In Texas, the acronyms DUI (driving under the influence) and DWI (driving while intoxicated) refer to an individual operating a vehicle in public while under the influence of a mind-altering substance. Statistically, about 14% of Texans admit to driving under the influence of alcohol, oblivious of the fatal car accident injuries and damages they might inflict on others.
If you have experienced any injuries after a drunk driver caused an accident in Texas, Thompson Law’s drunk driving accident lawyers are here to help. We’re a family-run law firm that works to get you fairly compensated after being hit by a driver charged with DUI or DWI.
As per the Texas penal code 49.04, an intoxicated driver operates a vessel, motor vehicle, or even water skis in a public place while:
An officer can prove intoxication through the performance of field sobriety tests, the outcome from a Breathalyzer, and results from a drug recognition expert. Thompson Law’s injury lawyers are experienced and knowledgeable in the area of DUI auto accidents. Thompson Law’s drunk driving accident lawyers can help ensure you get fair value for your claim and aggressively fight for you and your case.
As per the Texas penal code 106.041, persons under the age of 21 years who operate a vehicle in public places under any alcohol influence are DUI. Besides, there is a zero-tolerance policy in Texas towards drugs and alcohol in underage persons. For instance, if a person is 18 and sips alcohol before driving, an officer can charge them with DUI.
When a DUI or DWI accident occurs, a criminal investigation is launched into the incident. If the negligent party has prior DUI or DWI convictions or serious injury is caused, they might be charged with a felony.
First, the accident and intoxication are carefully documented by law enforcement to build a case. But obtaining financial compensation for your injuries and losses is a separate matter. DUI and DWI differ from most standard auto accidents because they potentially involve gross negligence and criminal behavior. But remember, a not-guilty verdict doesn’t necessarily mean you aren’t eligible for compensation.
Typical auto accident damages include losses and harms like injury, pain and suffering, lost income, and medical bills. But in a DWI or DUI case, you might have a right to punitive damages as well.
In Texas, “gross negligence” is described as “willful, extremely reckless behavior.” If the other party is found to have committed gross negligence, you may be able to seek punitive damages—or damages intended to punish the negligent party. Determining whether you qualify for this type of compensation can be tricky. Still, an expert drunk driving accident lawyer can help you navigate these waters.
An auto accident caused by a DUI or DWI can result in vehicular property damage, lost wages, and considerable pain and suffering. What’s more, drunk driving accidents can be very complex, making the aftermath just as grueling as the accident itself.
A qualified attorney can handle your case with a trained eye and years of expertise. A drunk driving lawyer will help you:
Contact us today and speak to our bilingual team about the types of damages and losses caused by a drunk driver. Our case evaluations with our drunk driving accident lawyers are absolutely free and confidential.
After a car accident involving a negligent drunk driver, you need an experienced drunk driving accident lawyer from Thompson Law by your side. No matter how complicated the case may turn out, we will work to get you fair compensation.
Call Thompson Law to speak to our bilingual legal team today, or contact us online! Tell us what happened to you and let us do the fighting for your settlement. The consultation is free and there is never a fee unless we win.
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Thompson Law receives an attorney fee and you pay no legal fees as our client unless we pay you. Thompson Law has 350 years of combined experience in legal representation and has won over $1.8 billion dollars in cash settlements for our clients. We master the art of managing client cases with empathy, compassion, respect and, of course, prodigious skill. Contact us today for a free, risk-free consultation to discuss your accident and your options.
State law limits the time you have to file a claim after an auto accident. If you have been injured in an accident, call now to get the help you need.