Drunk driving accidents pose significant challenges, more so when multiple parties can bear the blame. However, the fault in drunk driving accidents is usually straightforward. An intoxicated driver whose negligence results in a crash is directly responsible.
DUI motorists carry civil liability for causing injury, death, and property damage. Victims can secure monetary restitution for the economic and non-economic damages they suffer.
Our car accident lawyers in La Porte are prepared to go above and beyond to hold such parties accountable and help victims secure maximum compensation.
Fault in Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk drivers are not always at fault. As the plaintiff, you must demonstrate that the accident and resulting harm would not have occurred but for the driver’s negligence.
Proving this concept involves establishing that they owed you and other road users an expected legal duty of care. That they breached the duty by willfully operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Most importantly, you must prove causation. This links the driver’s behavior to the resulting accident. A typical example of causation is when a DUI motorist runs a red light or acts in road rage.
Therefore, you cannot hold another driver solely responsible for a DUI accident just because they were drunk. In some cases, especially in Texas, where Dram Shop laws apply, you may sue friends, bar owners, establishments, or restaurants for serving alcohol to already-intoxicated individuals who then cause harm to others.
Hiring a La Porte personal injury lawyer can help determine which parties to hold responsible.
For a free legal consultation with a drunk driving accident lawyer serving La Porte, call (832) 449-8230
4 Things You Should Do After a Drunk Driving Accident
Being involved in a DUI accident can be disorienting. Knowing what to do can keep you out of harm’s way and protect your rights. The following actions are vital for your safety and legal rights:
Stop & Call the Police
Stopping at an accident scene involving drunk driving is important for several reasons. First, anyone involved in a crash resulting in injury, property damage, or death must stop and stay at the scene, according to the Texas Transportation Code 550.
Fleeing the scene is a felony. Secondly, remaining at the scene and calling the local police department makes the crash a public record. The police will investigate the accident and pursue the offender to prevent further accidents.
Additionally, police findings in their official report are vital evidence that a drunk driving accident attorney can use to prove negligence and damages.
Assess your Injuries
Prioritizing your health and safety is paramount after a traffic accident. Assess yourself for injuries and report them to the EMTs at the scene.
Accept treatment, including first aid, and follow up with treatment where necessary or as advised. Please note that some injuries following a car accident are not always noticeable immediately. Adrenaline often masks serious injuries.
Therefore, pursue further medical assessment, particularly if you experience unusual signs or symptoms, including swelling, blurred vision, slurred speech, and pain. Medical reports are solid evidence for proving causation and damages in an injury case.
Document the Crash
Documenting the aftermath of a drunk driving accident is vital for several reasons. Stay at the scene and gather more information about the crash, if possible.
Collect as much evidence as possible by taking photos of the scene, statements from eyewitnesses, vehicle damage, skid marks, and your injuries. Remember to note the day, time, and exact location of the accident.
Write down everything you can remember about the drunk driver, especially if they fled the scene. This information is crucial for tracking them down and recovering appropriate compensation from insurance companies.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
Finally, you should consider hiring a La Port car accident lawyer. They have in-depth knowledge of drunk driving accidents and the relevant laws to explore for justice.
As expert negotiators, attorneys can handle insurance companies and negotiate a fair settlement. With their tools and resources, they will also investigate the accident by visiting the scene, gathering evidence, retaining expert witnesses, cross-examining eyewitnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage.
If push comes to shove and a settlement is not reached out of court, the matter will proceed to a trial where the attorney will represent your rights.
By retaining a La Porte drunk driving accident lawyer, you allow yourself the time and peace of mind to focus on recovery.
La Porte Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Near Me (832) 449-8230
Schedule a Free, No-risk Consultation With Our La Porte Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers
The stakes in drunk driving accidents are always high. Insurance companies often deny such claims. So, it’s your word against theirs. Don’t let insurers decide what justice is.
Let our drunk driving accident attorneys fight for you. Call us now to meet with our team.
Call or text (832) 449-8230 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form