Motorcycle accidents involving a drunk driver are usually serious and sadly, often end in fatalities. When a driver is under the influence of alcohol, the driver’s cognitive functions required to properly operate a vehicle are severely hampered. Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal in all 50 states.
Even with harsh punishment and fines, Texas drunk driving accidents unfortunately still occur. If you have been affected by the negligence of a drunk driver when riding, be smart and speak to a Corpus Christi drunk driving injury accident lawyer at The Patel Firm PLLC.
While the fines and repercussions serve as a deterrent for some, the ones following the rules are often the most injured in drunk driving accidents. A minimum insurance policy in Texas will not be enough to adequately cover the expenses, damages, injuries, and losses resulting from serious motorcycle accidents. Thus, we advise motorcycle riders to purchase underinsured motorist coverage to help cover costs that would otherwise be left outstanding in the instance of a motorcycle accident with a driver who carries a minimum policy. Speaking to a Corpus Christi accident attorney can help you make a determination of which insurance policies will be most beneficial to you.
In terms of holding a drunk driver responsible for negligently causing a Texas auto accident, the victim has the option of filing a civil suit. A civil suit will hold the drunk driver responsible to financially compensate the injured victim of the Texas drunk driving accident for their damages as well as pain and suffering.
Criminal Liabilities
A driver can be criminally charged for driving a vehicle if their blood alcohol level content is more than 0.08% in Texas, lower in other states. The offense becomes more serious if the drunk driver causes an accident while driving. If convicted, the driver faces criminal charges for violating traffic law and for failing to ensure the safety of other drivers on the road. However, it is worth noting that criminal punishment is not adequate to cover all damages and losses to the victim involved in the accident and is usually followed by a civil lawsuit.
Civil Liabilities
Evidence gathered in a criminal case against a drunk driver can be used to substantiate your claim in a civil lawsuit against the drunk driver. Evidence can include a breathalyzer report, blood test report, officers crash scene report, eyewitness reports, and even surveillance videos from bars. All these can prove that the drunk driver was negligent and failed to ensure the safety of other road users.
In order for victims to be adequately compensated for their injuries, it is vital that victims of drunk driving accidents file a civil suit against the drunk driver. Most Corpus Christi accident attorneys can work a civil case for you, but it is important to choose a Corpus Christi personal injury lawyer who focuses their practice on working accidents involving vehicles, motorcycles, and 18 wheelers, and more importantly a Corpus Christi accident lawyer, you can trust.
During the immediate aftermath of a motorcycle accident in Corpus Christi involving a drunk driver, we recommend doing the following to protect your rights:
- Call the police
- Be sure a crash report is taken
- If you believe the driver is under the influence, inform the police officer
- Exchange insurance and contact information
- Gather relevant evidence
- Take photos
- Contact a Corpus Christi personal injury lawyer at The Patel Firm PLLC
Contact an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Corpus Christi Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in Corpus Christi or anywhere else in Texas, don’t hesitate to call a personal injury attorney in Corpus Christi at The Patel Firm PLLC. Our lawyers are ready and able to fight for you. We will work to gather all available evidence and fight for you to get maximum compensation for your injuries and damages. From the moment you call our office for representation, we guarantee we will work hard and efficiently to get you to the outcome you deserve. Speak to a Corpus Christi motorcycle accident attorney today to discuss your options. You can call or email the firm at any time. 24/7/365, someone at The Patel Firm PLLC is ready and waiting to speak with you. Contact us today by calling us at (361) 400-2036.
*This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to, and should not be construed as legal advice.
