Dallas Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys

Skilled Legal Counsel Serving Clients Across Texas

Deciding to get behind the wheel of a car after having too much to drink is one of the costliest mistakes a person will ever make and can have devastating repercussions. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Texas consistently has one of the highest numbers of drunk driving-related deaths in the country. In Texas, a drunk driving accident occurs approximately every 35 minutes. The sad reality is that thousands of people’s lives are turned upside down because of the negligence of someone who gets behind the wheel after having too much to drink.

These types of accidents often result in serious injuries and death, causing unnecessary emotional, physical, and financial damage to the victims and their loved ones. While numerous agencies aim to educate drivers about the dangers of drinking and driving, thousands of people still opt to drive while intoxicated. Unfortunately, many people do not learn their lesson and end up becoming repeat offenders. An estimated 70% of impaired drivers in fatal car accidents have been convicted of a DUI or DWI before. This statistic shows just how serious drinking and driving is. Individuals who put the lives of others at risk must be held accountable for their actions. The attorneys at Duke Seth PLLC have represented victims of drunk driving accidents and are prepared to do the same for you. We understand how life-changing these types of accidents can be and will do everything we can to help you obtain compensation and justice.

Schedule your free initial consultation by calling our drunk driving accident lawyers in Dallas at (214) 466-1740 or filling out our online contact form today.

Injuries Resulting from Drunk Driving Accidents

Intoxicated drivers are not the only ones who have potential responsibility for drunk driving accidents. According to Texas law, an establishment can be held liable for serving an intoxicated person if: (1) the person being served was obviously intoxicated to the extent that he presented a clear danger to himself and others, and (2) the intoxication of a person was the proximate cause of the injured party’s damages. This is referred to as the Texas Dram Shop Law and it applies to bars, restaurants, and all stores that sell or serve alcoholic beverages.

There are many injuries that someone who has been involved in an accident with a drunk driver may suffer, including the following:

• Spinal cord injury
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Broken or fractured bones
• Whiplash
• Lacerations or bruises
• Paralysis
• Death

These injuries can require lengthy hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, and follow-up care that may last for months or years. Many people are unable to return to work right away, and some cannot go back to their prior jobs at all because of permanent limitations. A drunk driving accident lawyer Dallas residents turn to for help can work with your medical providers to document the full extent of your injuries, anticipated future treatment, and the ways your daily life has been changed. This information is critical when pursuing compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.

In addition to physical harm, victims often experience anxiety, sleep disturbances, and other emotional effects after a serious collision on roads such as I-35E, I-30, the Dallas North Tollway, or Highway 75. You might feel nervous about driving again or struggle with the trauma of what happened, especially if a loved one was also injured. When we evaluate your claim, we consider both the visible injuries and these less obvious impacts so the full scope of what you have been through is presented to the insurance company or to a jury in a Dallas-area court.

Understanding the Drunk Driving Accident Claim Process

After a drunk driving crash, many people are unsure how the legal process actually works or how long it may take. In most cases, a claim begins with an investigation into the collision, which can include reviewing the police report, obtaining any breath or blood test results, and gathering photographs or video from the scene. We may also look at whether criminal charges such as DWI are being prosecuted in Dallas County or another North Texas county, because the evidence in that criminal case can affect the civil claim. Having a clear picture of what happened is the first step toward building a strong claim for compensation.

Once the facts are developed, we typically present a demand package to the insurance company that sets out how the crash occurred, the injuries you suffered, and the financial and personal losses you have experienced. Negotiations with the insurer often follow, and this stage can involve back-and-forth discussions about liability and the value of your damages. If a fair resolution cannot be reached, we can file a lawsuit in the appropriate civil court, such as a district court in Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, or Denton County, and continue pursuing your claim through the litigation process. At each step, we explain your options, provide guidance based on our experience with Texas personal injury law, and help you make informed decisions about settlement versus trial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after being hit by a drunk driver in Dallas? 

Your health and safety are the top priority. Call the police to the scene so they can assess the situation and administer field sobriety tests if necessary. Seek immediate medical attention even if you feel fine, as some injuries are not instantly apparent. Finally, contact a qualified attorney before speaking with the insurance company of the at fault driver.

Can I seek punitive damages in a Texas drunk driving accident case? 

Yes, Texas law allows victims to seek punitive damages when gross negligence is involved, such as a driver choosing to operate a vehicle under the influence. These damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. An attorney can evaluate your specific case to determine if pursuing these additional damages is appropriate.

Who can be held liable for a drunk driving crash besides the driver? 

Under the Texas Dram Shop Act, establishments like bars, restaurants, or clubs that serve alcohol to an obviously intoxicated person may be held partially liable for the resulting damages. Proving this requires specific evidence showing the establishment knew or should have known the patron was a danger to themselves and others. Our team investigates all potential sources of liability to maximize your recovery.

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Dallas? 

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is generally two years from the date of the collision. Failing to file a lawsuit within this time frame usually means you lose your right to pursue compensation. However, investigating a drunk driving claim takes time, so it is crucial to begin the legal process as soon as possible.

Will the criminal case against the drunk driver affect my civil claim? 

A criminal conviction for driving while intoxicated can strongly support your civil claim by establishing negligence. However, civil and criminal cases proceed separately, and you can still win your personal injury case even if the driver is not convicted in criminal court. The burden of proof is lower in a civil case, making it entirely independent of the criminal outcome.

Secure Your Future After a Dallas Drunk Driving Collision

The physical and financial aftermath of an impaired driving crash can overwhelm your family. Partnering with the Dallas drunk driving accident attorneys at Duke Seth PLLC ensures your rights are protected and the responsible parties are held fully accountable. Do not let a reckless driver force you to pay for their mistakes. Contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation.

Contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation.