Drunk driving accidents are more than just statistics—they’re life-altering events that leave victims with physical pain, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty. In Connecticut, driving under the influence remains a leading cause of serious and fatal car accidents. If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, knowing what to do in the aftermath can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and securing compensation.
This step-by-step guide outlines the actions you should take following a car accident caused by a drunk driver in Connecticut, including how to pursue a personal injury claim and when to contact a car accident attorney.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Call 911
Immediately after the accident, move to a safe location if possible and call 911. When reporting the crash, clearly inform the dispatcher if you suspect the other driver is intoxicated. First responders will assess injuries and, importantly, law enforcement can begin gathering evidence of drunk driving—such as administering field sobriety tests or breathalyzers.
Police documentation will be a key piece of evidence in any car accident lawsuit. A formal report can help establish liability and support your injury claim.
Step 2: Get Medical Attention for Any Car Accident Injury
Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical evaluation right away. Adrenaline can mask symptoms of a serious injury, and delaying treatment may not only worsen your condition but also weaken your legal claim.
Medical records will document the extent and cause of your injuries, which is vital when pursuing compensation. Be sure to follow through with all recommended treatments and attend follow-up appointments. This helps create a strong record of how the accident impacted your health.
Step 3: Document the Scene and Gather Information
If you are physically able, collect information at the accident scene before leaving:
- Take photographs of vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signs.
- Get contact and insurance details from the other driver.
- Collect names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Make note of the other driver’s behavior—slurred speech, smell of alcohol, or erratic movements can support a claim of intoxication.
Do not confront the suspected drunk driver. Let law enforcement handle the situation to avoid escalation or further injury.
Step 4: Request a Copy of the Police Report
Once the police report is available, request a copy for your records. In Connecticut, police reports for motor vehicle accidents are typically available through the local police department or the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection.
The report may include important details such as citations issued for DUI, witness statements, and officer observations. This can be key evidence in a car accident lawsuit, especially if the drunk driver faces criminal charges.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company—but Be Cautious
You are required to notify your own insurance company after a car accident, even if the other driver was at fault. Be honest and stick to the facts. Do not speculate or admit fault, and avoid giving a recorded statement without legal guidance.
If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, do not agree to a settlement or make any statements. Their goal is to limit their financial liability—not to protect your best interests.
Step 6: Understand Your Legal Rights as an Injury Victim in Connecticut
Connecticut follows a modified comparative negligence rule. That means you can still recover damages as long as you are not found to be more than 50% at fault for the accident. If the drunk driver is clearly liable, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Future medical care or rehabilitation
In cases involving drunk driving, you may also be eligible for punitive damages—additional compensation intended to punish reckless behavior. However, these are awarded in rare cases and must be proven through a civil lawsuit.
Step 7: Consider Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit
If your injuries are serious or the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, filing a car accident lawsuit may be the next step. A civil claim can help you recover the full value of your damages. In Connecticut, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long can forfeit your right to sue.
A lawsuit against a drunk driver may proceed separately from any criminal charges they face. Even if they are not convicted in criminal court, you can still pursue compensation in civil court based on a lower burden of proof.
Step 8: Hire an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer in Connecticut
You don’t have to navigate this process alone. A skilled car accident attorney can help you:
- Investigate the crash and gather evidence of drunk driving
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Calculate the full scope of your damages
- Represent you in court, if necessary
Choosing the right car accident lawyer is essential—especially in drunk driving cases, where aggressive legal action may be needed to hold the responsible party accountable. Look for an attorney who has experience with Connecticut personal injury laws and a track record of success in car accident claims.
Step 9: Explore Additional Legal Options
In some cases, other parties may share liability. For example, Connecticut law allows victims to pursue claims under the Dram Shop Act if a bar or restaurant knowingly served alcohol to someone who was visibly intoxicated or underage, and that person later caused a car accident.
A knowledgeable attorney can help identify all potential sources of compensation, including underinsured motorist coverage, employer liability (if the driver was on the job), or third-party negligence.
Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help
If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver in Connecticut, time is not on your side. Swift action can protect your health, preserve evidence, and improve your chances of securing full compensation. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we stand with injury victims—fighting for your rights, your recovery, and your peace of mind.
Our team is experienced in handling car accident lawsuits, including those involving drunk driving, and we understand the legal and emotional toll these incidents can take. Let us handle the legal side so you can focus on healing.
Contact us today for a free consultation. You don’t pay unless we win your case.