The impact of these accidents is felt by victims and their families, leaving them to deal with severe injuries, emotional trauma, and, in far too many cases, the loss of a loved one. If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a crash caused by a drunk driver, seeking legal action is an important step toward getting the compensation you need.
At Patterson Law Group, our San Antonio DWI accident lawyers are dedicated to helping victims like you. We understand how overwhelming this process can be, and we are here to guide you every step of the way to ensure you receive the compensation you need during this challenging time.
San Antonio DUI Accident Lawsuits
After a severe DUI accident, victims often wonder what their options are for holding the responsible parties accountable. In Texas, victims have the right to file civil lawsuits against the drunk driver to seek compensation. Unlike criminal DUI charges, which focus on punishing the offender, civil lawsuits are designed to help victims recover financially from their losses.
The compensation in these cases can cover a wide range of damages. Victims can recover for medical expenses related to their injuries, lost wages if they are unable to work, and even the pain and suffering endured from the accident. Working with a DWI accident attorney in San Antonio ensures your case is thoroughly investigated and all potential compensation is pursued.
San Antonio DUI Accident Claims
DUI accidents are entirely preventable, yet they continue to happen at an alarming rate. Victims of these accidents have the right to file claims to recover compensation for their injuries and losses. Filing a claim begins with gathering evidence, such as police reports, medical records, and eyewitness testimonies. From there, a lawsuit can be filed to seek damages.
At Patterson Law Group, our accident attorneys in San Antonio understand the challenges victims face in these cases. We will guide you through the legal process, help you file your claim, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses and expenses.
How Alcohol Impacts Your Ability to Drive
Alcohol impairs a driver’s ability to make safe decisions on the road. Drinking affects concentration, judgment, and comprehension, all essential for safe driving. It also reduces coordination, vision, hearing, and reaction times. These effects significantly increase the likelihood of accidents.
Even a small amount of alcohol can impair a person’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. This is why driving under the influence is such a serious offense, and those who cause accidents while drunk must be held accountable.
Who Is Responsible for Drunk Driving Accidents?
Responsibility for drunk driving accidents lies primarily with the driver who chose to get behind the wheel while intoxicated. However, other parties may also share in the liability.
- Drivers: The drunk driver is responsible for the decisions they make, including the choice to drive while impaired.
- Hosts: In some cases, individuals who host parties and serve alcohol may be held accountable under social host laws if they knowingly allow a guest to drive drunk.
- Bar and Restaurant Owners: Texas has dram shop laws, which hold establishments accountable if they serve alcohol to someone who is intoxicated. These businesses have a responsibility to stop serving patrons who have had too much to drink, and if they fail to do so, they can be sued for any resulting accidents.
Most Common Types of DUI Accidents in San Antonio
DUI accidents can occur in many different forms. Some of the most common types of accidents involving drunk drivers in San Antonio include:
- Head-on collisions: These occur when a drunk driver veers into oncoming traffic.
- Rear-end collisions: Impaired drivers often fail to react in time to stop for vehicles in front of them.
- Wrong-way accidents: Drunk drivers may drive on the wrong side of the road, leading to devastating crashes.
- Pedestrian accidents: Impaired drivers may not notice pedestrians, leading to tragic consequences.
- Jackknife accidents: Often involving large trucks, these accidents can occur when the driver loses control due to intoxication.
- Rollover accidents: Rollover accidents are especially deadly, and drunk drivers are more prone to losing control and causing their vehicles to flip.
- Drowsy driving accidents: Alcohol can tire drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.
- One-vehicle accidents: Drunk drivers may lose control and crash into stationary objects or go off the road.
- Unsafe passing incidents: Drunk drivers often make reckless decisions, including unsafe passing, which can lead to serious accidents.
Can You Sue a Drunk Driver?
Yes, victims of drunk driving accidents have the legal right to sue the driver responsible for their injuries. A civil lawsuit allows victims to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
To successfully sue a drunk driver, evidence must be collected to show that the driver was intoxicated at the time of the accident. Police reports, witness statements, and any violations of traffic laws can be used to prove negligence in court. Working with an experienced San Antonio DWI accident lawyer is crucial for building a strong case and achieving a fair outcome.
How Do DUI Charges Affect Drunk Driving Lawsuits?
It’s important to note that civil lawsuits for drunk driving accidents are separate from criminal DUI charges. Even if the driver is facing criminal prosecution, you don’t have to wait for the outcome of that case to file your lawsuit. Civil cases focus on compensating victims, while criminal cases are meant to punish the offender.
Victims should consult with a DWI accident attorney in San Antonio as soon as possible to begin filing a lawsuit. Time is of the essence, and early action can make a big difference in securing the compensation you need and deserve.
What Are Texas Dram Shop Laws?
Texas Dram shop laws are designed to hold establishments accountable when they over-serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals. If a bar, restaurant, or other establishment continues to serve someone who is clearly impaired, they may be held liable for any accidents that occur as a result of that person’s intoxication.
These laws help ensure that businesses take responsibility for preventing drunk driving accidents.
Who Can You File a Dram Shop Claim Against in San Antonio?
Under Texas law, victims of drunk driving accidents can file dram shop claims against business owners who over-served the driver responsible for the accident. This type of claim can be challenging, and it’s important to work with an injury attorney in San Antonio, TX, to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.
Filing a dram shop claim requires gathering evidence, such as receipts, video footage, and witness statements, to prove that the establishment continued to serve alcohol to someone who was visibly intoxicated.
Injuries That Occur During Drunk Driving Accidents
- Traumatic brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries can lead to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
- Broken bones: Fractures often occur in high-impact crashes.
- Spinal cord injuries: These accidents can result in paralysis or other serious complications.
- Internal injuries: Damage to internal organs can be life-threatening.
- Soft tissue injuries: These include whiplash and other injuries that affect muscles and ligaments.
- Burns: Accidents involving fire or explosions can leave victims with severe burns.
The road to recovery is often long and challenging, with some injuries requiring ongoing care or rehabilitation. Whether you or a loved one is dealing with a serious injury, it’s important to understand that you don’t have to face this journey alone.
Seeking justice through legal action helps ease the financial burden and holds the responsible party accountable. At Patterson Law Group, we’re here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you need to move forward.
Why You Need a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer in San Antonio
If you or a loved one was injured as a result of a car crash with a drunk driver, it’s essential to have an experienced attorney on your side. An accident attorney in San Antonio can help you understand your rights and fight for fair and timely compensation.
At Patterson Law Group, our team will assess your case, gather evidence, and work with medical professionals to ensure you receive the necessary care. We will handle negotiations with insurance companies and represent you in court if necessary.
Don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact our San Antonio auto collision lawyers today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you every step of the way, ensuring that you receive the compensation you need to move forward.
