Unfortunately, many drivers continue to operate their vehicles while under the influence of alcohol. Statistics gathered from 2015 found that an estimated 1.1 million drivers were arrested annually for driving under the influence of either alcohol or narcotics. It’s important to note that situations involving a drunk driver differ from other types of automobile crashes. Considering that, here are four important steps to follow after you’ve been hit by a drunk driver.

1. Call the Police Right Away
   
   It’s hard to tell what will happen immediately after being involved in a collision with someone engaging in drunk driving. Alcohol can make people feel a wide variety of emotions. Throwing in a shocking event like a car crash can make someone already impaired act even more recklessly. Therefore, it’s best to protect yourself and the other driver by contacting the police as soon as you’re able to do so. In turn, having police arrive on the scene of your accidents helps to ensure it’s documented that the other driver is under the influence of alcohol.
2. Gather as Much Information from Other Driver
   
   This step can be tricky in certain situations. For instance, it’s going to be difficult to gather information from someone who is extremely drunk. Therefore, you might not be able to have a clear conversation with a drunk driver. That being said, you’ll want to ensure that you obtain the other driver’s plate number. If possible, another passenger traveling with the other party might be able to provide you with the information you’re needing.
3. Speak with Witnesses
   
   As any personal injury attorney will tell you, it’s important to have witnesses. Depending on where and when your crash took place, many witnesses could have seen you get struck by the person who was drunk driving. With that in mind, you’ll want to ensure that you’re able to collect information from any witnesses at the scene of your accident. Personal injury law firms also utilize these statements to help clients who have been hit by those engaging in drunk driving.
4. Hire a Lawyer
   
   Drunk driving accidents are often costly events in more ways than one. Statistics gathered from 2015 found that 32,166 fatal motor vehicle accidents occurred annually. In certain cases, these accidents involve those who were struck by drunk drivers. If you want your best chance at receiving the compensation you deserve, consider contacting a car accident attorney.

In closing, there are several important steps to take after being hit by a drunk driver. One study found that over 50% of all road traffic deaths took place among those between the ages of 15 to 44. Unfortunately, one of the most common causes of fatal car crashes is drunk driving. If you or someone you know has recently been involved in a drunk driving accident, contact a lawyer right away.