Losing a spouse is one of the most devastating experiences a person can go through. When that spouse is taken from you due to the negligence of another, it can be even more difficult to deal with. If your spouse was killed by a drunk driver, there are specific steps you should take to protect your interests and hold the responsible party accountable.
Consult with a wrongful death attorney
You may be feeling angry, confused, and helpless. However, it is important to remember that you are not alone. The first thing you should do is consult with a wrongful death lawyer. They can help you understand your legal rights and determine whether or not you have a viable case for damages. An experienced attorney will be able to provide advice on the best course of action, as well as represent your interests in any court proceedings. They will also help you to seek compensation for things like medical bills, loss of income due to the death of your spouse, and emotional distress.
Obtain a copy of the police report
If your spouse was killed by a drunk driver, you should obtain a copy of the police report as soon as possible. The report will contain essential information about the incident, including the name and contact information of the driver, the circumstances leading up to the crash, and any charges that have been filed. In addition, the report can be used to support a wrongful death claim. However, obtaining a copy of the police report can be challenging. The best way to get a copy is to contact the officer who responded to the scene of the accident and request a copy. Alternatively, you can file public records request with your local police department. Once you have obtained a copy of the report, it is important to keep it in a safe place, as it can be vital evidence in pursuing justice for your spouse.
Gather evidence
Of course, you will need to gather evidence that the other driver was intoxicated at the time of the accident. This can be difficult, as many drunk drivers try to flee the scene of the accident. However, there are a few ways to collect evidence. First, you should check for any surveillance footage that may have captured the accident. You should also speak to any witnesses who saw the accident and can attest to the other driver’s intoxication. Finally, you should request a copy of the police report, as this may contain information about the other driver’s blood alcohol level. By gathering this evidence, you can give yourself the best chance of success in a wrongful death claim.
Keep track of any medical bills or funeral expenses
It can be difficult to keep track of all the medical bills and funeral expenses after your spouse dies. Unfortunately, if your spouse died due to a drunk driver, you may be facing a lot of expenses. The best way to keep track of these expenses is to create a file for them. This file should include all bills, receipts, and documents related to the death. This will help you keep track of what you’ve paid and what is still owed. It will also help you when it comes time to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action. By keeping organized, you can make sure that you’re able to get the reimbursement or compensation you’re entitled to.
File a claim with the drunk driver’s insurance company
When you file a claim with the drunk driver’s insurance company, you may be eligible for compensation for your spouse’s death. There are a few things to keep in mind when you are filing a claim. First, you will need to prove that the other driver was at fault for the accident. You will need to gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records. Second, you will need to prove that your spouse died as a result of the accident. This may require an autopsy report or other medical documentation. Third, you will need to prove that you have incurred financial damages as a result of your spouse’s death. This may include funeral expenses, lost wages, and other costs. If you can prove all of these things, then you may be eligible for compensation from the drunk driver’s insurance company.
Final thoughts
If you have lost a spouse due to the negligence of a drunk driver, it is important that you take action in order to protect your interests and seek justice for your loved one. An experienced wrongful death attorney can help guide you through this process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve under the law.
