Trusted El Paso Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys

Car accidents in El Paso can result in a wide range of injuries, varying from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries include:

Head and Neck Injuries

These can range from whiplash to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI), potentially causing long-term cognitive issues.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, dramatically altering a person’s quality of life.

Broken Bones

The force of impact in car accidents often leads to fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.

Soft Tissue Injuries

In addition to broken bones, soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and contusions, can cause significant pain and limit mobility, making everyday tasks challenging.

Burns

In severe accidents, especially those involving fire or explosions, victims may suffer from first to third-degree burns.

Chest Injuries

The impact of a crash can cause chest trauma, potentially damaging internal organs or causing broken ribs.

Psychological Injuries

Many accident victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression following a crash.

Cuts and Lacerations

Broken glass and twisted metal can cause severe cuts, potentially leading to significant blood loss or scarring.

If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident in El Paso, taking the right steps immediately after the incident can protect your health and legal rights. Here’s what you should do:

1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

First and foremost, your health is the top priority. Consequently, check yourself and others for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, get medical treatment immediately. Subsequently, document all medical visits and treatments.

2. Report the Accident

Next, call the El Paso Police Department to report the accident. Furthermore, ensure an official report is filed, as this will be crucial for your claim.

3. Document Evidence

Additionally, if it’s safe to do so, take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Moreover, collect contact information from witnesses and other involved parties.

4. Be Cautious with Insurance Companies

In most car accident cases, the other driver’s insurance company will handle the claim on their insured driver’s behalf. However, insurance companies spend millions on TV ads telling you they are “on your side,” are a “good neighbor,” or that you’ll “be in good hands” with them. Nevertheless, when negotiating with car insurance companies after an accident, none of this is true. Remember, insurance companies prioritize their profits. As a result, they may try to:

• Deny your claim outright
• Offer a quick, low settlement
• Manipulate your statements
• Question the severity of your injuries

Therefore, avoid giving detailed statements or accepting early settlement offers without legal advice.

5. Contact Trusted El Paso Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys

After taking care of immediate health and safety concerns, it’s crucial to consult with experienced attorneys. Trusted El Paso Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys can:

• Conduct a thorough investigation of your accident
• Collect and analyze evidence, including police reports and medical records
• Handle all communications with insurance companies
• Ensure you receive proper medical treatment
• Fight for fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages

These attorneys understand El Paso’s traffic laws and insurance practices. Thus, they’re available to discuss your case and provide the guidance you need during this difficult time.

6. Keep Records

Furthermore, maintain a file with all accident-related documents, including:

• Medical bills and records
• Correspondence with insurance companies
• Photos of injuries and property damage
• Records of missed work and lost wages

Lastly, adhere to your doctor’s recommendations and attend all follow-up appointments. This is crucial for your health and strengthens your claim. In conclusion, remember that the steps you take immediately after an accident can significantly impact your physical recovery and the outcome of any potential legal claim. At Glasheen, Valles & Inderman Injury Lawyers, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.

El Paso Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys understand the complexities of these cases. Here’s how claims against drunk drivers typically work in El Paso:

Establishing Negligence

Driving under the influence of alcohol is considered an extreme form of negligence in El Paso. Victims who suffer injuries or families who lose loved ones due to a drunk driver can hold that driver accountable for their actions, much like cases involving other forms of reckless driving such as speeding or distracted driving.

Criminal Charges and Civil Claims

In El Paso, drunk driving accidents often result in the at-fault driver facing serious criminal charges, including Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). This criminal case can influence the civil claims for compensation by those injured or killed in the accident. Texas has strict laws when it comes to DUI/DWI, and those found guilty can face substantial fines, license suspensions, or even jail time.

Strategic Timing of Claims

El Paso Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys work closely with clients to make informed decisions about when to file claims. While drunk driving accident injury lawsuits can proceed concurrently with criminal prosecutions, in some cases, it may be more beneficial to wait until the criminal case concludes to better assess the potential for a favorable outcome.

Leveraging Criminal Convictions

Moreover, if the driver is convicted of DWI in criminal court, this conviction can play a crucial role in strengthening the civil case for damages. The criminal conviction establishes that the driver’s actions were negligent and dangerous, making it easier to prove liability in the civil lawsuit.

Expertise of Local Attorneys

El Paso Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys possess a deep understanding of Texas traffic laws and local court procedures. They are skilled in navigating the interplay between criminal and civil proceedings, ensuring that victims or their families get the compensation they deserve.

Drunk Driving Statistics in El Paso

Drunk driving continues to be a major issue in El Paso. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), over 3,000 DWI-related crashes occurred in El Paso County in the past year alone. Of those, more than 200 resulted in serious injuries, and approximately 50 fatalities were linked to drunk driving accidents. These statistics highlight the severe impact of drunk driving in the region and the importance of holding responsible parties accountable.

At Glasheen, Valles & Inderman Injury Lawyers, our experienced El Paso drunk driving accident attorneys play a crucial role in these cases:

Case Evaluation

First and foremost, GVILAW attorneys assess the strength of your case, considering all evidence and potential outcomes. We provide an objective analysis of your situation, helping you understand your legal options.

Investigation

Next, the GVILAW team conducts thorough investigations, gathering police reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage. We leave no stone unturned in building a strong case for our clients.

Coordination with Criminal Proceedings

Furthermore, we actively monitor the progress of any criminal case against the drunk driver, using developments to strengthen your civil claim. This coordination ensures that all legal avenues are leveraged effectively.

Negotiation

Our skilled attorneys negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation. We understand the tactics used by insurers and counter them effectively.

Litigation

If a fair settlement can’t be reached, Glasheen, Valles & Inderman is prepared to take your case to court. We have the experience and resources to represent you effectively in trial proceedings.

Damages Calculation

Additionally, we help quantify all damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potential punitive damages. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of your loss are accounted for.

Legal Expertise

The El Paso drunk driving accident attorneys of GVILAW are well-versed in Texas’ DUI laws and how they intersect with personal injury claims. Our specialized knowledge is invaluable in navigating these complex cases. By working with Glasheen, Valles & Inderman Injury Lawyers, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the complex legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. Our team’s experience and dedication to our clients make us the trusted choice for drunk driving accident cases in El Paso.