Dallas Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Dallas Drunk Driving Accident Attorney

It is an unfortunate reality that someone else’s reckless decision to get behind the wheel when intoxicated can have life-altering consequences for innocent victims. A Dallas drunk driving accident lawyer can help victims of such accidents seek justice and compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial toll that these preventable incidents cause. Drunk driving accidents are not only dangerous but also entirely avoidable,

If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident, consulting a Dallas personal injury lawyer can ensure that you receive the legal guidance you need. An experienced attorney will work diligently to protect your rights, help navigate insurance claims, and secure the compensation you deserve for lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

Why Choose Merritt & Merritt Law Firm?

At Merritt & Merritt Law Firm, we bring over 45 years of experience fighting for victims of drunk driving accidents in Dallas. We understand how these serious injuries and wrongful deaths can leave lasting, devastating consequences for surviving loved ones. We offer compassionate, client-focused legal representation to help you seek the justice and compensation you need.

The financial hardships endured by surviving loved ones can be significant. We can carefully calculate the value of those losses before tirelessly fighting for compensation. Although no amount of money can undo the pain you are suffering, compensation can undo the financial harm that you have had to endure.

Steps to Take Following a Drunk Driving Collision

If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving collision, it is crucial to take immediate steps to protect your safety and legal rights. First, ensure your safety and call 911 to report the accident if anyone has possibly been harmed. Tell the dispatcher where the collision occurred and how many people may have been injured. If you can safely do so, move away from moving traffic.

Once you can safely do so, gather evidence by taking photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Obtain the other driver’s contact and insurance information, and gather witness details if possible. Be sure to get a copy of the police report, which can document the driver’s suspected intoxication and other details relevant to your case.

Notify your insurance company about the accident and avoid making statements that could be used against you. Consult with a drunk driving accident attorney who can guide you through the legal process.

Can I Take Legal Action If the At-fault Driver Is Facing Criminal Charges?

Yes, you can take legal action even if the at-fault driver is facing criminal charges. Criminal cases and civil claims are separate legal proceedings. While criminal charges aim to punish the driver for violating the law through fines, probation terms, and potential incarceration, civil claims seek to compensate you for damages caused by the accident.

In certain cases, the outcome of the criminal trial, such as a conviction, could strengthen your civil case by proving the driver’s negligence or recklessness. Even if the driver is not convicted, the civil case can still proceed with sufficient evidence and financial compensation may still be awarded.

Burden of Proof

The burden of proof in a civil case is lower than in a criminal trial, meaning it is possible to be awarded financial compensation even if the defendant is not convicted in criminal court.

Here’s a brief overview:

• Guilt beyond a reasonable doubt: This is the highest standard of proof in the legal system and applies to all criminal cases. The prosecution has to prove that the defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This means that the evidence must be so strong that there is no reasonable doubt in the mind of the jury or judge about the defendant’s guilt.Because criminal penalties can have life-altering effects, the legal system demands a higher level of certainty before convicting someone of a crime.
• Preponderance of the evidence: The burden of proof is much lower in civil cases. The plaintiff has to prove that the defendant is more likely than not (51% or greater) responsible for the harm caused.This is known as the preponderance of the evidence standard. It doesn’t require the same level of certainty as a criminal case, and it allows for financial compensation to be awarded even if the defendant wasn’t convicted in a criminal trial.This difference means that someone can be found liable for damages in a civil case even if they are not convicted of a crime in a criminal court. This allows victims to seek justice and compensation for their losses even if the criminal justice system does not impose serious penalties.

What Can I Be Compensated for?

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Dallas, there are several types of compensation you may be entitled to. Economic damages include lost wages, medical expenses, and property damage, which can be calculated based on bills, receipts, and other documentation.

These damages cover tangible financial losses, allowing you to recover the costs associated with your accident and begin the healing process. Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship, aim to compensate for the intangible impact of the injury. These damages are more subjective but reflect the emotional and physical toll the accident has taken on your life.

If the at-fault driver’s actions were particularly egregious, you could be entitled to punitive damages. These are intended to punish the responsible party and deter future misconduct. Punitive damages serve as a deterrent to others, ensuring that negligent behavior is appropriately addressed. The amount of compensation you can receive depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the details of the case.

Why Legal Representation Is Key?

Legal representation is essential in car accident cases to ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation. A skilled attorney has the experience to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. They can also ensure that you do not miss critical deadlines, such as the statute of limitations for filing your claim.

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and without proper legal representation, you may risk accepting a settlement that doesn’t fully cover your losses.

If your case goes to court, having a lawyer by your side increases the likelihood of success. They can handle important aspects of your case, which can allow you to focus on recovery. With experienced legal counsel, you can confidently pursue the compensation you need and hold the responsible party accountable for their actions.

Dallas Drunk Driving Accident FAQs

Q: What Is the Average Settlement for a Drunk Driving Accident in Dallas?

A: Settlements for drunk driving accidents in Dallas vary widely, depending on several factors, including lost wages, medical expenses, injury severity, and emotional distress. Accidents involving serious injuries or wrongful death often result in higher compensation.

Punitive damages may be awarded to punish the drunk driver for reckless behavior, significantly increasing the settlement. Each case is unique and evaluated based on its specific circumstances and damages.

Q: How Much Does a Lawyer Get From a Car Accident Settlement in Dallas?

A: In Dallas, lawyers handling car accident cases typically work on a contingency fee basis, taking a percentage of the settlement or court award. This percentage varies depending on the case complexity and whether it proceeds to trial. The contingency fee arrangement allows clients to pursue claims without upfront costs, with legal fees deducted only after compensation is successfully recovered.

Q: Can I Take Legal Action Against a Drunk Driver for a Totaled Car?

A: Yes, you can pursue damages against a drunk driver for totaling your car. Compensation may include the cost of vehicle replacement, repair expenses, and other related damages. In drunk driving cases, victims may also recover additional compensation, such as punitive damages, designed to penalize the at-fault driver’s reckless actions. Insurance policies often play a key role in covering these losses.

Q: What Is the Average Settlement for a Drunk Driving Accident in Dallas?

A: Settlements for drunk driving accidents in Dallas depend on factors such as the injury severity, lost wages, and medical expenses. Serious injuries or wrongful death often result in higher compensation. Punitive damages may also be awarded to punish reckless behavior, increasing the settlement. Each case is unique and evaluated based on the specific damages and circumstances.

Q: What Happens If You Get in an Accident While Drunk in Dallas?

A: If you cause an accident while drunk in Dallas, TX, you may face severe consequences, including criminal charges, license suspension, and increased insurance premiums. Additionally, you may be held financially liable for damages, including medical expenses, property damage, and emotional distress suffered by others involved. Repeat offenses or accidents involving serious injuries or fatalities can lead to harsher penalties, including significant jail time.

Schedule Your Merritt & Merritt Law Firm Consultation Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, take the first step toward securing the compensation you need by scheduling a consultation with Merritt & Merritt Law Firm. Our experienced team of attorneys is here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights. We understand the devastation that follows a drunk driving accident because we have helped many former clients secure compensation following these types of tragic collisions.

With over 45 years of experience, we provide compassionate, client-focused representation and are available to meet at your convenience. Contact our office today to discuss your case, understand your options, and begin the journey toward justice and recovery.