San Antonio Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Despite the many well-known dangers associated with drunk driving, many individuals still get behind the wheel of their vehicle after having too much to drink. Unfortunately, this is a recipe for disaster, as drunk driving accidents frequently lead to debilitating and sometimes fatal injuries.
If you or someone you love sustained injuries in a drunk driving collision, contact Ryan Orsatti Law right away. We can immediately investigate your accident, file a personal injury claim with the drunk driver’s insurance company, and pursue the settlement or litigation compensation you need.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced San Antonio drunk driving accident attorney, please call us at (210) 525-1200 or contact us online right away.
San Antonio Drunk Driving Accident Guide
Why Should OUR San Antonio Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Represent You?
Injuries in drunk driving collisions are often severe and may lead to lifelong complications.
At Ryan Orsatti Law, local attorney Ryan Orsatti will work with you directly throughout your drunk driving accident case, aggressively negotiate with insurance company adjusters on your behalf, and if necessary, litigate your case to a successful resolution in the state court system.
We have a strong track record of success, both with settling and litigating personal injury cases, and you can view our most recent case results and client testimonials at the following links.
Our office is conveniently located at 4634 De Zavala Road, San Antonio, Texas 78249.
How Much Is a San Antonio Drunk Driving Accident Case Worth?
The amount of compensation you can recover for a drunk driving accident in San Antonio will depend on the nature and extent of your injuries, the extent of your property damage, and the overall effect the accident has had on your life and well-being.
In Texas, drunk driving accident victims can pursue both economic and non-economic damages, which can cover a wide range of losses.
Economic Damages
Economic damages refer to the tangible financial losses you experience because of the accident.
These damages are easier to calculate and may include:
- Medical Expenses – This includes hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical treatment you may need, including physical therapy or long-term care.
- Lost income – If your injuries prevent you from working, temporarily or permanently, you can recover compensation for your lost income. You may also recover future lost earnings if you cannot return to your job or if your earning potential decreases due to your injuries.
- Property Damage – You may recover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more subjective and compensate for the emotional and psychological effect of the accident on your life.
These damages may include:
- Pain and Suffering – You can receive compensation for the physical pain and discomfort you experienced due to the accident.
- Emotional Distress – If the accident has caused you significant mental anguish, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you can also recover damages for your emotional suffering.
- Loss of Life Enjoyment – If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed, you may recover compensation for this loss.
In some cases, you may also recover punitive damages if the drunk driver’s actions were especially reckless or egregious. Punitive damages punish the at-fault driver and deter similar wrongful conduct.
Where Do Drunk Driving Accidents Frequently Occur in San Antonio?
Drunk driving accidents in San Antonio, Texas, tend to happen in certain areas where traffic is heavier, where nightlife is prominent, or where there are high-speed roadways.
These areas often see more impaired drivers – particularly during late-night hours and weekends when alcohol consumption is more common.
- Downtown San Antonio – The downtown area is one of the most common places where drunk driving accidents occur. This part of the city is home to numerous bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a nightlife hotspot. With heavy pedestrian traffic and congested streets, impaired drivers pose a significant risk in this area, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. The area around the River Walk, for example, is particularly prone to these types of accidents, given the high concentration of bars and tourists.
- Major Highways and Intersections – High-speed roadways are another common location for drunk driving accidents in San Antonio. Major highways such as Interstate 10 (I-10), Interstate 35 (I-35), and Loop 1604 are frequently the scene of accidents involving impaired drivers. Large numbers of commuters use these highways, and high speeds combined with driver impairment can lead to serious accidents. Drunk drivers are more likely in these particularly dangerous interchanges where these highways intersect, such as the I-35/I-10 interchange, especially late at night.
- Suburban Areas and Residential Streets – While downtown and highways see a lot of drunk driving accidents, suburban areas in San Antonio also experience their fair share. In these areas, drunk drivers may return home from nights out at bars and restaurants, and narrow streets or unfamiliar routes can increase the likelihood of accidents.
- Special Event Areas – San Antonio also hosts many special events and festivals, such as Fiesta and the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, which draw large crowds. During these times, drunk driving accidents can spike, especially near the event venues and surrounding roads.
Common Types of San Antonio Drunk Driving Accidents
In San Antonio, drunk driving remains a significant issue, contributing to a range of dangerous accidents. Impaired drivers often exhibit slower reaction times, poor judgment, and difficulty focusing, all of which increase the likelihood of accidents.
Here are some of the most common accidents that drunk drivers tend to cause in San Antonio:
- Rear-End Collisions – One of the most frequent accidents resulting from drunk drivers is rear-end collisions. Impaired drivers often fail to notice when vehicles in front of them have slowed down or stopped, particularly at intersections or traffic lights. A driver under the influence may react too late, slamming into the back of another vehicle. These types of collisions can result in serious injuries, especially when they occur at high speeds on major roads like Loop 410 or I-35.
- Head-On Collisions – Head-on collisions are among the most severe types of accidents due to drunk driving. An impaired driver may drift across lanes or enter oncoming traffic, especially on two-lane roads or highways. This type of accident is especially dangerous because the impact force is often doubled when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide. Roads like Highway 281 or FM 78, which have stretches with no barriers between opposing traffic lanes, are particularly prone to these accidents.
