After a drunk driving accident in San Antonio, you need the right legal support. You don't need a rundown of all the legal complexities. You need a legal guide who understands what you're going through and can pull you through it.
That's where we come in. The personal injury attorneys at Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC, have considerable experience handling drunk driving accident claims throughout San Antonio and the surrounding areas. Our focus is on providing straightforward assistance, helping you navigate the aftermath of an unfortunate situation. We understand accidents happen, but when it results from someone else's choices, you deserve someone in your corner.
Let us handle the legalities, so you can concentrate on recovery. We're here to support you through this challenging time. Contact us today for your free consultation with our San Antonio drunk driving accident lawyers.
Why Work with Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC to Handle Your San Antonio Drunk Driving Accident Claim
Choosing Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC for your San Antonio drunk driving accident claim means selecting a team committed to your well-being and legal success.
- Experience that Matters: With years of experience in handling cases like yours, we understand the nuances of drunk driving accidents. We've navigated the legal terrain, securing favorable outcomes for our clients.
- Personalized Attention: We don't treat you as just another case. Your situation is unique, and we tailor our approach accordingly. Expect personal attention that addresses your specific needs and concerns.
- Proven Track Record: Our track record speaks volumes. We have successfully obtained fair compensation for our clients, holding accountable those responsible for the pain and disruption caused by drunk driving accidents.
- Guidance through Complexity: Legal processes can be overwhelming, but we're here to simplify them for you. We provide clear, concise guidance, ensuring you understand each step of the way.
- Compassionate Advocacy: Dealing with the aftermath of a drunk driving accident is emotionally challenging. We approach your case with empathy, providing not just legal support but also understanding the impact on your life.
- Transparent Communication: Communication is key. We keep you informed about the progress of your case, answer your questions promptly, and ensure you're always in the loop.
- Results-Driven Approach: Our focus is on results. We work diligently to build a strong case, negotiate on your behalf, and, if necessary, litigate to secure the compensation you deserve.
Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on recovering. Contact our law office today for your free consultation.
What Are Texas’s DUI Laws?
In Texas, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08 percent. However, a lower BAC can lead to charges if it impairs the driver's abilities. Additionally, drivers found with a BAC of 0.15 percent or higher may receive enhanced charges and penalties.
Texas has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21. For individuals under 21 years old, any detectable amount of alcohol in their system while operating a vehicle is illegal.
Additionally, commercial drivers in Texas are subject to stricter standards. They can be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) if their BAC is 0.04 percent or higher while operating a commercial vehicle.
Law enforcement officers in Texas use various methods to determine a driver's level of impairment, including field sobriety tests and breathalyzer tests. Refusing to submit to a breath or blood test can result in automatic license suspension.
Driving under the influence not only poses a significant risk to the driver but also endangers the lives of others on the road. Legal consequences for drunk driving in Texas can include fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions.
San Antonio Drunk Driving Accident Statistics
Unfortunately, San Antonio ranks among the highest for any city in Texas for drunk driving accidents. In a recent year, San Antonio reported almost 2,000 drunk driving crashes, resulting in 107 serious injuries and 57 fatalities.
How Can I Hold a Drunk Driver Liable for My Injuries and Losses?
If a drunk driver caused an accident in San Antonio that injured you, holding them accountable for your injuries and losses involves taking specific steps.
Here's a guide on things you should do to protect yourself and your rights to pursue compensation:
- Prioritize Your Safety: Ensure your immediate safety and the safety of others. Seek medical attention promptly for any injuries. Make your well-being your top priority.
- Contact Law Enforcement: Report the accident to the police, providing them with accurate and detailed information. A police report can establish liability.
- Gather Evidence: Collect evidence at the scene, such as photographs, witness statements, and any other relevant information. You need this evidence to build your case.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor initially, seek medical attention. Some injuries may not immediately appear, and a medical examination creates a record of your injuries.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the drunk driver. You need this information to file a claim.
