accident Lawyer in Houston
Contacting an attorney is among the essential steps following a DUI accident. A legal professional can safeguard your rights.
Importance of Legal Counsel
Legal issues regarding DUIs can be complex. They often include criminal charges and civil lawsuits. Therefore, it becomes essential that you seek legal advice from an expert attorney to protect your rights and obtain just recompense. When involved in such instances, Contact a DUI accident lawyer in Houston.
How to Choose the Right DUI Accident Lawyer
There are a few things to consider while choosing the best DUI accident lawyer Houston. These elements include the lawyer’s prior experience with comparable issues, a solid portfolio showcasing their skill, and evaluations from previous clients who were happy with the resolution.
Conclusion
A DUI accident can be overwhelming, but knowing the right steps can protect your rights. Awareness of the possible legal ramifications is vital because DUI accidents may result in civil and criminal fines. After ensuring safety and gathering evidence, contacting a DUI accident lawyer in Houston is crucial for legal guidance. This ensures you’re prepared to handle the aftermath and safeguard your future.
