Losing a loved one to a drunk driving collision is incredibly devastating because not only is the death unanticipated, but it is also entirely preventable. Sadly, hundreds of families have had to cope with this kind of loss across the state of Iowa in the past decade.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 968 people died in drunk driving collisions throughout the state between 2003 and 2012, and many more sustained serious injuries. If you were hurt in a car accident with an intoxicated motorist and you want to hold him or her accountable, contact Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC.
A compassionate injury lawyer on our team can assess your case to determine if you are eligible for compensation to cover the costs associated with the damages you incurred. Call 319-393-1020 to schedule a free case evaluation with an accident attorney in Cedar Rapids.
Read on to learn what you should do immediately following a collision with a drunk driver:
- Call 911
The sooner you call 911, the sooner police will arrive and take charge of the situation. Call 911 once you get your bearings to request emergency assistance.
Before hanging up, tell the operator the make, model, and color of the vehicle so this information is recorded in the event that the driver tries to flee the scene. The license plate number is also an essential piece of information, but do not put yourself in harm’s way—like standing directly in front of the vehicle, for example—in order to record it.
- Minimize the Risk of Additional Injuries
If possible, pull over to a safe location that is away from the flow of traffic. You should also turn off the ignition to reduce the risk of fire, but leave the hazard lights on so oncoming motorists know to use caution when approaching.
- Film and Photograph the Scene
In most car accidents, photographs can serve as valuable evidence. When an intoxicated motorist is involved, though, you should consider filming the scene in addition to photographing it. If the other driver is slurring, stumbling, or exhibiting other signs of inebriation, you will not capture these details in photos, but you can record them all on video.
- Seek Medical Attention
If you did not sustain life-threatening injuries, you might refuse medical treatment at the scene so those who did can have the paramedics’ full attention. Even if you feel fine, though, you should visit a doctor as soon as possible. Some car accident injuries do not always manifest symptoms right away, but early detection and treatment are essential for a promising prognosis.
Once you have addressed any pressing health concerns, it’s time to start building your personal injury claim. To discuss your case with a seasoned injury lawyer in Cedar Rapids, turn to Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC.
You may be entitled to compensation to pay for medical bills and lost income. Call 319-393-1020 to schedule a free consultation. If you want to learn more about car accident claims in Iowa, visit USAttorneys.com.
