What To Do if You Are Hit By a Drunk Driver in Manhattan
Driving under the influence is not tolerated in New York and you are involved in an accident while driving under the influence there are serious consequences. If a drunk driver injures another person in an accident they can be charged with vehicular assault and if they cause the death of another person they can be convicted of vehicular manslaughter. Both of these charges are punishable by large fines and imprisonment. If you are the victim of a drunk driving accident you may be eligible for compensation from the negligent driver. There are specific steps that you should follow in order to properly handle the situation, including:
- Calling the police and reporting the accident
- Seeking medical attention in order to protect your health and to have proof of your injuries
- Give your statement to the police so it is in the police report
- Take pictures of the cars, the scene of the accident, and your injuries as proof
- Obtain copies of all police reports as medical records/bills
- Contact a personal injury attorney from Segal & Lax
In a normal accident, an experienced lawyer would fight for you to recover the damages of your pain and suffering along with your bills and damages to your car. When it comes to drunk driving accidents; however, there are punitive damages that can be gained as well. This is beyond compensation for the costs of damages, these are to punish the drunk driver and are often ordered by a judge or jury to further penalize this wrongdoing. The compensation that a skilled Manhattan personal injury attorney can fight for include all of the following damages:
- Medical costs
- Vehicle damage
- Bodily damage
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitative costs
The lawyers at Segal & Lax devote their time to building a strong case for our clients because we understand the pain that can follow a drunk driving accident. If you have been involved in an accident due to the negligence of a drunk driver, call our firm today!