- Do Not Discuss Fault: Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you later. Stick to the facts when speaking with the police and other parties involved.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the necessary details but avoid accepting any settlement offers without consulting your attorney.
- Document Your Damages: Keep records of medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and any other expenses related to the accident. This documentation strengthens your case when seeking compensation.
- Contact an Attorney: Reach out to a qualified personal injury attorney experienced in handling drunk driving accident cases. They can provide valuable guidance on the legal aspects of your situation.
You have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Working with an experienced attorney can significantly enhance your chances of a successful outcome.
A San Antonio drunk driving accident lawyer from Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC, will guide you through the legal process and protect your rights and interests every step of the way.
What Types of Compensation Can I Get for My San Antonio Drunk Driving Accident Injuries?
After a San Antonio drunk driving accident, you may recover compensation to recover both financially and physically.
Here's a breakdown of the potential compensation you can seek:
- Medical Expenses: You could get compensation for current and future medical costs, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any other necessary medical treatments related to your injuries.
- Lost Income: You may receive reimbursement for income you've lost due to the accident, including wages from missed work, and potential future earnings if your injuries affect your ability to work.
- Property Damage: You could obtain compensation for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Rehabilitation and Therapy Costs: You could get compensation for the costs associated with rehabilitation, physical therapy, counseling, or any other necessary treatments to help you recover.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: You could recover compensation for miscellaneous expenses directly related to the accident, such as transportation costs to medical appointments or home care expenses.
- Pain and Suffering: An attorney could help you recover non-economic damages to compensate for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the accident and your injuries.
- Loss of Consortium: Your spouse or partner could pursue compensation for the negative impact your injuries have had on your relationship.
- Wrongful Death Damages: In the tragic event of a fatality, you may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional distress.
- Punitive Damages: In some cases, the court may award punitive damages to punish the drunk driver for their reckless behavior and deter others from engaging in similar conduct.
Consult an experienced San Antonio personal injury attorney to assess the specific details of your case and determine the types of compensation you may be entitled to. They can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, pursue legal action to secure the compensation you deserve.
Does a Criminal Court Need to Convict a Drunk Driver Before I File a Personal Injury Claim?
No. Criminal and civil cases are separate legal matters, and an individual can face both criminal charges for driving under the influence (DUI) and a civil lawsuit for personal injury resulting from the same incident.
In a personal injury claim, you (the injured party) have the right to seek compensation for your damages directly from the at-fault party, regardless of whether they are convicted in a criminal court. The burden of proof in a civil case is different from that in a criminal case. While a criminal case requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt, a civil case typically requires a preponderance of the evidence, meaning it's more likely than not that the defendant's actions caused the injuries.
Even if the drunk driver is not convicted or faces lesser criminal charges, you can still pursue a personal injury claim to recover damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses resulting from the accident.
It's important to consult with a personal injury attorney who can assess the specific circumstances of your case, guide you through the legal process, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. They can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit to seek a favorable outcome for your personal injury claim.
How Long Do I Have to Sue a Drunk Driver in San Antonio?
In San Antonio and throughout Texas, you typically have only two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in civil court. This includes drunk driving injury claims as well as wrongful death claims resulting from a drunk driving accident.
It's crucial to be aware of these time limits because if you fail to file a lawsuit within the specified timeframe, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries or losses.
Please note that laws can change, and it's advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney in San Antonio to get the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the statute of limitations for your specific case. They can provide guidance on the applicable deadlines and help you take timely action if you decide to pursue a legal claim.
Contact Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC, Today
If you suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a San Antonio drunk driving accident, you don’t have to navigate the complexities of pursuing compensation alone. The experienced legal team at Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC, is here to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait. You must get started on your claim right away to help preserve evidence and meet any prescribed deadlines. Contact us today at (210) 320-1529 for your free consultation with our knowledgeable San Antonio drunk driving accident lawyers.