Few things are as reckless as driving under the influence. Yet, drunk driving remains a frequent problem in Austin and across the United States, turning ordinary commutes into devastating events. While many attorneys defend impaired drivers in criminal court, there are dedicated legal professionals who fight for the victims of these senseless actions in civil court. They know how to establish liability and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf even if the at-fault driver hasn’t been charged with DWI. If you’ve been harmed by a drunk driver, an experienced Austin drunk driving accident attorney can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Drunk driving isn’t just negligent, it’s a reckless behavior that significantly increases the risk of serious injuries such as head trauma, spinal cord damage, paralysis, or even wrongful death. When filing a claim against a drunk driver, it’s often necessary to seek both:
● Compensatory Damages: To cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial losses.
● Punitive Damages: Designed to penalize the defendant for their grossly irresponsible behavior.
The right attorney can make a crucial difference in the outcome of your case. They can obtain key evidence like breathalyzer results and blood tests to prove the driver’s impairment and monitor related criminal proceedings to swiftly establish liability.
Recognizing Signs of Driver Intoxication
Under the law, a driver is considered legally intoxicated with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or higher. However, even lower levels may indicate impairment when accompanied by other signs, such as:
● Slurred speech
● Red, glassy eyes
● A strong odor of alcohol in the vehicle
● Open containers of alcohol
● Erratic driving behavior, like speeding or drifting out of lanes
● Admissions of drinking or drug use Intoxication can result from alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter remedies. Any impairment that leads to unsafe driving and ultimately causes an accident can serve as evidence in your case.
