Picking up the car keys after having an alcoholic beverage or two can change so many lives, and in only a matter of minutes. If you've been the victim of a drunk driving accident, there are a few things you should know and do to ensure you're able to file a successful claim. We'll help you sort through the basics.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 400,000 people each year are injured in crashes involving a driver who was distracted in some way. And, those numbers appear to be on the rise in North Carolina, hitting nearly 30,000 accidents last year alone.

According to the CDC, every year 3 million people across the United States are injured in a car accident. And, those accidents aren’t just scary—they’re costly, too. Last year, medical care costs and productivity losses tied to injuries and fatalities from car accidents was more than $75 billion.

The may feel like the worst has happened: You’ve experienced an injury due to an accident. Maybe it was a car or motorcycle incident; a workplace mishap; or, a slip and fall. Regardless of the circumstances, you’re now faced with some difficult decisions—on top of needing to manage unexpected injuries and recovery. 

If you’ve been a victim in an accident and have experienced an injury impacting your ability to work, being able to regain any lost wages can be what makes or breaks your financial future. In addition to staying on top of bills and day-to-day expenses, chances are you’ll also need to balance hospital and/or medical bills. 

There’s nothing quite like riding the open road on a motorcycle: The freedom and excitement can be unmatched. But with the openness that motorcycle riders so enjoy, come additional risks.