Legal Steps to Take After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver in Philadelphia

Introduction

Getting involved in an auto accident is never easy, and it becomes even more complicated when the other party is under the influence of alcohol. If you find yourself in such a distressing situation in Philadelphia, it's essential to understand the legal steps you should take to protect your rights and pursue potential compensation. This guide aims to provide valuable insights into what actions you need to undertake after being hit by a drunk driver. Whether you're searching for "auto accident lawyers" or "car accident lawyers near me," knowing what to do next can significantly impact your case.

Legal Steps to Take After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver in Philadelphia

When you've been struck by a drunk driver, your immediate focus should be on safety and health. However, once the dust settles, there are several legal steps you'll need to consider.

1. Ensure Safety First

The first thing you should do after any auto accident is ensure everyone involved is safe. Here’s how:

• Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries.
• Move to Safety: If possible, move vehicles out of traffic.
• Call Emergency Services: Contact 911 for medical assistance and police support.

2. Document the Accident Scene

Proper documentation is crucial for your case:

• Take Photos: Snap pictures of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
• Gather Witness Information: If bystanders saw the accident, ask for their contact details.

3. Contact the Police

It’s vital to report the incident:

• File a Police Report: A police report will serve as an official record of the accident.
• Obtain Incident Number: This will be essential for insurance claims.

4. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be apparent right away:

• Visit a Doctor: Get checked out as soon as possible.
• Follow Up on Treatments: Keep records of all medical visits related to the accident.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Tell reliable auto accident law firm your insurance provider about the accident promptly:

• Provide Accurate Information: Be truthful about what happened.
• Discuss Coverage Options: Understand how your policy applies to this situation.

6. Consult with Auto Accident Lawyers

Engaging an experienced auto accident attorney can make a significant difference:

• Look for "accident attorneys" who specialize in cases involving drunk driving.
• Schedule consultations with "car accident injury attorneys."

7. Collect Evidence

Evidence collection strengthens your case:

• Gather police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
• Keep all correspondence with insurance companies organized.

8. Understand Pennsylvania's DUI Laws

Understanding local laws can help frame your case effectively:

• Research Pennsylvania’s DUI penalties.
• Know how these laws apply to civil cases against drunk drivers.

9. File a Personal Injury Claim

If you're considering pursuing compensation:

• Discuss with your lawyer whether filing a claim is appropriate based on evidence.
• Understand types of damages you can claim (medical bills, lost wages).

10. Consider Potential Compensation Types

What kind of compensation can you seek?

Economic Damages

These include measurable financial losses such as:

| Damage Type | Examples | |----------------------|-------------------------------| | Medical Expenses | Hospital bills, therapy costs | | Lost Wages | Income lost due to recovery | | Vehicle Repairs | Costs associated with repairs |

Non-Economic Damages

These are subjective but impactful:

| Damage Type | Examples | |----------------------|------------------------------| | Pain and Suffering | Emotional distress | | Loss of Companionship | Impact on relationships |

FAQs

1. What should I do immediately after being hit by a drunk driver?

Immediately check for injuries, call emergency services, move vehicles if safe, document the scene with photos, and gather witness information.

2. How long do I have to file a claim after an auto accident in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim.

3. Will my insurance cover damages if I was hit by a drunk driver?

Yes, if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or collision coverage; however, it’s best to consult with an auto injury lawyer about specifics regarding your situation.

4. What types of damages can I recover after being hit by a drunk driver?

You may recover economic damages like medical expenses and lost wages as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

5. Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault?

Yes! Pennsylvania follows comparative negligence rules that allow you to recover damages even if you were partially at fault; however, compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

6. How much does it cost to hire an auto accident attorney?

Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis—meaning they only get paid if you win your case—so upfront costs are generally minimal or nonexistent.

Conclusion

Navigating the aftermath of being hit by a drunk driver can feel overwhelming; however, understanding the legal steps involved provides clarity during this stressful time. From ensuring safety first to consulting with experienced auto accident attorneys who understand state laws and insurance processes—every step counts toward achieving justice and securing rightful compensation for your losses.

Remember that hiring qualified lawyers specializing in automobile accidents plays an essential role in strengthening your case against negligent drivers while helping alleviate some burdens during recovery phases post-collision incidents like these.

Feel free to reach out with questions or concerns regarding legal representation or ongoing claims processes—taking proactive measures now will pave the way forward toward healing both physically and financially moving ahead!

This article serves as comprehensive guidance on dealing with situations involving drunk drivers in Philadelphia while emphasizing consultation with experienced professionals like "auto injury lawyers near me" throughout this challenging journey!