5 Steps to Take after a Drunk Driver Accident Austin, TX

If a drunk driver caused your accident and injuries in Austin, we understand that you want justice on many levels. These car crashes can alter your life in many costly ways and are entirely preventable, so it is only natural that you want to hold the drunk driver fully accountable for your losses.

At Dow Law Firm, we are here to help guide you through the aftermath of the drunk driver accident in Austin, TX, and provide the necessary legal support. Let us take care of your legal claim while you focus on your physical recovery.

Keys Steps After a Drunk Driver Accident in Austin, TX

An accident with a drunk driver can have serious consequences, both physically and emotionally. It’s crucial to take the right steps to protect your well-being and your legal rights. Here are five key steps you should take after a drunk driver accident in Austin, TX:

1. Call the Police

The first and most important step after any accident, especially one involving a drunk driver, is to call the police. The police will arrive on the scene and assess the situation. Make sure to provide the police with a detailed account of what happened, including any observations or suspicions you may have about the driver’s intoxication. Often, officers will arrest a driver for driving while intoxicated (DWI) if they determine the driver is impaired. They will also file an official report. Criminal records and police reports will be critical in proving the drunk driver’s liability and supporting any civil action you later take. 

2. Get Medical Treatment

Your physical state should be your top priority after a car accident. If emergency response workers recommend ambulance transportation, always listen. Some common injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent, so you need them professionally diagnosed. Even if you think you can tough out an injury, many conditions worsen with time, and a prompt diagnosis is necessary to file an injury claim later on.

A healthcare professional will assess your condition, document your injuries, and provide appropriate treatment. Additionally, your medical records will be important evidence to establish the extent of your injuries and support your claim for compensation.

3. Never Assume Criminal Charges Will Bring You Justice for Your Injuries

While the drunk driver may face criminal charges for their actions, remember that criminal cases do not guarantee compensation for your injuries. Criminal proceedings are focused on punishing the offender, while civil proceedings, such as a personal injury lawsuit, focus on compensating the victim for their losses. After a drunk driver accident in Austin, TX, you must take proactive steps to seek compensation, even if the driver was arrested and charged. 

4. Contact a Drunk Driver Accident Lawyer in Austin

The legal process can still be complicated, even if the driver was convicted of DWI. Consulting with a drunk driver accident lawyer in Austin can ease the burden and protect your interests. An attorney from Dow Law Firm has the experience to handle your case effectively. We gather evidence to build a strong case, including any criminal convictions, and negotiate with insurance companies for compensation that fully covers your losses.

5. Allow Your Attorney to Handle Insurance Communications

Dealing with insurance companies is often an uphill battle, especially when you’re recovering from injuries and trying to piece your life back together after a drunk driving accident. By hiring the right attorney, you can rest assured knowing they will handle all communications with the insurance companies. This means adjusters will not take advantage of you by wrongfully seeking to limit their liability.

Learn More from a Drunk Driver Accident Attorney in Austin Today

After a drunk driver accident in Austin, TX, reach out to our team at Dow Law Firm. Contact us online or call 512-240-9951 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you.