Getting hit by a drunk driver is one of the most traumatic and frustrating types of car accidents. Not only is it entirely preventable, but it’s often accompanied by severe injuries, emotional distress, and a sense of injustice. If you’ve found yourself in this painful situation, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone either. Knowing exactly what to do after a drunk driving accident is critical to protecting your health, your legal rights, and your ability to receive full compensation.
At My Super Lawyer, we understand that no one wakes up expecting to be the victim of a drunk driving crash. That’s why we created a simple platform to help injured victims like you connect with the perfect personal injury lawyer for your case. Our network includes only top-performing attorneys with proven track records—so you can focus on healing while your attorney fights for the justice you deserve.
Let’s walk you through exactly what to do after being hit by a drunk driver—and how My Super Lawyer can help you every step of the way.
Step 1: Prioritize Medical Attention
Your health comes first. Even if you feel okay after the crash, adrenaline can mask symptoms of injury. Call 911 and request emergency medical help at the scene. If you’re not transported by ambulance, make sure to follow up with your doctor as soon as possible. Soft tissue injuries, head trauma, and internal damage may not be immediately apparent but can become serious over time.
In addition to protecting your well-being, medical records serve as key evidence in your injury claim. Make sure all symptoms are documented clearly, and follow all treatment recommendations closely.
Step 2: Call the Police and Report the Crash
Drunk driving accidents must be reported to law enforcement. A police officer will come to the scene, conduct field sobriety tests on the other driver if they suspect intoxication, and file an official accident report. This police report is a powerful piece of evidence in your case.
Be honest but brief with the officer. Stick to the facts, and avoid making assumptions or saying anything that could later be used against you. Let the officer determine who was at fault based on evidence and witness accounts.
If the other driver is arrested for DUI (driving under the influence), that criminal case will be separate from your civil injury claim—but it will support your case for compensation.
Step 3: Gather Evidence—If You’re Able
If your injuries allow, take the time to document the scene. This includes:
- Taking photos of both vehicles, the surrounding area, traffic signs, and any visible injuries
- Getting names and contact info of any witnesses
- Writing down your recollection of events while it’s still fresh
Don’t worry if you’re unable to do this—an experienced attorney from the My Super Lawyer network can help reconstruct the accident and gather additional evidence later.
Step 4: Never Talk to the Insurance Company Alone
After a drunk driving accident, the other driver’s insurance company may contact you quickly—and often with one goal: minimize the payout. They might offer a lowball settlement or try to get you to say something they can use to deny your claim.
Don’t fall for it.
Before you speak with any insurance company representatives, talk to a qualified injury lawyer. At My Super Lawyer, we match you with a vetted attorney who will deal with the insurance companies on your behalf—so you don’t have to worry about getting tricked or underpaid.
Step 5: Understand the Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To
If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, the law is on your side—and so is your future. A skilled attorney can help you pursue full compensation for:
- Medical expenses (including future care)
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Punitive damages, in some cases, to punish the drunk driver for their reckless behavior
Drunk driving cases often result in higher settlements and verdicts due to the egregious nature of the offense. But to maximize your compensation, you need a lawyer who understands how to build a compelling case and isn’t afraid to take it to court if necessary.
Step 6: Take Care of Your Mental and Emotional Health
Being hit by a drunk driver doesn’t just leave physical injuries. Many victims suffer from PTSD, anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders in the weeks and months following the crash. Don’t hesitate to seek mental health support—whether through therapy, counseling, or support groups.
An experienced attorney can also pursue compensation for emotional distress, recognizing that your trauma matters just as much as your physical pain.
Step 7: Let My Super Lawyer Match You with the Right Lawyer for Your Case
Not all injury lawyers are the same. Some take on too many cases, offer cookie-cutter legal advice, or settle for less than you deserve just to close the case fast. At My Super Lawyer, we’ve done the work of vetting lawyers across the country based on performance, success rate, client satisfaction, and experience with drunk driving accident cases.
We’ve helped thousands of injury victims find the right lawyer—not just any lawyer. Our platform is:
- Fast: Get matched in minutes
- Accurate: We match based on your unique needs
- Proven: Lawyers in our network have a 99% success rate
- Trusted: Over $2 billion recovered for clients nationwide
Final Thoughts: Don’t Settle for Less Than You Deserve
Being hit by a drunk driver is one of the most devastating—and infuriating—types of accidents. You didn’t ask for this. You did nothing wrong. But now, you’re left to pick up the pieces—physically, emotionally, and financially.
You deserve justice. You deserve full compensation. And you deserve a legal team that will fight for every dollar you’re owed.
That’s where My Super Lawyer comes in. We help you find the perfect lawyer for your drunk driving case—someone who won’t back down from insurance companies and who knows how to win. With a 99% success rate and more than $2 billion recovered for our clients, My Super Lawyer is the trusted platform for injury victims across the country.
If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, don’t wait. Let us help you match with a top-rated attorney who will put your needs first and fight for your future.
Your recovery starts here—with My Super Lawyer. Contact us today for a free case consultation at 866-680-1181.
