AVAILABLE 24/7 FREE CONSULTATION
FLORIDA NEW JERSEY NEW YORK
Advocating for Victims of Catastrophic Injuries Caused by Drunk Drivers
Drunk driving remains a critical issue in the United States, contributing significantly to traffic fatalities each year. In 2023, preliminary estimates indicate that 40,990 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes, a slight decrease from the 42,514 fatalities reported in 2022. Despite this reduction, the number of deaths underscores the ongoing severity of impaired driving. On average, one person was killed in a drunk-driving crash every 39 minutes in 2022. Additionally, about 32% of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involved drunk drivers with a BAC of 0.08% or higher (NHTSA).
Here Is What To Do After Being
Hit By A Drunk Driver...
-
Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
-
Move to Safety: Move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic if possible.
-
Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries and seek immediate medical evaluation.
-
Call 911: Report the accident and mention any suspicion of the other driver being under the influence.
-
-
Contact the Police and Gather Evidence
-
Documenting the Scene: The police will document the scene and perform sobriety tests on the other driver.
-
Take Photos and Get Witness Information: Photograph the accident scene and any visible injuries, and collect contact information from witnesses.
-
Exchange Details: Obtain the other driver’s insurance information and note their license plate number.
-
-
Avoid Admitting Fault
-
Stick to Facts: Provide factual information to the police without speculating about fault.
-
Don’t Apologize: Keep your statements factual and concise to avoid any admission of guilt.
-
-
Notify Your Insurance Company
-
Report the Accident: Inform your insurance company as soon as possible and provide necessary details and the police report number.
-
Cooperate Fully: Cooperate with the investigation but avoid speculating about fault or the extent of injuries until all facts are known.
-
-
Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer and Document Everything
-
Seek Legal Advice: Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who specializes in DUI cases to guide you through the legal process and handle communications with insurance companies.
-
Keep Records: Maintain a file of all medical bills, repair estimates, and correspondence related to the accident. Document your injuries and recovery process to demonstrate the impact of the accident on your life.
-
Following these steps ensures your health is prioritized and your legal rights are protected after being hit by a driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol. For support, CONTACT The Sheldrick Law Firm today for a free consultation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What happens when you get hit by a drunk driver?
What happens if I get hit by a drunk driver?
When you get hit by a drunk driver, the aftermath can be devastating. Drunk driving accidents often result in severe injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma. You may experience broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord damage, or other serious conditions requiring extensive medical treatment. Additionally, dealing with insurance claims and legal issues can be overwhelming. It's crucial to document the scene, gather witness statements, and seek immediate medical attention. Contacting a personal injury lawyer experienced in drunk driving cases can help you navigate the complex legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you get hit by a drunk driver, your first priority should be your safety. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Document the accident scene with photos and gather contact information from witnesses. Notify your insurance company and consider consulting a personal injury attorney who specializes in drunk driving accidents. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, help you file a claim, and fight for fair compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses. Drunk driving is a serious offense, and the at-fault driver may face criminal charges in addition to civil liability.
I was hit by a drunk driver can I sue?
Yes, if you were hit by a drunk driver, you can sue the at-fault party for damages. Drunk driving accidents often result in significant injuries and financial losses. By filing a personal injury lawsuit, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. To increase your chances of a successful claim, document the accident scene, obtain a police report, and gather evidence such as medical records and witness statements. It's highly recommended to consult a personal injury lawyer specializing in drunk driving cases to ensure your rights are protected and to help you navigate the legal process effectively.
A drunk driver just hit me, what do I do?
If a drunk driver just hit you, follow these steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights: Call 911 Immediately: Report the accident and request medical assistance. Inform the dispatcher that you suspect the other driver is intoxicated. Ensure Safety: If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. Keep your hazard lights on to alert other drivers. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Capture details like skid marks and the position of vehicles. Gather Information: Collect contact information from the other driver, witnesses, and any responding officers. Note the other driver's insurance details and vehicle information. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get a medical evaluation. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider but avoid making detailed statements until you consult with a lawyer. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer: A lawyer experienced in drunk driving cases can guide you through the legal process, helping you file a claim and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
You can find more Frequently Asked Questions & Answers on our FAQ Page.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO SPEAK WITH A LAWYER?
