Getting injured in a car accident is traumatic, but when a drunk driver causes the crash, the situation becomes even more overwhelming. Beyond the pain and shock, you have to deal with police investigations, insurance companies lowballing your offers, and serious health concerns.
What you do immediately following your accident can make a huge difference in your healing and ability to recover compensation.
1. Get proper medical care
It goes without saying that after an injury you should seek medical care, but how and when you see a doctor matters. If you have not been seen by a professional, get checked out right away. Treating your own injuries or having a nurse friend bandage you up at home won’t help you establish the medical paper trail you’ll need to recover compensation.
Even though you can recover compensation for pain and suffering in addition to medical bills, your compensation will be initially based on medical bills. If you don’t have any medical records, it will be impossible to prove your injuries were caused by the crash. There’s also a chance that the validity of your claim will be challenged.
2. Document the accident scene
Hopefully, you took photos of the accident scene. The first chance you get, take even more detailed photos of your injuries and car. Get close-ups of the damage and some distance shots to show perspective. The photos you took at the scene will be valuable, but sometimes additional photos will have better lighting and can fill in the gaps where smaller details matter.
3. Contact an attorney
Drunk driving cases often involve criminal and civil processes. Having an attorney ensures your rights are protected no matter what. For instance, in some states, an experienced personal injury lawyer can determine if any bars, restaurants, or other third parties share responsibility under “dram shop” laws.
An insurance adjuster will pressure you into settling fast, but they won’t offer what your case is worth. An attorney will know how to maximize your compensation to ensure you get paid for current and future medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering if applicable. A lawyer will be your biggest advocate.
4. Avoid posting to social media
Social media posts are exactly what insurance companies use to devalue and dismiss claims. Don’t just avoid posting about your accident. Don’t post anything online, including comments or seemingly innocent photos. Even a simple check-in that contradicts your story can be used to dismiss your claim.
5. Take care of your mental health
The trauma of being injured by a drunk driver can create emotional scars and cause anxiety, PTSD, or even depression. It’s normal to feel fear or anger after an accident, but don’t hold onto it. Get support from a therapist trained in trauma recovery to help manage your emotions.
Meditation and journaling are excellent ways to reduce stress and recover emotional resilience. Protecting your mental health is important for reclaiming your peace of mind.
6. Lean on your support system
Recovery will be harder alone. Don’t be afraid to lean on people you trust for support. Family and friends can help you with grocery shopping, cooking, transportation to appointments, and just listening when you need an ear.
A lot of accident victims find it helpful to connect with others who survived drunk driving accidents for encouragement. However, if you can’t find a local group or don’t feel comfortable talking in groups, a therapist can help.
7. Prioritize nutrition and sleep
Two of the most important factors in your recovery will be nutrition and sleep. Both play a direct role in how fast your body will repair itself. Start by eating anti-inflammatory foods. Fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grains will help reduce swelling and support tissue repair.
Drinking water is equally important and supports every part of the healing process. You’ll also want to increase your protein intake to support muscle repair, whether you choose to eat meat, beans, or dairy.
Quality sleep is one of the most underrated parts of the healing process. Rest allows your body to repair damaged tissue, regulate hormones, and restore energy. During deep sleep cycles, your body goes into repair mode, and that’s what you need to recover. Lack of sleep will only keep cortisol levels high and worsen anxiety and depression.
You’re not powerless
After being injured by a drunk driver, it’s critical to protect your legal rights and support your body’s need to heal. By guarding your mental health, fueling your recovery with good nutrition, and taking advice from a lawyer, you can protect your future and your peace of mind.
