driver with flask

Impaired motorists cause more than $44 billion in damages every single year. While this is undeniably a hefty sum, you may not be all that surprised by it if you were recently struck by a drunk driver. Chances are your own losses are adding up fast, forcing you to fret about your financial security.

Fortunately, you may be entitled to compensation. You’re going to have to make a strong case for both liability and damages, however, in order to seek it. Before you start putting together your car accident claim, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Do Save Any Evidence You Have Acquired from the Scene

If you turn to a resourceful firm, they should be equipped to conduct a comprehensive investigation in pursuit of valuable evidence. You can support their efforts, however, by preserving any potential proof you’ve already acquired. This might include dash camera footage, statements from eyewitnesses, photographs of the scene, and the official police report.

2. Don’t Say Anything on Record

Whether the local media reaches our or a claims adjuster does, it’s wise to refrain from giving a recorded statement. Discussing what happened on record opens the door for intense scrutiny and, consequently, potential disputes.

Generally speaking, you should refuse to speak on record until your legal team has concluded their investigation and you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Otherwise, anything you say could contain inaccuracies—no matter how slight—that ultimately jeopardize the validity of your claim.

3. Do Start Writing in a Daily Journal

Personal injury attorneys typically advise clients to start writing about their injuries and the daily challenges they pose as soon as possible. These entries will be incredibly helpful when it comes time to demonstrate non-economic damages like mental anguish, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.

Whereas economic damages like hospital bills and lost wages are usually accompanied by documentation, non-monetary losses aren’t, which makes them especially difficult to pursue. When coupled with statements from loved ones and psychological evaluations, however, detailed journal entries can prove invaluable.

4. Don’t Post About the Accident or Its Aftermath on Social Media

Before you seek support from friends and followers online, consider the potential ramifications of doing so if the claims adjuster were to come across the content. Even a seemingly innocuous post about a dinner out with friends could prompt the insurer to challenge your credibility by accusing you of exaggerating your injuries.

Since there’s nothing stopping the opposing party from misrepresenting what you post, it’s best to lay low on social media as long as your case is pending.

Speak with a Tampa DUI Accident Attorney

Was your life forever changed because a drunk driver lost control while behind the wheel? For help seeking the funds needed to put your life back together, turn to Capaz Law Firm, P.A.

Our compassionate team is devoted to helping injured parties pick up the pieces in the wake of tragedy. To schedule a free initial consultation with a DUI accident lawyer in Tampa, submit our Online Contact Form or call 813-551-3907.