Sugar Land Drunk Driving Accident Attorney
Despite harsh legal penalties and numerous public awareness campaigns warning of the dangers, drunk driving continues to plague Texas roadways. The Department of Transportation (TXDOT) reports that almost 900 people lose their lives in collisions where a motorist was under the influence of alcohol, representing a shocking 25 percent of all traffic-related fatalities. Thousands more victims suffer injuries in DUI crashes that could have been avoided had the driver complied with laws to protect public safety.
You could incur massive losses as the victim of a drunk driving collision, so it is reassuring to know that Texas personal injury laws allow you to seek compensation. However, the legal process can be complicated and confusing. Instead of putting your rights at risk, count on The West Law Office to fight for the monetary damages you deserve. You can schedule free consultation with a Sugar Land drunk driving accident attorney, but some general information may also be useful.
Understanding Your Rights in a DUI Crash
Drunk driving is against the law, so a motorist faces jail time, a license suspension, and other penalties. Still, the Texas criminal process is intended to punish offenders. You are not a party to the DUI case and will not receive any compensation regardless of the outcome.
Instead, your rights after a drunk driving accident are through civil proceedings. These cases are based upon negligence, so you need to prove that the other motorist failed to exercise reasonable care when driving. Consuming alcohol and getting behind the wheel is solid evidence of negligence, putting you in a good position to receive monetary damages. You should also note that you may be able to recover even if the drunk driver was not ticketed or convicted. The standard for a civil case is proof by a preponderance of the evidence, not guilt beyond a reasonable doubt as in a criminal matter.
Drunk Driving Accident Victims May Qualify for Monetary Damages
Compensation in a DUI crash claim is intended to recoup your losses, so you may be eligible to recover for your medical costs and lost wages. It may also be possible to obtain amounts for pain and suffering, emotional anguish, and other noneconomic damages, and The West Law Office will pursue all available forms of compensation.
In addition, you may be entitled to punitive damages in a DUI collision claim. These amounts, sometimes called exemplary damages, aim to punish the wrongdoer for engaging in intentional misconduct or extreme recklessness. Punitive damages can be difficult to prove, but our Sugar Land DUI crash lawyers are adept at recovering them when allowed by law.
Speak to a Sugar Land Drunk Driving Accident Attorney for Free
While this overview may help you understand the basics, it should also convince you that retaining experienced counsel is essential after you suffer injuries in a DUI crash. To learn more about your rights, please contact The West Law Office right away. Victims in Fort Bend County and other parts of Southeast Texas can call 281-347-3247 to set up a no-cost case assessment.
