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Motor vehicle accidents can occur for a variety of reasons ranging from a driver simply not paying attention to the roadway to a driver being intoxicated while operating the motor vehicle. Ft. Myers personal injury lawyer Randall Spivey has seen through the many clients that he's represented the horrible effects that a drunk driving accident can have on both the victims and their loved ones. It is important to note, however, that accident victims who have sustained injuries at the hands of a drunk driver are not alone--there is help available to them under Florida law.

Undoubtedly, superstar Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson will be counting on such laws to work in bringing about justice for his mother and cousin who were recently involved in a motor vehicle accident involving a drunk driver. Both of them were hit head-on by an alleged drunk driver in Clermont, Florida. According to reports, the police had actually stopped the vehicle that was said to have been driven by the impaired driver, but that driver fled the stop, ran through two red lights and hit the vehicle driven by Johnson's mother. The police filed a DUI warrant on the driver, as well as other charges, with the state attorney's office.

What Should You Do if You've Been Hit By a Drunk Driver?

Your Ft. Myers personal injury lawyer will tell you that there are a number of steps that you should take while at the scene if you've been hit by a drunk or impaired driver. First, it is important to note that just like in the case involving The Rock's mother and cousin, it is not uncommon for drunk or impaired drivers to flee the scene after they have been involved in an accident. Still, it is crucial that the individual be identified. 

It is also common for a drunk driver, in an effort to avoid being arrested, to change seats in the car prior to law enforcement's arrival. That said, if at all possible, make sure that you take a picture of the individual who is behind the wheel, as well as the tag of the vehicle. Such evidence can prove to be invaluable in the long run. Additionally, photos should be taken of the entire scene, to include the damage done to any and all vehicles and/or property.

Once the police arrive at the scene, be sure to cooperate with them as fully as possible. Report any comments you may have overheard the driver make, particularly if they concern what or where he or she had been drinking prior to the accident. After speaking with law enforcement, you should ensure that you are thoroughly checked by a physician (or if you have sustained serious injuries, seek medical attention even before doing all of the above-mentioned tasks).

Lastly, it is strongly advised that accident victims do not speak with the drunk driver or his or her insurance provider. If the insurance company attempts to reach out to you, politely decline to speak with them and contact your lawyer right away.

If you or someone you love has been hit by a drunk driver, contact a Ft. Myers personal injury lawyer at the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. as soon as possible to discuss the particulars of your case.