Driving while intoxicated is a serious offense in Texas – and for good reason. In 2015, 1,446 people in Texas lost their lives in accidents that involved a driver with a blood-alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher, according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
These statistics fail to convey the hardships that family members face after such a tragedy. Victims who are lucky enough to survive often face permanent physical and cognitive disabilities, which affect their relationships, careers and quality of life.
If you sustained injuries in a drunk-driving crash, then you may be entitled to compensation. Although no amount of money can undo these hardships, a successful claim may help you pay for medical bills, lost income and other damages.
An Austin accident attorney from the Robson Law Firm can evaluate your wreck to determine if you have grounds for a claim. We have recovered more than $26 million for our clients.
Call 512-345-8200 to schedule a free initial consultation. You can also visit www.USAttorneys.com to learn more about drunk-driving accident lawsuits in Texas.
What will happen to the at-fault driver?
Unless it was a hit-and-run accident, the police should arrest the at-fault driver at the scene. If someone died, then he or she will face vehicular manslaughter charges, which is a felony crime. If you or another person sustained injuries, then the at-fault driver will face vehicular assault charges.
Although the driver will face criminal proceedings, you will have to initiate a civil claim separately. Even if the driver is found not-guilty in criminal court, he or she may still have to pay damages if the civil claim is successful.
What injuries are common in DWI accidents?
Nearly half of all crash-related injuries involve alcohol. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, three people die on the highway every two hours in alcohol-related accidents. These staggering figures highlight the extent of the problem.
Here are a few common injuries in DWI accidents:
• Back and neck injuries;
• Concussion;
• Lacerations;
• Amputations;
• Paralysis;
• Whiplash;
• Spinal cord injuries;
• Dental trauma and tooth loss;
• And brain injuries.
Several factors can influence the severity of injuries. Examples include speed, car models and makes, the number of vehicles involved, and seatbelt use.
What can victims do?
Drunk driving constitutes negligence, and if you sustained injuries in a crash with a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Although it seems easy to prove negligence after such an accident, making a successful claim is a legally complex process.
Your top priority after a collision is to seek medical attention. Then, contact an accident lawyer as soon as possible.
If the incident happened in Texas, call the Robson Law Firm. An Austin injury attorney can evaluate your crash and explain your legal options.
We have been representing the injured for more than 20 years, and we will give your case the individual attention that it deserves. Call 512-345-8200 to schedule a free initial consultation.