What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident in Ohio

Hurt by a Drunk Driver? Know Your Rights and Legal Options

Drunk driving accidents can change lives in a matter of seconds. One moment you’re safely driving home, and the next, a reckless decision by another driver puts your health, your finances, and your future at risk. At Buckeye Law Group, we help victims of drunk driving crashes throughout Ohio seek justice and recover full compensation. Below, we answer the most common questions about what to do after such a devastating event.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Drunk Driving Accident?

Your actions after the crash are critical, both for your health and for protecting your legal claim.

Here’s what you should do:

• Call 911 right away. Report the accident and request emergency services.
• Tell officers you suspect the driver is impaired. This allows police to conduct a sobriety test or chemical test at the scene.
• Document the scene. If you’re able, take photos of:
  • Vehicle positions and damage
  • Road conditions and debris
  • The other driver’s behavior (slurred speech, stumbling, etc.)
  • Any alcohol bottles or drug paraphernalia visible in their vehicle
• Get contact info from witnesses. Their statements may confirm the driver’s intoxication.
• Seek medical attention. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away.

Is the Drunk Driver Automatically Liable for the Accident?

Not exactly—but they are strongly presumed to be at fault.

How Liability Works in Ohio:

• A criminal conviction for OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) strengthens your injury claim but does not guarantee full civil compensation.
• Your attorney must still show:
  • The driver owed you a duty of care (all drivers do)
  • They breached that duty by driving drunk
  • That breach caused your injuries and damages

What Damages Can I Recover After a Drunk Driving Crash?

Depending on the severity of the crash, you may be eligible for:

• Medical expenses: ER visits, surgeries, rehab, ongoing care
• Lost income: Wages lost during recovery and future loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering: Emotional trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and diminished quality of life
• Property damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle
• Punitive damages: In some cases, especially when the driver’s BAC is very high or they’re a repeat offender

How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help Me After a Drunk Driving Accident?

At Buckeye Law Group, we manage the legal process while you focus on healing.

We will:

• Investigate the crash thoroughly and collect police and toxicology reports
• Secure surveillance footage or dash cam evidence, if available
• Interview witnesses and work with accident reconstructionists
• Negotiate with the drunk driver’s insurance company
• File a lawsuit and go to trial if necessary

Why Contact Buckeye Law Group Immediately?

The sooner you call, the stronger your case. Ohio has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, but evidence fades quickly.

📞 Get the justice you deserve. Schedule a free consultation today at Buckeye Law Group.