Hit by a Drunk Driver: Common Injuries and What Happens Next
Being hit by a drunk driver can be a sudden and overwhelming experience. After a crash caused by an impaired driver, victims often face pain, uncertainty, and many questions about what comes next. Because alcohol affects judgment, coordination, and reaction time, drunk driving crashes frequently involve high-impact collisions that increase the risk of serious injury.
This guide reviews common injuries caused by drunk driving accidents and outlines important considerations for individuals harmed by an impaired driver.
Common Injuries After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver
Crashes involving intoxicated drivers often cause more severe injuries than other motor vehicle accidents. Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and braking response, often leading to forceful collisions.
Types of Injuries Caused by Impaired Driving Crashes
People hit by drunk drivers may experience a wide range of injuries, including:
- Whiplash and neck injuries from sudden impact
- Back injuries, including muscle strains or disc injuries
- Broken bones, commonly affecting the arms, legs, ribs, or collarbone
- Shoulder and knee injuries caused by forceful twisting or direct trauma
- Internal injuries, which may not be immediately obvious
The severity of injuries often depends on speed, vehicle type, seatbelt use, and point of impact.
Delayed Symptoms After a Drunk Driving Accident
Not all injuries are obvious right away. Some people initially feel “okay,” only to develop symptoms of delayed pain. Minor injuries may occur when a drunk driver hits you, including:
- Neck or shoulder stiffness
- Lower back soreness
- Bruising or soft tissue injuries
- Reduced range of motion
Even injuries considered minor can interfere with daily activities and work if left unaddressed.
Impaired Driving Accident Statistics
Drunk driving remains a serious public safety issue. According to national traffic safety data, alcohol-impaired driving crashes continue to account for a significant percentage of injury-related motor vehicle accidents each year. These statistics show that drunk driver accidents often cause more severe injuries than other crashes.
What Happens After an Impaired Driving Crash?
Many people search for, “What happens if you get hit by a drunk driver?” The aftermath can involve several steps:
- Law enforcement typically investigates the crash and may conduct sobriety testing
- Seek a medical evaluation, even if your injuries seem mild
- Insurance claims may involve the at-fault driver’s policy
- Legal and medical documentation may become important later
Each situation is different, and outcomes depend on the details of the crash and injuries involved.
Important Considerations After a Drunk Driver Hits You
If a drunk driver hits you, take early steps to protect your health and document your injuries.
What you can do when hit by a drunk driver:
- Consider seeking medical attention as soon as possible
- Report the accident to law enforcement
- Document injuries, symptoms, and medical visits
- Avoid minimizing pain or symptoms
- Follow medical recommendations for evaluation and care
If you’re thinking, “I was hit by a drunk driver and don’t know what to do next,” starting with medical care is often the first priority.
If a Drunk Driver Hit You and You Don’t Have Insurance
Some people worry, “A drunk driver hit me and I have no insurance.” This situation can feel overwhelming, but options may still be available. Do not delay medical care because of insurance concerns. In no-fault insurance states, injury-related medical care may be covered through personal injury protection (PIP), regardless of who caused the accident. In many cases, other coverage options or resources may apply depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Compensation After a Drunk Driver Hits You
People often ask questions about compensation when hit by a drunk driver. Compensation discussions often relate to medical expenses, lost wages, and the impact injuries have on daily life. The availability and amount of compensation depend on many factors, including the severity of injuries and insurance coverage.
When to Seek Medical Care After an Accident
Whether injuries seem severe or mild, a medical evaluation can help identify issues that are not immediately visible. Don’t ignore symptoms like pain, stiffness, dizziness, or numbness, even if they develop later.
If you’re thinking, “I was hit by a drunk driver and I’m still in pain,” a board certified medical professional can assess your condition and explain appropriate next steps.
Moving Forward After the Accident
Recovering from a drunk driver accident can involve physical, emotional, and practical challenges. Understanding common injuries and knowing what steps to take may help you feel more prepared during an uncertain time.
If a drunk driver recently hit you, a medical evaluation can help document your injuries and address ongoing symptoms related to the accident.
Request an Appointment
PainandInjury.com connects patients across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut with a network of board-certified providers experienced in evaluating pain after an injury caused by a car accident. If you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms, a professional assessment can help you understand your options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drunk Driver Accidents
After being hit by a drunk driver, seek medical care as soon as possible, even if injuries seem minor. Report the crash to law enforcement and document any symptoms or pain that develop.
If you were hit by a drunk driver and do not have insurance, medical care should not be delayed. In no-fault insurance states, injury-related medical treatment may be available through personal injury protection (PIP), regardless of who caused the accident.
Medical treatment after a drunk driving accident may be covered through no-fault insurance, the at-fault driver’s insurance, or other available coverage. Coverage depends on state laws and insurance policies.