FREE CONSULTATION
AVAILABLE 24/7
DUI ACCIDENT FORM
Provide your contact information so an attorney can contact you.
Are you searching for a reliable DUI accident lawyer near you?
At The Sheldrick Law Firm, we are devoted to representing victims of DUI accidents throughout Florida, New Jersey, and New York. With our comprehensive legal services, we ensure that no matter where you are, you have access to dedicated and effective legal representation. Our firm is devoted to helping clients navigate the complexities of DUI accident cases, from Miami to New York City. Contact us today for a free consultation and let Kayla Sheldrick fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
FLORIDA DUI ACCIDENT & INJURY RELATED STATISTICS
Impaired-Driving Crashes:
In 2022, Florida experienced 5,746 impaired-driving crashes, including those influenced by drugs, alcohol, or both. A significant portion of these crashes, approximately 568, occurred in March, reflecting a notable increase during spring break and other festivities (FLHSMV) (FLHSMV).
DUI Arrests:
Florida law enforcement issued an estimated 44,001 DUI citations in 2022. These citations highlight the persistent issue of impaired driving and the state's stringent enforcement measures to combat it (FLHSMV).
Attorney Kayla Sheldrick & her team provide professional legal services for DUI accidents and personal injury cases throughout Florida, frequently assisting clients in Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Sarasota, Tampa, Orlando, Winter Park, Key West, Islamorada, and all of the Florida Keys. Attorney Sheldrick is equipped to handle cases involving major highways like I-95, I-75, and I-4. We are committed to accommodating our clients' needs through Zoom calls, hospital visits, or arranging meetings at satellite offices near your location. Our goal is to ensure the legal process is smooth and convenient for you. If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI accident anywhere in Florida CONTACT US for immediate, compassionate legal support.
Florida's Common
DUI Accident Locations
Miami-Dade County - Miami sees frequent DUI incidents, particularly along US-1 and SW 57th Ave.
Hillsborough County - Tampa, with hotspots like W Hillsborough Ave and N Armenia Ave
Sarasota County - Sarasota, including areas like Stickney Point Rd and John Ringling Causeway Bridge
Alachua County Gainesville, particularly around the University of Florida, sees a higher incidence of DUI crashes.
NEW JERSEY DUI ACCIDENT & INJURY RELATED STATISTICS
Impaired-Driving Fatalities:
In 2022, New Jersey recorded 129 fatalities in crashes involving a driver with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. This highlights the severe impact of impaired driving on road safety in the state of New Jersey.
DUI Arrests:
In 2022, New Jersey law enforcement made over 25,000 DUI arrests, demonstrating the state's rigorous efforts to combat impaired driving and enhance road safety.
These statistics underscore the critical need for stringent enforcement and public awareness campaigns to reduce DUI-related incidents and fatalities across New Jersey. You can find more detailed information and statistics on the New Jersey State Police's Crash Report Information page and Fatal Crash Statistics page.
At The Sheldrick Law Firm, we are dedicated to serving clients throughout New Jersey, providing professional legal assistance in but not limited to auto accidents, slip trip & falls, Commercial Facility Negligence, catastrophic injury matters, diminished value, and loss of use claims. Our services extend to all corners of the state, including cities such as Red Bank, Edison, Newark, Point Pleasant Beach, Bay Head, Brick, Toms River, Rumson, Middletown, Colts Neck, and Passaic. We understand that convenience and accessibility are crucial for our clients. Whether you prefer a Zoom consultation, a hospital visit, or an in-person meeting at one of our remote offices, we tailor our approach to meet your needs. Our aim is to make the legal process as seamless and accommodating as possible.
New Jersey's Common
DUI Accident Locations
Garden State Parkway - This major highway sees frequent DUI checkpoints, especially around exits leading to popular destinations and during peak travel times.
Route 17 - A north-south route through Northern New Jersey.
Red Bank - West Front Street and Maple Avenue. This intersection tops the list with the highest number of accidents and injuries. The area is busy due to nearby businesses like Chipotle and 7-11.
Point Pleasant Beach - Popular for its bars and restaurants, such as Jenkinson’s Boardwalk and Martell’s Tiki Bar, this area experiences a high influx of visitors, especially during the summer months.
