Super Bowl Weekend Crashes
Super Bowl Weekend Crashes: What to Do If You’re Hit by a Drunk Driver
Super Bowl weekend is one of the most anticipated events of the year—friends, food, parties, and celebrations everywhere. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most dangerous weekends on the road. With alcohol flowing freely and more drivers taking chances, drunk driving crashes spike dramatically during Super Bowl festivities.
If you or a loved one is hit by a drunk driver, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Between injuries, vehicle damage, insurance calls, and emotional stress, it’s hard to know what to do next. Taking the right steps early can protect your health—and your legal rights.
Why Super Bowl Weekend Is So Dangerous on Ohio Roads
Law enforcement agencies consistently report an increase in DUI arrests and alcohol-related crashes during Super Bowl weekend. Many people underestimate how impaired they are or assume short drives are “safe enough.” The reality is that even one impaired driver can change lives forever in a matter of seconds.
Victims of drunk driving crashes often suffer serious injuries, including:
- Head and brain injuries
- Neck, back, and spinal trauma
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Emotional trauma and PTSD
What to Do Immediately After a Drunk Driving Crash
If you are hit by a suspected drunk driver, your safety comes first.
1. Call 911 immediately.
Request medical assistance and police. A police report is critical in drunk driving cases and helps document fault.
2. Seek medical care—even if you feel “okay.”
Adrenaline can mask pain. Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms until hours or days later.
3. Do not confront the other driver.
If the driver is impaired, confrontation can be dangerous. Let law enforcement handle it.
4. Gather evidence if you are able.
Photos of vehicle damage, the scene, and visible injuries can be valuable. Get contact information from witnesses if possible.
5. Avoid giving statements to insurance companies right away.
Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly. You are not required to give a recorded statement without legal guidance.
Understanding Your Rights After a Drunk Driving Accident
In Ohio, drunk drivers are almost always considered negligent, meaning they can be held responsible for the harm they cause. As a victim, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
In some cases, punitive damages may also apply, as drunk driving is considered reckless behavior.
Why These Cases Are Different From “Typical” Car Accidents
Drunk driving cases often involve more than just insurance claims. There may be criminal charges, license suspensions, or additional investigations happening at the same time. While a criminal case punishes the driver, it does not automatically compensate you for your injuries. That’s where a personal injury claim comes in.
Insurance companies may still try to minimize payouts—even when the other driver was intoxicated. Having experienced legal representation helps ensure your claim is taken seriously.
Don’t Carry the Burden Alone
Being injured by a drunk driver is not just a physical event—it’s an emotional one. You didn’t choose this, and you shouldn’t be left paying the price for someone else’s reckless decision.
At Zaber Law, we help injury victims understand their rights, deal with insurance companies, and pursue full and fair compensation—so they can focus on healing, not fighting paperwork.
If you or someone you love is injured in a drunk driving crash this Super Bowl weekend, don’t wait. Evidence fades, memories blur, and deadlines matter.
