What to Do If You Suspect a Truck Driver Was Under the Influence During an Accident

Truck accidents can have devastating consequences due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. When such accidents occur, and you suspect that the truck driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the situation becomes even more critical.

Taking the right steps immediately following the accident is crucial to protect your rights and ensure that justice is served.

Put Safety First

Your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident should be your top priority. Immediately check for injuries and call emergency services if anyone is hurt. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic to avoid further accidents or injuries.

Contact the Authorities

As soon as you are safe, call 911 to report the accident. Inform the dispatcher that you suspect the truck driver may be under the influence. Law enforcement officers are trained to handle such situations and will conduct a thorough investigation, including administering field sobriety tests and potentially taking the driver into custody if they are found to be impaired.

Gather Evidence at the Scene

While waiting for the authorities to arrive, collect as much evidence as possible. This can help strengthen your case later on.

Key pieces of evidence include:

• Photographs: Take clear photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs and any visible injuries. Capture different angles to provide a comprehensive view.
  
  
• Witness Information: If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information and a brief statement of what they saw. Witnesses can provide valuable testimony if the case goes to court.
  
  
• Driver’s Behavior: Note any signs of impairment exhibited by the truck driver, such as slurred speech, unsteady movements or the smell of alcohol or drugs. If possible, discreetly record videos of the driver’s behavior without putting yourself at risk.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to seek medical attention after an accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical professional can document your condition, which can be crucial for your case. Make sure that all injuries, no matter how minor, are recorded in your medical records.

Document Your Observations

As soon as you can, write down your recollection of the events leading up to, during, and after the accident. Include details about the driver’s behavior, statements they made, and anything else that seemed unusual. This written account can serve as vital evidence if you decide to pursue legal action.

Cooperate with Law Enforcement

When the police arrive, provide them with a detailed account of what happened and your suspicions about the driver’s impairment. Be honest and concise, and let the officers conduct their investigation. They may administer a breathalyzer or other sobriety tests on the truck driver to determine their level of impairment.

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

Truck accidents involving impaired drivers can be legally complex and challenging to navigate. It’s crucial to contact a personal injury attorney experienced in truck accident cases as soon as possible. An attorney can help protect your rights, gather additional evidence, and guide you through the legal process. They can also communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

Follow Up on the Police Report

Request a copy of the police report once it’s available. This report will contain valuable information about the accident, including the officer’s observations and any sobriety test results. Your attorney can use this report to build a stronger case and pursue legal action against the impaired driver and potentially their employer.

Know Your Legal Options

If the truck driver was under the influence, they might face criminal charges, which can impact your civil case. Your attorney can explain the different legal options available, including filing a personal injury lawsuit against the driver, the trucking company or other liable parties. They can also advise you on potential compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages.

Monitor Your Recovery

Keep detailed records of your medical treatments, expenses and progress throughout your recovery. These records will be essential for your attorney to accurately calculate the compensation you deserve. Attend all follow-up appointments and adhere to your doctor’s recommendations to ensure a smooth recovery process.

Prepare for Potential Litigation

While many truck accident cases are settled out of court, some may go to trial. Your attorney will prepare you for this possibility by gathering all necessary evidence, including medical records, witness testimonies and expert opinions. They will also develop a strong legal strategy to present your case effectively in court.

Connect with a Skilled Atlanta Truck Crash Lawyer at ATL Elite Today

If you or someone you know has been injured in a truck accident due to a driver who was under the influence, you will likely benefit from having a dedicated and experienced truck crash injury attorney by your side.

At ATL Elite, we’re committed to helping people injured in truck crashes connect with attorneys who have handled many serious injury and truck crash cases. Fill out the form on our website today to learn more.