Drunk driving accidents are a prevalent and tragic issue in Bastrop, as well as across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 30 people die every day in the U.S. due to drunk driving accidents. When someone is injured or killed in a drunk driving collision, it is crucial for the victim and their family to pursue compensation through civil litigation.
The Adley Law Firm is well-versed in handling drunk driving accident cases and is dedicated to helping victims and their families obtain the justice they deserve. Our experienced team of Bastrop drunk driving accident attorneys will guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and that the responsible parties are held accountable.
How Can A Bastrop Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Assist You?
It is important to understand the distinction between criminal and civil legal proceedings in the context of drunk driving accidents. While a criminal case may result in fines, probation, or imprisonment, it does not provide direct compensation to the victim or their family. A civil lawsuit, on the other hand, allows the victim to seek financial compensation from the responsible parties.
Retaining a skilled Bastrop drunk driving accident lawyer to represent your interests in a civil lawsuit is essential. The Adley Law Firm has extensive experience in handling drunk driving accident cases and can effectively navigate the complexities of the legal system on your behalf. Our team will work tirelessly to build a strong case and negotiate with insurance companies to achieve the best possible outcome for you, whether that means settling the case outside of court or advocating for you during a trial.
Understanding Bastrop Drunk Driving Laws and Regulations
In Texas, driving while intoxicated (DWI) and driving under the influence (DUI) are criminal offenses that involve operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above the legal limit. For drivers aged 21 and older, the legal BAC limit is 0.08%, while drivers under the age of 21 are subject to a zero-tolerance policy, meaning any detectable amount of alcohol in their system constitutes a DUI.
Impaired driving can be identified by several indicators, such as erratic driving behavior, slurred speech, and the smell of alcohol on the driver’s breath. These indicators, along with the results of field sobriety tests and chemical tests, can be used as evidence in both criminal and civil cases related to drunk driving accidents.
DWI and DUI laws play a significant role in your civil lawsuit. A conviction for DWI or DUI can be used as evidence of negligence, which may strengthen your case and increase the likelihood of obtaining compensation for your injuries.
Identifying Liable Parties in a Bastrop Drunk Driving Accident
While the intoxicated driver is often the primary responsible party in a drunk driving accident, there may be additional parties that share liability. A skilled Bastrop drunk driving accident attorney will thoroughly investigate your case to identify all possible responsible parties.
For example, an employer may be held liable if the drunk driver was operating a company vehicle or conducting work-related activities at the time of the accident. In some cases, alcohol vendors or social hosts who provided alcohol to the intoxicated driver may also share responsibility under Texas’ dram shop and social host liability laws.
Compensation Available in a Bastrop Drunk Driving Accident Claim
Victims of drunk driving accidents may be eligible to seek various forms of compensatory damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Additionally, in cases where the at-fault driver’s conduct was particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from engaging in similar behavior.
Pursuing punitive damages can be particularly significant in drunk driving cases, as they can send a strong message about the intolerable nature of drunk driving and its devastating consequences.
Commonly Asked Questions About Drunk Driving Accidents
- What should I do after a drunk driving accident?
- How long do I have to file a drunk driving accident claim in Texas?
- Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?
- What evidence is needed to prove negligence in a drunk driving accident case?
- How is the value of my drunk driving accident claim determined?
- What if the drunk driver is uninsured or underinsured?
- Can I sue the bar or restaurant that served the drunk driver?
- How long will it take to resolve my drunk driving accident case?
- What are the potential outcomes of a drunk driving accident lawsuit?
- How can a Bastrop drunk driving accident lawyer help my case?
For informative responses and resources to these questions, reach out to a knowledgeable attorney who can provide personalized guidance based on the specifics of your case.
Reach Out to a Bastrop Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, do not hesitate to contact The Adley Law Firm for a complimentary and private consultation. Our team of experienced legal professionals is dedicated to obtaining maximum financial recovery and justice for victims and their families.
We understand the devastating impact that a drunk driving accident can have on your life, and we are committed to guiding you through the legal process with compassion, skill, and determination. At The Adley Law Firm, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not be charged any attorney fees or case expenses unless we achieve a financial settlement on your behalf.
Contact a Bastrop drunk driving accident lawyer today to begin the process of holding the responsible parties accountable and seeking the compensation you deserve.
