What Happens After You’re Hit by an Intoxicated Driver?

Posted On May 15, 2017 In Helpful Information

New information has surfaced about the driver who allegedly caused the large bus crash involving the death of 12 people in Uvalde county, TX. The driver allegedly was on prescription drugs and stated that he was texting during the accident after he was caught on video swerving over the edge line more than 37 times. People are hit by intoxicated drivers on a regular basis, and there are some steps you can take to see if you were hit by an intoxicated driver in an auto accident.

How Do You Know if A Driver Is Intoxicated?

• Look for signs prior to the accident: Swerving on the road or stopping slowly at a stoplight can be signs that a driver is intoxicated. While communicating with a driver after an accident, listen for slurred speech and look at the driver to see if they have a vacant or dull look in their face. Are they having trouble communicating with you?
• Contact the police: This is a good idea in any kind of accident. A police officer will be better able to tell if someone is intoxicated, and having a police report of your accident can make your case stronger.

How Do You Know If You’re Getting Enough Coverage for Your Accident?

When filing a claim in civil court against a drunk driver, several factors will be taken into consideration. How bad your vehicle was damaged, how severe the injuries sustained were, and how negligent and intoxicated the driver was will be considered.

• Uninsured Drivers: In the event that the intoxicated driver that hits you does not have insurance, your insurance company may have to cover the damages you received with Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage. If you do not have Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage, you can consult the help of a car accident attorney to explore other options.
• Dram shop claims: If the circumstances are right, you can attempt to make a claim against the bar or restaurant that sold the alcohol to the drunk driver.

Watch Out for Insurance Companies

The other driver’s insurance company may call you and offer you a settlement quickly after the accident. Insurance companies are trying to offer you as little as possible and quickly, so future damages may not be considered.  Contacting a Lufkin drunk driving accident attorney can help you make the right decisions following an accident involving a drunk driver.