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What to Do If You’re Hit by a Drunk Driver in New York

Getting hit by a drunk driver is one of the most frightening and overwhelming experiences a person can face. In addition to the immediate shock and injuries, accident victims are often left with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and long-term emotional distress. If this has happened to you or a loved one, knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference in protecting your health, your rights, and your financial future.

This guide explains what to do after a drunk driving accident in New York and how a personal injury lawyer in New York can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact a Legal Professional for Support

If you or a loved one has been hit by a drunk driver, don’t face the process alone. Help is available. An experienced attorney can:

  • Guide you through the legal process step by step
  • Collect and preserve evidence from the accident
  • Handle communication with insurance companies
  • Fight for fair compensation for your medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering

📍 Address: 147 East 82nd Street, Suite 6B, New York, NY 10028
📞 Call: (917) 941-4094
📧 Email: Ira@irapintel.com

Step 1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get medical care right away. Some conditions, such as internal bleeding, concussions, or whiplash, may not appear immediately but can worsen without treatment. Medical records also play a crucial role in proving the extent of your injuries later in your claim. If your injuries were caused by a negligent driver, consulting a drunk driver accident lawyer in New York can help you protect your rights and strengthen your case.

Step 2: Call the Police and Report the Accident

Contacting law enforcement is a legal requirement in drunk driving accidents. A police report provides an official record of the crash, documents any suspected intoxication, and becomes vital evidence in your case. Make sure to ask how you can obtain a copy of the report for your records.

Step 3: Collect Evidence at the Scene

If you’re physically able, gathering evidence at the accident scene can strengthen your case. Useful evidence includes:

  • Photos and videos of the vehicles, injuries, and road conditions
  • Witness names and contact information
  • The other driver’s insurance and license details

If you cannot collect evidence due to your injuries, ask someone you trust to do it on your behalf.

Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Keep in mind, however, that insurance adjusters may try to minimize payouts. Avoid making detailed statements about fault or the extent of your injuries until you have spoken with a legal professional.

Step 5: Speak with a Personal Injury Lawyer in New York

Navigating the aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to heal. A skilled personal injury lawyer in New York can:

  • Investigate the circumstances of the crash
  • Gather medical and accident evidence
  • Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
  • Pursue full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering

Having an attorney ensures you don’t settle for less than what your case is worth.

What Compensation Can You Seek After a Drunk Driving Accident?

Victims of drunk driving accidents in New York may be eligible for compensation that includes:

  • Medical expenses (hospital bills, rehabilitation, prescriptions)
  • Lost income if you are unable to work
  • Property damage to your vehicle
  • Pain and suffering for the physical and emotional toll
  • Future expenses related to long-term injuries

Every case is different, so the amount you can recover depends on the severity of your injuries and the impact on your life.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Time is critical after a drunk driving accident. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories can fade, and deadlines for filing claims may pass. Taking swift action helps protect your rights and strengthens your ability to secure maximum compensation.

Internal Links for Further Guidance

  • Learn more about personal injury claims and how they work.
  • Review guidance on filing claims for different types of accidents, including motor vehicle and commercial accidents.

Contact Information

If you or a loved one has been hit by a drunk driver, don’t face the process alone. Help is available.

📍 Address: 147 East 82nd Street Suite 6B, New York, NY 10028
📞 Call: (917) 941-4094
📧 Email: Ira@irapintel.com

FAQs

1. How long do I have to file a claim after being hit by a drunk driver in New York?
 In New York, there are strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer in New York as soon as possible ensures your case is filed on time.

2. What if the drunk driver is uninsured or underinsured?
 You may still have options to recover damages through your own insurance policy or other legal avenues. An attorney can help identify all potential sources of compensation.

3. Do I need a lawyer even if the other driver was clearly at fault?
 Yes. Even in clear cases of fault, insurance companies may attempt to reduce payouts. A lawyer helps protect your rights and fights for full compensation.

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