Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer San Antonio

A crash caused by a drunk or drugged driver is not an accident in the everyday sense. It is the result of a choice that put other people at risk. If you or a family member was hurt, The Daspit Law Firm can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation from the people responsible.

Our San Antonio personal injury lawyers serve injured victims and grieving families across Bexar County and South Texas. We are available 24/7 to schedule your free case evaluation.

Why Drunk Driving Crashes Are So Dangerous

Alcohol and drugs slow reaction time, weaken judgment, and reduce coordination. When a collision is about to happen, an impaired driver may not be able to brake or steer in time. Many of these crashes also happen at night, when visibility is lower and impaired drivers are more likely to be on the road. The result is often a severe or fatal injury to someone who did nothing wrong.

Alcohol, drugs, and prescription medication

Impairment is not limited to alcohol. Illegal drugs and some prescription or over-the-counter medications can also make driving unsafe. If your crash involved a driver on drugs, see our page on drugged driving.

Who Can Be Held Liable After a Drunk Driving Accident

The impaired driver is the obvious responsible party, but insurance companies may still try to shift blame or minimize what they pay. A lawyer can investigate every source of recovery, which may include:

•         The impaired driver and their insurance policy.

•         An employer, if the driver was working at the time of the crash.

•         A bar, restaurant, or other business that served alcohol, where Texas dram shop law may apply.

•         Your own insurance coverage, such as uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.

A criminal DWI case is separate from your civil claim. A conviction or plea can be useful evidence, but your right to pursue compensation does not depend on one.

Compensation You May Be Able to Pursue

Victims and families harmed by drunk drivers have the right to seek financial compensation for their losses. Depending on your case, damages may include:

•         Past and future medical expenses

•         Lost wages and reduced earning capacity

•         Pain and suffering and emotional distress

•         Property damage, including the loss of a vehicle

•         Funeral and burial costs in a wrongful death claim

Because drunk driving is reckless conduct, Texas law may also allow a claim for exemplary damages in some cases. Whether that applies depends on the facts of your crash.

What to Do After a Drunk Driving Crash

•         Call 911 and request medical attention and a police report.

•         Do not argue with the other driver, but note any signs of impairment you observe.

•         Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and your injuries.

•         Get contact details for witnesses and the other driver's insurance information.

•         Seek medical care right away and keep every record and bill.

•         Speak with a lawyer before giving a recorded statement to any insurance company.

Why Choose The Daspit Law Firm

We are just as determined as you are to secure the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies are often focused on paying as little as possible, and we do not let that go unchallenged. We take your fight as far as it needs to go, whether that means negotiation or trial.

If you are also dealing with a serious crash involving other vehicles, our car accident team can help. We accept personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, so you pay no upfront legal fees.

Talk to a San Antonio Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Today

Do not suffer for someone else's wrongdoing. Contact The Daspit Law Firm to schedule your free case evaluation. We are available 24/7 and can arrange home or hospital visits if you are unable to travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a drunk driving injury claim in Texas?

Most Texas personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the date of the injury under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code section 16.003. Wrongful death claims generally follow the same two-year period. Waiting can make evidence harder to find, so contact a lawyer as soon as you can.

Do I need a DWI conviction to recover compensation?

No. A civil injury claim is separate from the criminal case and uses a different standard of proof. A conviction can help, but you may still pursue compensation if the driver was never charged or the charges were reduced.

Can I sue a bar or restaurant that served the driver?

In some situations, yes. Texas dram shop law may allow a claim against a business that served alcohol to a person who was obviously intoxicated and presented a clear danger. These cases depend on the facts, so a lawyer should review what happened.

What if the drunk driver has little or no insurance?

You may still have options. Your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may apply, and other responsible parties may be identified during an investigation. Review your policy and speak with a lawyer before accepting any offer.

How much does it cost to hire Daspit Law Firm?

We handle personal injury claims on a contingency fee basis. You pay no upfront legal fees, and the fee comes from the compensation we recover for you. Your initial case evaluation is free.