If you have been involved in a collision in which you believe the other driver is intoxicated, you should immediately call law enforcement, seek medical attention, and document the scene. In Texas, drunk driving accidents can result in serious injuries and criminal charges, making early evidence collection and legal guidance important for protecting your right to recover compensation. The following blog explores what you should know about your legal options, including the importance of working with a San Angelo, Texas, drunk driving accident lawyer to help you explore your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve for the damages you’ve suffered.
What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Collision if I Think the Driver Is Intoxicated?
In the event you have reason to believe that a driver who caused a collision is intoxicated, it is critical to take the necessary steps to protect yourself. Generally, the first step is to call the police to report the accident. While on the phone with the operator, you should inform them of why you believe the driver is intoxicated, such as swerving in and out of lanes, driving erratically, slurred speech, or even the smell of alcohol present. In addition to informing the operator of your suspicions, you should also request medical services.
When the police arrive on the scene, they will begin a preliminary investigation into the collision, which includes speaking with both drivers. As such, if they believe the driver is under the influence, they will conduct a series of tests to determine if they are drunk. If the driver is under the influence, the police will place them into custody.
In the meantime, it is critical to seek medical attention, even if you feel okay. Unfortunately, some injuries may not immediately present themselves, and delaying care as a result can negatively impact the compensation you can recover, as the injured party may claim your injuries must not have been severe if they did not warrant immediate care.
Drunk driving collisions in San Angelo and throughout West Texas often occur on frequently traveled roads like Loop 306, Bryant Boulevard, and nearby rural highways, where speeding and impaired driving can increase the severity of a crash.
Quick Actions Following a Suspected Drunk Driving Crash in Texas
- Immediately call 911
- Inform the operator and police that you believe the other driver is intoxicated
- Request emergency medical assistance
- Seek medical care immediately, even if you feel okay or injuries seem minor
- Do not admit fault at the scene
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including damage to all vehicles involved, your visible injuries, and road conditions
- Do not argue with the other driver
- Preserve all medical records and repair costs
What Signs May Indicate the Other Driver Was Intoxicated?
Drivers who are intoxicated or under the influence of drugs or alcohol may display dangerous driving behaviors before and during the collision in San Angelo and throughout West Texas. While only law enforcement can officially determine intoxication through chemical testing, certain warning signs can support your beliefs and assist the police in investigating the collision.
Common Signs of Drunk or Impaired Driving
- Inability to maintain the lane
- Driving significantly below or above the speed limit
- Disobeying traffic signs
- Delayed braking
- Slurred speech
- Bloodshot eyes
- Smell of alcohol
- Difficulty standing or walking
- Aggressive behavior
- Open containers inside the vehicle
What Can I Do if the Driver Tries to Flee the Scene?
Unfortunately, a drunk driver responsible for a collision may attempt to flee the scene to avoid facing legal consequences and liability for their actions. If this occurs, it is critical to understand that you should not pursue them. While you may want to ensure you obtain justice, following them may only put yourself and others on the road at further risk. The driver may become even more erratic or dangerous, and you may have sustained injuries that make it unsafe for you to drive.
Instead, try to get as much information as possible about the vehicle and driver, and wait for the police to arrive on the scene.
In the meantime, you should speak with any witnesses who may have watched the collision occur, as they may be able to provide supplemental information about the vehicle or driver.
Information You Should Try to Document
- Vehicle make and model
- The vehicle color
- License plate number
- Which way the vehicle went
- Any visible damage to the vehicle
- A physical description of the driver
- Nearby businesses or surveillance cameras
Contact an Experienced San Angelo Personal Injury Attorney
If you have suffered injuries due to the negligent actions of an intoxicated driver in Texas, it is critical to connect with an experienced attorney with the Mathis Law Firm, PLLC. Our team understands how devastating a collision of this nature can be, which is why we will do everything possible to help guide you through these complicated times. Connect with us today to learn how we can fight for you.