- T-Bone or Side-Impact Collisions – Drunk drivers also frequently cause T-bone or side-impact collisions, especially at intersections. These occur when a driver runs a red light or stop sign and strikes another vehicle at a right angle, hitting the side of the car. Impaired drivers who fail to stop or yield the right-of-way at intersections in San Antonio, like those along Culebra Road or Bandera Road, can injure drivers or pedestrians.
- Wrong-Way Accidents – Another serious collision type that results from drunk drivers is wrong-way-driving accidents. Drivers under the influence may mistakenly enter highways like I-10 or I-37 going in the wrong direction, putting everyone on the road at serious risk.
Most Common Injuries in San Antonio Drunk Driving Crashes
Victims of drunk driving accidents in San Antonio often experience a range of serious injuries due to the violent nature of these accidents. Impaired drivers tend to cause high-speed collisions that can result in significant harm.
Here are some of the most common types of injuries that accident victims may suffer:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) – One of the most severe injuries that victims can suffer is a traumatic brain injury. TBIs may occur when a victim’s head strikes an object inside the vehicle, such as the steering wheel or windshield, during a collision. These injuries can lead to long-term cognitive impairment, memory loss, and physical disabilities.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Spinal cord injuries are another common outcome of drunk driving accidents. These injuries can result from the force of impact, leading to partial or complete paralysis. Depending on the location of the injury, victims may face challenges with mobility and may require extensive rehabilitation or assistive devices to regain independence.
- Broken Bones – Fractures and broken bones are common in drunk driving crashes due to the sudden impact. Victims may suffer from broken arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones, which can cause significant pain and may require surgical intervention, physical therapy, and a long recovery period.
- Soft Tissue Injuries – Soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains, and bruises, are common as well. While they may not seem as severe as fractures or TBIs, they can still lead to chronic pain and long-term physical therapy.
- Emotional and Psychological Injuries – Beyond physical injuries, victims of drunk driving accidents may experience emotional and psychological trauma. Many victims suffer from anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of the crash and its aftermath.
Fighting the Insurance Company in a San Antonio Drunk Driving Accident Case
Insurance companies make recovering compensation after a drunk driving accident in San Antonio a challenging process. A skilled personal injury attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
At Ryan Orsatti Law, here’s how we can help you in this difficult situation.
- Investigating the Accident – Our first step is to conduct a thorough investigation of the accident. We will gather evidence, such as police reports, eyewitness statements, and medical records, to establish the drunk driver’s liability. This evidence can build a strong case against the at-fault party and their insurance provider.
- Negotiating with the Insurance Company – Insurance companies often aim to minimize their payouts, offering low settlements or denying claims altogether. We will handle all communications and negotiations with the insurance adjusters on your behalf. Our experience allows us to counter any tactics the insurance company may use to undermine your claim, ensuring they do not pressure you into accepting a settlement below what you truly deserve.
- Calculating Fair Compensation – We will assess the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and any future costs related to your injuries. By accurately calculating your total losses, we can demand a fair settlement that reflects the true effect of the accident on your life.
- Litigation Support – If ongoing negotiations fail to yield a satisfactory settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our legal team will represent you during trial, presenting evidence and advocating for your rights in front of a judge and jury.
With our dedicated support, you can focus on your recovery while we fight for the compensation you deserve after a drunk driving accident in San Antonio.
Steps to Take after a San Antonio Drunk Driving Collision
After a drunk driving crash in San Antonio, to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve:
- Obtain a Copy of the Police Report – After the accident, obtain a copy of the police report for your records. This document will provide valuable information about the accident, including details about the involved parties, witness statements, and any citations issued to the drunk driver.
- Gather Documentation – Collect and retain all relevant documentation related to your accident. This includes medical records, bills, photographs of the accident scene, and any correspondence with insurance companies. This evidence will support your case when seeking compensation.
- Complete Your Medical Treatment – Prioritize your health by finishing all recommended medical treatment. This not only aids in your recovery but also establishes a clear link between your injuries and the accident. Documenting your medical progress will strengthen your claim.
- Speak with a Knowledgeable San Antonio Drunk Driving Accident Attorney – At Ryan Orsatti Law, we can negotiate with insurance companies and advocate for your rights. An experienced drunk driving accident attorney’s support can secure the compensation you need for your accident-related injuries and damages.
Contact a Skilled San Antonio Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Right Away
At Ryan Orsatti Law, we welcome the opportunity to aggressively advocate for your interests in a drunk driving accident claim or lawsuit and maximize the compensation you recover for your losses.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled San Antonio drunk driving accident lawyer, please call us at (210) 525-1200 or contact us online today.
Ryan Orsatti Law – San Antonio Office
Address: 4634 De Zavala Rd
San Antonio, TX 78249
P: (210) 525-1200
Client Testimonial
“Ryan Orsatti and his team were valuable in handling my case. Mr. Orsatti worked every angle to ensure a settlement that ended in my favor. Too, he and his team respected my time and availability throughout the settlement process and required little of me. In doing so, I was able to fully focus on my recovery without the emotional drain and stress. I would not hesitate to recommend the law firm to any one person.” -Chela L. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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