Drunk driving accidents are a prevalent and devastating issue in Galveston, as well as across the United States. Each year, thousands of lives are lost, and countless more are forever changed by the reckless actions of intoxicated drivers. The aftermath of a drunk driving accident often leaves victims and their families with overwhelming emotional and financial burdens. In these difficult times, it is crucial to seek justice and compensation for the harm caused by the negligent driver.
The Adley Law Firm is a leading Galveston drunk driving accident lawyer with extensive experience representing victims of these tragic incidents. Our team of skilled legal professionals is committed to holding drunk drivers accountable for their actions and securing maximum compensation for our clients.
How Can A Galveston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Support You?
When a drunk driver causes an accident, they may face criminal charges for their actions. However, the criminal justice system is primarily focused on punishing the offender, rather than compensating the victims for their losses. To recover damages, victims must pursue a civil claim against the responsible party.
Navigating the complexities of a civil claim can be challenging, particularly in the aftermath of a traumatic accident. A skilled Galveston drunk driving accident lawyer can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout this process. The Adley Law Firm is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal representation for victims of drunk driving accidents, ensuring that their rights are protected and their voices are heard.
In some cases, it may be possible to resolve a drunk driving accident claim through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or arbitration. Our team of experienced attorneys is well-versed in these approaches and will work diligently to achieve a fair and just outcome for our clients.
Understanding Galveston’s Drunk Driving Laws
In Texas, driving while intoxicated (DWI) and driving under the influence (DUI) are serious offenses. A driver is considered intoxicated if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, or if they are impaired due to the consumption of drugs or alcohol. Drivers under the age of 21 are held to a stricter standard, with any detectable amount of alcohol in their system constituting a DUI offense.
Common indicators of driver impairment include erratic driving, weaving between lanes, and slow reaction times. If a driver is found to be impaired and causes an accident, they may face both criminal and civil liability.
Galveston’s DWI/DUI laws play a significant role in your civil case, as an intoxicated driver’s negligence is often clear-cut. However, it is still essential to work with a knowledgeable Galveston drunk driving accident lawyer who can ensure that all relevant evidence is gathered and presented effectively.
Determining Liability in a Galveston Drunk Driving Accident
Establishing the accountability of the intoxicated driver is a critical step in pursuing a civil claim. This typically involves proving that the driver was impaired at the time of the accident and that their negligence directly caused your injuries and losses.
In some cases, additional parties may also bear responsibility for the accident. These can include employers who failed to properly screen or monitor their employees, businesses that over-served alcohol to an intoxicated patron, and social hosts who provided alcohol to a visibly intoxicated guest. Identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial, as it increases the chances of securing maximum compensation for your losses.
Compensation Options in a Galveston Drunk Driving Accident Claim
Victims of drunk driving accidents in Galveston may be eligible for various types of compensation. These can include economic damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, as well as non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
In addition to compensatory damages, victims may also seek punitive damages, which are intended to punish the wrongdoer and serve as a deterrent to others. Punitive damages can be particularly significant in drunk driving cases, as they send a strong message that such reckless behavior will not be tolerated.
Drunk Driving FAQ’s for Galveston Residents
Our team at The Adley Law Firm understands that victims and their families often have many questions following a drunk driving accident. To assist potential clients, we have compiled a list of 10 commonly asked questions and provided responses and resources to help guide you through this difficult time.
- What should I do immediately after a drunk driving accident?
- Call 911 and seek medical attention for any injuries.
- Report the accident to the police and cooperate with their investigation.
- Document the scene of the accident, including photographs and witness information.
- Contact a Galveston drunk driving accident lawyer for guidance.
- How long do I have to file a claim after a drunk driving accident?
- In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident.
- Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for the accident?
- Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which allows victims to recover damages as long as they are not more than 50% at fault.
- What if the drunk driver doesn’t have insurance, or their policy limits are insufficient to cover my losses?
- You may be able to pursue compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or by filing a claim against additional responsible parties.
- How do I prove that the other driver was intoxicated?
- Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and expert testimony can help establish the driver’s impairment at the time of the accident.
- Can I sue the bar or social host who provided alcohol to the drunk driver?
- Texas has dram shop and social host liability laws that may allow you to pursue a claim in certain circumstances.
- What if the drunk driver is a repeat offender?
- This information may be relevant in seeking punitive damages, as it demonstrates a pattern of reckless behavior.
- What is the difference between a DWI and a DUI?
- A DWI is charged when a driver has a BAC of 0.08% or higher, or is impaired due to drugs or alcohol. A DUI is charged when a driver under the age of 21 has any detectable amount of alcohol in their system.
- Can I still recover damages if the criminal case against the drunk driver is dismissed or they are found not guilty?
- Yes, the outcome of a criminal case does not necessarily impact your ability to pursue a civil claim.
- How much does it cost to hire a Galveston drunk driving accident lawyer?
- The Adley Law Firm handles cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no attorney fees or case expenses unless a monetary recovery is achieved.
Get in Touch with a Galveston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a drunk driving accident, we encourage you to contact The Adley Law Firm for a complimentary and confidential consultation. Our team of experienced attorneys is committed to securing maximum compensation and justice for victims and their families.
With our no recovery, no fee guarantee, you can trust that our team will work tirelessly on your behalf. Contact us today to begin the process of holding the drunk driver accountable and seeking the compensation you deserve.