NEW YORK DUI ACCIDENT & INJURY RELATED STATISTICS
DUI RELATED CRASHED:
In 2022, there were 5,378 DUI-related crashes in New York State, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries. This statistic underscores the persistent danger posed by impaired driving on New York's roads (New York State Police).
DUI Arrests:
On average, New York State sees over 10,000 DUI arrests annually, reflecting the state's rigorous enforcement efforts and the ongoing challenge of preventing impaired driving (State of New York).
The Sheldrick Law Firm is devoted to providing professional legal services across New York, frequently assisting clients in Long Island areas such as Hempstead, Huntington, Islip, Oyster Bay, Smithtown, and Wantagh, as well as major cities including New York City, Buffalo, and Rochester. Our practice focuses on auto accidents, catastrophic injuries, slip and falls, and commercial facility negligence. We offer in-depth legal services for victims of DUI accidents and other serious incidents, handling cases involving traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and broken bones. Immediate action is crucial to secure evidence and navigate legal complexities, ensuring you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
To learn more about attorney Kayla Sheldrick and The Sheldrick Law Firm, please visit our firm overview page.
Next, we delve into the different types of injuries that can result from DUI accidents, offering crucial insights into the immediate steps necessary for medical and legal recovery.
New York's Common
DUI Accident Locations
Suffolk County - This area has the highest rate of drunk driving crashes and fatalities in the state. Notable roads include the Long Island Expressway (I-495) and Sunrise Highway (NY-27)
Jericho - This area has seen significant DUI incidents, including high-profile cases involving fatal crashes.
Levittown - Another hotspot for DUI accidents, with major roads such as Wantagh Avenue and Hempstead Turnpike being particularly problematic.
Islip - This area has a notable number of drunk driving accidents, especially on major routes like Sunrise Highway and Southern State Parkway.
DO I HAVE A CASE?
-
DID YOU SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION WITHIN 14 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF ACCIDENT?
-
DID THE ACCIDENT HAPPEN WITHIN THE PAST TWO YEARS?
-
DID YOU SUSTAIN INJURIES DIRECTLY FROM THE ACCIDENT?
DUI ACCIDENTS often result in a range of serious injuries, impacting victims physically, emotionally, and financially. At The Sheldrick Law Firm, we understand the severity of these injuries and are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal complexities that follow. Below, we discuss some of the most common injuries sustained in DUI accidents, why they are prevalent, and examples of scenarios that can cause such injuries.
Common Injuries and Scenarios
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
-
Explanation: TBIs are caused by a violent blow or jolt to the head, leading to potential long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
-
Scenario: In a high-speed collision, the force of impact can cause the brain to collide with the skull, resulting in a TBI.
-
Explanation: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly affecting mobility and quality of life.
-
Scenario: Rear-end collisions, where the force compresses the spine, can lead to severe spinal cord injuries.
Broken Bones
-
Explanation: Fractures are common in high-impact collisions and often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
-
Scenario: Side-impact crashes, where the vehicle’s side is struck, can cause fractures in the ribs, arms, or legs.
Internal Injuries
-
Explanation: Internal bleeding and damage to organs are serious and often life-threatening, requiring immediate medical attention.
-
Scenario: The force of a head-on collision can cause internal injuries, such as ruptured organs or internal bleeding.
Whiplash
-
Explanation: Whiplash occurs due to the rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, leading to pain and stiffness.
-
Scenario: Low-speed rear-end accidents often result in whiplash, as the sudden stop causes the neck to jerk violently.
Facial Injuries
-
Explanation: Facial fractures and lacerations can result from impact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or airbags.
-
Scenario: Airbag deployment or hitting the dashboard during a crash can cause significant facial injuries.
Psychological Trauma
-
Explanation: The emotional impact of a DUI accident can be severe, leading to conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
-
Scenario: Witnessing a traumatic accident or being involved in a serious crash can lead to long-term psychological effects.
Understanding these common injuries and their causes highlights the importance of immediate medical and legal intervention. At The Sheldrick Law Firm, we are here to provide you with the support and expertise needed to navigate your recovery and secure the compensation you deserve. Continue exploring our website to learn more about how we can assist you in your journey to recovery and legal resolution.
Learn more about different types of injuries and procedures that a person may sustain due to being involved in an accident by visiting our Catastrophic Injury page.
