Austin Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

In a split second, a drunk driving accident can shatter lives, leaving victims grappling with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and the daunting aftermath. The aftermath of such a devastating event demands more than just legal support; it calls for compassionate guidance through the complexities of the recovery journey. At Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson LLP, we understand the profound impact a drunk driving accident can have on individuals and families.

When you or a loved one has been a victim of a drunk driving accident, you don’t have to face the road to recovery alone. Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson, LLP is here to be your advocate, offering the legal expertise and compassionate support needed to navigate the aftermath of such a traumatic event. Our experienced team is committed to standing by your side, ensuring your voice is heard, and pursuing the fair compensation you deserve.

Common Excuses for Drunk Driving

Drivers give a lot of excuses. Some say they didn’t realize they were over the legal limit. Some say they didn’t have far to go. Others say it was their first time. Worse, some admit they have done it over and over, but never had an accident, until now.

Other excuses that police hear include:

• Those under the influence could not find their way home without the in-car GPS, so they decided to drive.
• Drivers had to get to work and claimed they would be fired if they did not show up or were late, so they went even though they were intoxicated.
• Some drivers claimed that they drank beer, rather than liquor, specifically so they would be safe to drive. Any alcohol can put someone far over the legal limit, but people often make unsafe assumptions.
• Drivers wanted to avoid parking tickets. They drove to the bar while sober, realized they would get a ticket or get towed if they took a cab home and decided to chance it.

These are just a few examples, but they demonstrate how this mindset contributes to the continuation of such a dangerous activity. Involved in an accident due to a drunk driver? Contact our experienced drunk driving accident lawyers in Austin for legal representation. 

Understanding the Legal Consequences of Drunk Driving

Drunk driving is illegal, and drivers can face criminal charges, fines and jail time. Even a first offense could lead to $2,000 in fines, 180 days behind bars and a year-long license suspension.

Whether a criminal conviction is made or not, the alleged drunk driver may still be held liable in civil court for causing injuries and/or death in a serious accident. Remember, even drivers who do not do something illegal are liable if they were negligent. That applies to drunk drivers, though a criminal conviction can help establish fault and liability. Either way, victims may seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

It’s also important to remember that the bar that over-served the driver may have a degree of liability. This can also apply to social hosts — like a homeowner — and restaurants. Those who are clearly intoxicated should not be served to the point that they represent a clear danger to the general public.

How to Prove Liability After a Drunk Driving Accident?

When a drunk driving accident shatters lives, the path to recovery often involves holding the responsible party accountable for their actions. Proving liability after such an incident is crucial to securing fair compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial toll it takes on victims and their families. 

Key steps to proving liability include:

• Police Reports and Investigations: After a drunk driving accident, law enforcement plays a critical role in documenting the incident. Police reports, field sobriety tests, and blood alcohol concentration (BAC) results provide valuable evidence. Gathering these documents and ensuring their accuracy is the initial step in establishing liability.
• Eyewitness Testimonies: Eyewitness accounts can significantly bolster your case. Collect contact information from individuals who witnessed the accident, as their testimonies can serve as powerful evidence in establishing the at-fault party’s impairment and negligence.
• Surveillance Footage: If available, surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras can provide a clear visual record of the events leading up to the accident. This visual evidence can be compelling in proving liability.
• Medical Records and Expert Testimonies: Medical records detailing injuries sustained in the accident, along with expert testimonies from healthcare professionals, can link the severity of damages directly to the drunk driving incident. These records are crucial in determining the compensation victims may be entitled to.
• Toxicology Reports: Blood alcohol concentration results and toxicology reports are pivotal in proving the impairment of the at-fault party. Obtain these documents through legal channels to strengthen your case.
• Social Media and Communications: In today’s digital age, social media can serve as a source of evidence. Screenshots of posts or messages indicating the at-fault party’s drinking or impaired state at the time of the accident can be valuable in establishing liability.

Navigating the complexities of proving liability after a drunk driving accident requires legal expertise. Experienced drunk driving accident attorneys, like those at Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson LLP, specialize in handling such cases. 

How Does a Drunk Accident Lawyer Help You After the Accident?

When a drunk driving accident inflicts pain and upheaval, seeking fair compensation becomes essential for victims and their families. In the aftermath of such a traumatic event, a seasoned drunk driving accident lawyer plays a pivotal role in navigating the legal complexities, ensuring justice, and securing the compensation needed for recovery. 

• Legal Expertise and Case Assessment: Skilled drunk driving accident attorneys bring a wealth of legal knowledge to the table. They begin by thoroughly assessing the specifics of your case, considering factors such as police reports, eyewitness testimonies, medical records, and other crucial evidence. This comprehensive evaluation guides them in building a robust case to establish liability.
• Investigation and Evidence Gathering: A key aspect of proving liability in a drunk driving accident involves a meticulous investigation. Lawyers work with accident reconstruction experts, gather surveillance footage, and obtain toxicology reports to strengthen your case. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of the incident are thoroughly examined.
• Communication with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be a complex and challenging process. A skilled drunk driving accident lawyer serves as your intermediary, handling negotiations and communications with insurance providers. Their expertise allows them to navigate potential challenges and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
• Calculating Damages and Losses: Determining the extent of damages is a crucial step in seeking fair compensation. Drunk driving accident attorneys work closely with medical professionals, economists, and other experts to assess the accident’s full impact on your life. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that the compensation demand accounts for all present and future losses.
• Advocacy in Legal Proceedings: A seasoned drunk driving accident lawyer will advocate for you in legal proceedings if a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations. They understand the intricacies of courtroom procedures, presenting a compelling case on your behalf. Their goal is to secure a favorable judgment that reflects the true extent of your damages.
• Emotional Support and Guidance: Beyond the legal aspects, a compassionate Austin drunk driving accident attorney understands the emotional toll such incidents take on victims and their families. They provide not only legal guidance but also emotional support, ensuring you feel heard and supported throughout the legal process.

At Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson LLP, our dedicated team of drunk driving accident lawyers specializes in drunk driving accident cases. We are committed to standing by your side, advocating for your rights, and ensuring the negligent party is held accountable.

Defending Your Rights After An Accident With A Drunk Driver

Any accident can cause immense turmoil, but when you’re injured as a result of a drunk driver’s careless choices, it can be especially challenging – ending up with physical, emotional, and financial losses as a result of a drunk driver is hard. Fortunately, you don’t need to face the process alone. A drunk driving accident attorney can help you deal with the legal process so you can focus on what matters most – your recovery.

Reclaiming your life after a drunk driving accident requires a dedicated and experienced ally. By choosing Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson LLP, you’re not just getting legal representation but gaining a partner committed to your well-being. Don’t let the consequences of someone else’s negligence define your future. Contact us today for a consultation by calling (512) 454-3751 or completing our contact form.