What Should I Do if the At-Fault Drunk Driver Fled the Scene of the Accident?
Sometimes, motorists drive off after causing an accident, especially if they are driving under the influence (DUI). What should you do if the at-fault drunk driver fled the scene of the accident in Arizona?
In this situation, make sure that you immediately contact the police and share all the information you have about the responsible driver. You should also seek medical treatment and contact a Phoenix drunk driving accident lawyer for more advice.
Our team at Zanes Law can guide you through the legal process after a hit-and-run when you call or fill out our online contact form.
Write Down All Information About the Drunk Driver
We understand the confusion, pain, and frustration you may feel after a hit-and-run accident with a drunk driver. In this situation, we recommend that you quickly write down as much information about the driver and their vehicle as you can.
Writing everything down quickly can help you preserve your memory of the accident and collect information that could identify the driver. Helpful information may include:
The driver’s license plate number
The make, model, and color of the drunk driver’s vehicle
Any distinguishing features of the car (like tinted windows or fancy rims)
The driver’s physical description
The police may use this information when looking for the drunk driver. You may also write down information about the direction the driver took when leaving the scene of the wreck.
Contact the Police After a Driver Flees the Scene of an Accident
It’s also essential that you call the police to quickly report any hit-and-run accident. Wait at the scene of the accident until law enforcement personnel arrive, and provide them with all the information you have about the collision and the responsible driver.
The police can file a report about your accident. This document serves as proof that your accident happened when and where you say it did, which can support any claim you make for compensation.
While you wait for the police to arrive, you can collect evidence from the accident scene. Get contact information from any eyewitnesses and take pictures of:
Your injuries
The damage to your vehicle
Damage caused by the accident to the surrounding area
Should You Follow the Drunk Driver After an Accident?
You should not attempt to follow any driver after a hit-and-run. Drivers who flee the scene of an accident may act in unpredictable and dangerous ways, especially if they’re intoxicated. Allow the police to carry out any search for the other driver to protect your safety.
Seek Medical Care After an Accident by a Drunk Driver
Make sure that you promptly get treatment for any injuries caused by a drunk driver. Quickly getting medical care can establish that the accident caused your injuries, making it easier to secure compensation.
We understand the severe effects of motor vehicle accidents, which could leave you with broken bones, a concussion, burns, and internal injuries. Fast medical treatment can also improve your chances of making a full recovery.
Contact a Lawyer After a Hit-and-Run by a Drunk Driver
Finally, the professionals recommend contacting a Phoenix car accident lawyer following a hit-and-run accident. An attorney will provide you with additional suggestions based on the specifics of your situation and guide you through the legal process.
You may have a chance to secure compensation after a hit-and-run caused by a drunk driver. For example, your attorney may help you seek damages through your insurance policy, especially if you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
An attorney can also help you file a claim against the drunk driver if the police identify them. You could receive compensation to cover your:
Current and future medical expenses
Lost pay and reduced earning potential
Property repair costs
Pain, emotional anguish, and mental suffering
We may even discuss filing a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf after a hit-and-run accident. The at-fault driver could face additional criminal charges for driving under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident.
You can learn more about these accidents and your legal options by reaching out to our professional team for assistance.
Speak to Us After a Hit-and-Run Caused by a Drunk Driver
Find out what you should do if the at-fault drunk driver flees the scene of your accident in Arizona by contacting our team at Zanes Law. We’ll walk you through each step of the legal process for securing compensation in this situation.
You can rely on us to offer you support throughout this challenging period. Call or complete our online contact form to get answers to your questions.