On This Page
Accidents caused by someone driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) can lead to a complex legal case. You’ll need an Austin DUI attorney to help you examine evidence, gather eyewitness or expert testimony and seek compensation for your losses.
Thomas J. Henry Law has a history of securing the results our clients deserve from drunk driving cases. Your lawyer will take immediate action on your claim to put you in the best position to recover maximum compensation. Call us today for your free case consultation.
What Are the Leading Causes of Car Accidents?
Some of the most common reasons for car crashes in Austin include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Fatigue
- Vehicle malfunction
- Reckless driving
- Improper lane change
- Poor weather conditions
- Driving in the dark
- Drunk driving
What Are the Dangers of Driving Under the Influence?
In Texas, a DUI can result in many legal and financial consequences, including:
- Suspended driver’s license
- Probation
- Community service
- Fines
- Higher car insurance premiums
- Surcharges
- Jail time
In addition, the accident can seriously injure or cause the death of others on the road. These consequences can affect your health, wellness and future opportunities.
How Is Fault Attributed for Drunk Driving Accidents?
Fault is given to the party who caused the accident and will face legal responsibility for harm and damages. For drunk driver accidents in Austin, fault is determined based on the body of evidence. An insurance adjuster or a judge and jury will examine testimony and exhibits, such as:
- Police reports
- Photos and videos of the accident
- Eyewitness statements
- Expert testimony
If the evidence for fault is overwhelming, the insurance company may settle. Otherwise, your Austin drunk driving accident lawyer can examine the evidence and create a strong court case.
What Punitive Damages Can Be Recovered?
You can recover punitive damages designed to punish the impaired driver for their grossly negligent or reckless conduct. In the event of a criminal trial, you may be entitled to punitive damages even if the criminal charges were dropped or the driver was found not guilty.
What Compensation Are You Entitled to From a Drunk Driver Accident?
Depending on the facts of your case, you can seek compensatory damages to make you whole after you’re hurt in a drunk driving accident. You can be entitled to compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Diminished future income
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Physical impairment
- Related expenses
Austin Drunk Driving Crash Statistics
Austin, Texas, has many car crashes as a result of drunk driving. According to a report from the Texas Department of Transportation, there were 54 suspected serious crashes and 68 suspected serious injuries from DUI car accidents in 2023. Most DUI drivers involved in these crashes were between 21 and 26 years old. About 13% of these car accidents happened between 2 a.m. and 2:59 a.m.
Among the major cities in Texas, Austin has some of the lowest rates for fatal DUI crashes, with 15 fatal crashes and 18 fatalities in 2023. Most of these fatal crashes took place in August, which saw 96 fatal crashes and 109 fatalities across the state.
Contact an Experienced Austin DWI Lawyer
If you are a victim of someone driving while intoxicated, an Austin lawyer at Thomas J. Henry will put you in the best position to get the compensation you deserve. We have over 200 attorneys ready with extensive legal knowledge and resources to settle your case. We are available 24/7, including nights and weekends, to review your case.
Call our office at 866-747-8731 or contact us online for a free case review. Our firm has offices in Austin, San Antonio, Houston, Dallas and Corpus Christi.
