Hurst DWI Accident Injury Lawyer

When a drunk driver causes an accident, the people directly harmed in the collision deserve to be made whole for their damages. By filing a personal injury claim against the impaired driver, victims can recover payment for their medical bills, job-related losses, and the pain and suffering they experienced. If you need help taking legal action, consider working with a Hurst, Texas DWI accident injury attorney today.

With over 30 years of legal experience, Jerry D. Andrews, P.C. is ready to provide you with strong counsel and representation after a crash. Attorney Jerry Andrews has a history of successful case results in car accident claims, so you can trust him to help you seek full payment for your damages. Additionally, as a Board Certified Personal Injury Trial attorney, he is prepared to take your case to court if needed.

Is a Criminal DWI Case Separate From a DWI Accident Claim?

A criminal DWI case and a DWI accident claim are two separate legal matters, even when they arise from the same collision. The criminal case is brought by the state against the drunk driver. Its purpose is to punish the offense through penalties such as jail time, fines, and license suspension. The injured person is a witness in that case but does not control it.

A DWI accident claim is a civil case that belongs to you. Its purpose is to recover money for the harm you suffered. This difference means your claim can move forward even if the driver is found not guilty or the charges are reduced. A conviction or guilty plea, however, can serve as strong support for your civil case.

What Kinds of Damages Can You Be Paid for in a Drunk Driving Accident Claim?

Damages in a drunk driving accident claim can include both the financial costs of your injuries and the personal toll they take on your life. Hospital care, follow-up treatment, therapy, and medication often make up a large part of the claim. Lost wages and reduced future earning ability may also be included, along with repair or replacement costs for your vehicle.

Damages without a price tag can be recovered as well. Physical pain, mental anguish, permanent scarring, and physical impairment are all part of what a drunk driver may owe.

Drunk driving cases also stand apart from many other injury claims in one important way. Choosing to drive while intoxicated can support a claim for punitive damages, which are meant to punish the driver rather than repay any specific loss. Texas generally caps these damages, but the cap may not apply when the driver's conduct amounts to certain felonies, such as intoxication assault or intoxication manslaughter.