DUI & Dangerous Driving Incident
I want to start by expressing my sincere apologies to everyone on the road. I made a poor decision, and I realize the impact of my actions. I’m young and still learning, and this has been a significant life lesson for me. Thank you for your understanding.
I’m currently in Alberta, Canada, and I recently had an accident while speeding after having consumed five beers following a hockey game. I’ve already submitted an insurance claim, but I haven’t yet spoken to an adjuster. I’ve also hired a lawyer, but I haven’t received any guidance on how to move forward with my claim.
What should I do next? Should I wait for guidance or proactively provide the insurance company with the information I have? Should I hold off until any potential charges are resolved? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
It’s great that you’re taking responsibility for your actions and seeking guidance on how to proceed. Here are some steps you may want to consider:
Communicate with Your Lawyer: Since you’ve hired a lawyer, it’s important to communicate closely with them. They can provide specific guidance on your situation and inform you about any legal implications of your DUI and how it affects your insurance claim.
Gather Documentation: Collect any documents related to the incident, including the police report, any citations or charges, and details of the accident. This information will be helpful for both your lawyer and your insurance company.
Talk to Your Insurance Company: Don’t hesitate to communicate with your insurance company. Since you’ve already submitted a claim, it’s best to keep them updated with any new information, especially if there are charges or significant developments. Just be mindful of what you say, as anything you disclose could potentially impact your claim.
Understand Your Insurance Policy: Review your insurance policy to understand how a DUI might affect your coverage. Many policies have specific clauses regarding driving under the influence, and it’s important to know what your responsibilities are.
Be Honest and Compliant: Be upfront with your insurance about the circumstances, but also take your lawyer’s advice on what specifics to share. Insurance adjusters will appreciate your honesty, but it’s crucial to follow legal guidance to avoid any complications.
Wait for Updates: If your lawyer advised you to wait for further developments, such as charges being dropped or resolved, it might be wise to follow that advice. However, always keep communication open with both your lawyer and your insurance company.
Learn from the Experience: Use this opportunity to reflect and learn from your mistakes, as you mentioned. There are resources available for responsible alcohol consumption and safe driving practices.
Remember, navigating these situations can be complex, so stay proactive and keep informed. Good luck, and take care!