You’ve just gotten in a car accident. Glass is shattered, maybe the air bag is deflating, and you’ve maybe had a few beers to drink. Here’s what you should do if you’ve been in a DUI car accident.
DUI Car Accident
- Never leave the scene of the crime. Doing so can mean a felony hit and run charge.
- Identify if anyone is hurt and needs emergency medical assistance. If there is a medical emergency call for assistance and try to report as best you can the status of injuries.
- Call the police. Whether or not it is a state law, calling the police is a good idea.
- Avoid making oral or written statements to other people involved in the accident or to police officers. This includes “I’m sorry,” because that can be seen and used as an admission of guilt in a court of law. If a DUI is suspected, it’s best to speak to an attorney before making any statements regarding the accident or fault.
- There is no legal punishment for refusing to take field sobriety tests. But if you refuse a chemical or breath test you can be fined for noncompliance as well as be subjected to administrative and criminal penalties.
- Get contact information including names, addresses, and phone numbers of any witnesses.
- Take pictures of the vehicles involved, the accident scene, and any physical damage that has been done.
- Record the accident from your perspective. Note date, time. You might also want to mail a copy of the statement to yourself in order to retain a postmark that contains a date. Also, write “Confidential: Attorney-Client Privileged,” at the top. This should only be shown to an attorney (if you decide to work with one).
- If you have hit an unattended vehicle or damaged private property, try to determine who owns the vehicle or property.
Work with a DUI Attorney
If you have been accused of driving under the influence, the first call you should make is to a DUI defense lawyer who can advise you on the next steps that should be taken. The charge should not be taken lightly as it can result in hefty fines, jail time, and loss of your license.
