Few things are as irresponsible as getting behind the wheel of a car after drinking. Unfortunately, drunk driving occurs on a regular basis in Austin and throughout the United States.
While many attorneys make their living by representing reckless drivers in criminal court, our law firm believes that the victims of a crime that ruins the lives of so many Texans should be protected in civil court.
We understand how to establish liability in these cases and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf regardless of whether the at-fault driver is charged with DWI.
If you have been the victim of a drunk driver, contact an Austin drunk driving accident lawyer at DJC Law to find out how we can help you today.
What To Do After A Drunk Driving Accident
Being in a drunk driving accident can be jarring and overwhelming. Before the drunk driving accident lawyer support, you need to take these actions that can help you get back on your feet:
- Seek Medical Help: Even if you don’t see any visible injuries, the top priority should be to visit your healthcare provider. You might be worried about the cost, but still getting medicare care is non-negotiable. If you are too severely injured, do not try to move. Let people around you call an ambulance to help you.
- Call The Police: Make sure you contact the authorities and report the accident. If the accident involves injuries, never leave the scene until the police arrive.
- Take Pictures Of The Accident Scene: Remember to document the aftermath of the accident. Even if you don’t have a phone with you, get one from someone. Also, preserve your clothes and footwear. Also, take pictures of yourself as well.
Contact Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer: Accidents involve property damage and bodily harm. A Drunk Driving Accident lawyer can hold the liable party accountable and pursue compensation for your loss.
High-Quality Service from Our Local Drunk Driving Collision Lawyers
Most auto accident cases are the result of negligence. Drunk driving, however, is a reckless behavior that creates a greater risk of serious injuries such as head trauma, spinal injury, paralysis, or even wrongful death.
When bringing suit against a drunk driver, it is often necessary to request punitive damages (which are meant to punish the other side) as well as a request for compensatory damages (which are meant to compensate for the harm done to the victim).
Hiring the right attorney can make the difference in the extent to which the plaintiff recovers damages in an Austin drunk driving claim. Our lawyers can help obtain records such as breathalyzer results and blood tests to show that the at-fault driver was impaired. We will also closely monitor any criminal proceedings so that liability can be quickly established.
We understand that the victim of drunk driving has been wronged. We’ll focus on the legal aspect so that the victim can focus on the important business of getting life back on track. Our legal team is ready to assist you.
Signs a Defendant Was Intoxicated
The state defines legal intoxication per se while driving as a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or higher. This level establishes, by law, that the driver was intoxicated. However, a lesser percentage can still be considered intoxication, when other signs are present.
Signals that a driver is impaired include:
- Slurred speech
- Red and glassy eyes
- Strong odor of alcohol on breath or in vehicle
- Open containers of alcohol
- Unsafe driving practices, speeding, inability to maintain lane
- Admissions to drinking or using drugs
Intoxication can occur as the result of alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription drugs, or even over-the-counter medications. Any intoxication that led to unsafe driving and that ultimately caused the accident could be the proof needed to file an effective claim.
What Are Your Rights After A Drunk Driving Accident
With a drunk driver accident lawyer, you also need to know your rights after a drunk driving accident.
Apart from the physical injuries and emotional distress, you may be facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. It becomes critical to understand your rights and the legal options that are available to you.
As per Texas law, drunk driving accident victims can pursue compensation from the responsible party. This compensation can cover a range of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: This includes past and future medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and any necessary ongoing care.
- Lost Wages: You can recover lost income from time missed at work due to your injuries, as well as compensation for any diminished earning capacity.
- Property Damage: The cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any other damaged property is recoverable.
- Pain and Suffering: You are entitled to compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the accident.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, such as drunk driving, you may also be awarded punitive damages. These damages are intended to punish the drunk driver for their reckless behavior and deter others from doing the same.
Why You Need an Austin Drunk Driving Accident Attorney
A diligent lawyer in Austin could implement evidence to demonstrate that a defendant definitely caused an accident by driving drunk Being hit by a drunk driver is more than an accident; it's a reckless disregard for human life. The emotional and physical trauma you endure can feel insurmountable, and the path to recovery may seem uncertain.
But you don't have to walk this path alone. We understand the profound impact that a drunk driving accident can have, and our team of skilled Austin drunk driving accident lawyers is here to fight for you.
While you can attempt to navigate the legal system on your own, hiring an Austin drunk driving accident attorney is strongly recommended, especially in cases involving serious injuries or complex legal issues. Here's why:
- Get Expert Legal Guidance
Our attorney specializing in drunk driving accidents understands the nuances of Texas law and can provide you with expert legal guidance to help you in your specific situation. They can advise you on your rights, explain the legal process, and help you make informed decisions.
- For Investigating the Accident
Our skilled drunk driver accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident to gather evidence and build a strong case on your behalf. This may involve reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, consulting with accident reconstruction experts, and obtaining video footage.
- To Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. Our Texas drunk driving accident lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance companies on your behalf, protecting your interests and negotiating for a fair settlement.
- To File a Lawsuit
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your attorney can file a lawsuit and represent you in court. They will prepare the case for trial, present evidence, and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.
- To Maximize Compensation
Our experienced drunk driving accident attorney will work to maximize your compensation for all of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.
- For Punitive Damages in Drunk Driving Cases
In Texas, you may be entitled to punitive damages in a drunk driving accident case. Punitive damages are intended to punish the drunk driver for their reckless behavior and deter others from driving under the influence.
For punitive damages, you need to prove that the drunk driver acted with gross negligence. Our seasoned drunk driver accident lawyer understands how to present the evidence necessary to pursue these damages.
- To Hold the Drunk Driver Accountable
By pursuing a legal claim against the drunk driver, you are not only seeking compensation for your injuries but also holding them accountable for their actions. You will be upholding justice and helping prevent future drunk driving incidents.
- To Navigate Through Criminal and Civil Cases
Drunk driving accidents often involve both criminal and civil cases, where the criminal case focuses on punishing the drunk driver and the civil case is aimed at compensating the victim for their damages.
With extensive experience in litigating these complex cases and millions of dollars recovered for our clients, we're committed to maximizing your chances of recovering compensation in a civil claim.
Our attorney can help you understand the relationship between these two cases and navigate both processes effectively.
Let us help you reclaim not just the financial losses but also the peace of mind and the dignity you deserve. Reach out today, and let's start the journey toward justice together.