What if I Was Injured by a Drunk Driver in NJ?

Following a car accident in New Jersey, you may exit your vehicle to exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved. During this exchange, you might observe indicators such as slurred speech, glazed eyes, or difficulty staying focused. These could suggest the driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you suspect the at-fault party is impaired, please continue reading to learn the steps you need to take to protect your rights and how a determined Morris County Drunk Driver Accident Attorney can help you fight for the justice you deserve.

How Do Drugs and Alcohol Impair One’s Ability to Safely Operate a Motor Vehicle?

Driving while under the influence (DUI) is prohibited in New Jersey and carries severe penalties. This is because operating a motor vehicle necessitates a range of cognitive and physical skills that can be significantly impaired by drugs and alcohol. These substances can negatively impact an individual’s abilities in several ways, including:

• Compromised judgment and decision-making
• Diminished reaction times
• Reduced coordination and motor dexterity
• Altered visual acuity and perception
• Drowsiness and fatigue

As you can see, getting behind the wheel while intoxicated is incredibly dangerous as it jeopardizes your safety, as well as other road users. If you plan on driving after consuming substances, you must plan alternative transportation options to prevent devastating accidents.

What Should I Do if I’ve Been Struck by a Drunk Driver in New Jersey?

Upon the arrival of a law enforcement officer at the accident scene, it’s advisable to promptly articulate any concerns regarding the other driver’s potential intoxication. Subsequently, the officer may administer a breathalyzer test to determine the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level.

It’s pertinent to note that the legal BAC threshold for a DUI is 0.08%. However, one should not be deterred if the other driver’s BAC level falls below this threshold. A motorist can still face a DUI if the officer determines the amount of alcohol in their system has rendered them incapable of safely operating a motor vehicle. It’s advisable to obtain a copy of the police report, as it will provide pertinent details that can help you establish gross negligence.

Furthermore, additional corroborating evidence of their impaired and reckless driving, which directly precipitated the collision, subsequent injuries, and damages, may be available. This may encompass dash cam footage, traffic cameras, or surveillance footage depicting their erratic driving immediately preceding the collision. Alternatively, eyewitness testimonies, admission of fault, among other forms of evidence may be presented to support your claim.

If you have been struck by a drunk driver in New Jersey, it’s in your best interest to contact an experienced attorney at Lutz Injury Law, who can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can fight for you during these difficult times.