Every 50 minutes, someone in the United States loses their life due to a drunk driving accident. In Texas, the frequency is even more alarming, with a person being hurt or killed in an alcohol-related crash every 20 minutes. If you or a loved one has been affected by drunk driving in San Antonio, contact Reynaldo Diaz Accident Injury Attorney PC for compassionate representation and help securing the compensation you deserve.
Hold intoxicated drivers accountable for your losses
Drunk driving refers to operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, impairing the driver’s ability to think clearly, react swiftly, and control the vehicle. Alcohol suppresses the central nervous system, which affects a person’s judgment, coordination, and perception. Drivers are considered legally intoxicated with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. However, a person can still be charged with drunk driving even if their BAC is below 0.08% if their mental or physical faculties are impaired.
Texas has strict laws for drunk driving. A first offense can result in fines, license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education programs. Subsequent offenses carry more severe penalties, including longer license suspensions, higher fines, and possible jail time. If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, Mr. Diaz is here to guide you through the legal process and help secure the compensation you deserve.
Common reasons for drunk
driving accidents:
- Impaired judgment and decision-making skills
- Slower reaction times and delayed reflexes
- Reduced ability to judge distances and speed
- Increased risk of reckless driving behaviors
- Difficulty maintaining lane control or steering
- Decreased coordination and muscle control
- Inability to focus on traffic signals and signs
- A greater likelihood of driving at unsafe speeds
- Increased fatigue and disorientation from alcohol
- Emotional instability leading to poor driving decisions
Why call a drunk driving accident attorney
After a drunk driving accident, you may be facing medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress while trying to make sense of a complex legal process. It’s a difficult time, and you shouldn’t have to go through it alone. A dedicated attorney can help you understand your rights, protect your interests, and pursue compensation from the party responsible. With the right guidance, you can begin to recover both financially and emotionally from the crash.
Here’s how an attorney can support your case:
- Gathering and preserving critical evidence
- Identifying all liable parties
- Communicating with insurance companies
- Calculating fair compensation for your losses
- Representing your interests in court, if needed
- Navigating Texas drunk driving laws and procedures
- Coordinating with investigators and expert witnesses
- Ensuring deadlines and legal requirements are met
Types of compensation available
Medical expenses
This covers the cost of treatment for injuries sustained in the accident, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical care you may need.
Lost wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for the income you’ve lost during your recovery period. This can include past and future earnings.
Pain and suffering
This compensation is meant to address the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish you experience as a result of the accident. This is based on the severity of your suffering.
Property damage
If your vehicle or personal property was damaged in the accident, you could receive compensation for repairs or replacement costs.
Loss of consortium
If the accident has affected your relationship with a spouse or partner, this compensation can cover the emotional and physical impact on your relationship.
Punitive damages
In cases where the drunk driver’s behavior was particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the driver and deter similar conduct in the future. These are separate from compensatory damages and are typically awarded in cases of gross negligence.
Steps to take immediately after a drunk driving accident:
- Call emergency services to report the accident and request medical assistance
- Ensure your safety by moving to a secure location, if possible
- Gather evidence by taking photos of the scene, damage, and injuries
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s)
- Collect witness contact information and statements, if available
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine at the moment
- Notify your insurance company about the accident
- Contact a qualified attorney to discuss your legal options
- Avoid admitting fault or making statements to insurance adjusters
- Keep detailed records of all medical treatments and expenses
Why choose Reynaldo Diaz after drunk driving accidents?
Reynaldo Diaz is a dedicated and experienced attorney who has spent over 35 years helping victims of drunk driving accidents in San Antonio and surrounding areas. His approach is built on trust, empathy, and a commitment to securing the best possible outcome for his clients. With Mr. Diaz by your side, you can expect compassionate representation, thorough investigation, and tireless advocacy. If you or a loved one has been affected by a drunk driving accident, schedule a consultation today to discuss your case.
