Drunk Driver Accident Lawyer in Carrollton: What to Do If You’ve Been Hit

Every day, lives are shattered by the reckless decision to drive under the influence. If you or a loved one has been hit by a drunk driver in Carrollton or anywhere in Texas, you’re likely facing pain, confusion, and anger—along with pressing medical bills and a disrupted life.

This guide breaks down exactly what you need to do after a drunk driving accident and how a Carrollton drunk driver accident lawyer can help you pursue maximum compensation and justice.

The Devastating Impact of Drunk Driving in Texas

Drunk driving remains a leading cause of preventable traffic deaths in Texas. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, alcohol-related crashes killed 1,162 people in 2022 alone—making Texas one of the most dangerous states for impaired driving.

Carrollton, situated in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, is not immune to this epidemic. Despite increased public awareness and stricter laws, impaired drivers continue to put innocent lives at risk every single day.

When the unthinkable happens, and you're hit by a drunk driver, the path forward can be overwhelming. That’s why having the right legal guidance is critical.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident

The moments after a crash are chaotic—but they matter. Your actions can impact both your safety and your legal case. Here’s what to do:

1. Call 911 Immediately

Always report the crash. Ask for both police and EMS to come to the scene. Let the dispatcher know you suspect the other driver is impaired.

2. Prioritize Medical Attention

Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked out. Many accident-related injuries (like concussions, whiplash, and internal bleeding) worsen over time. Medical records also form key evidence in your injury claim.

3. Do Not Engage With the Drunk Driver

Avoid confrontations. Intoxicated drivers may be erratic or aggressive. Let law enforcement handle them.

4. Document the Scene

If you're able, gather:

• Photos of vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, and surroundings

• Witness contact information

• Any signs of alcohol use (bottles, slurred speech, etc.)

5. Give a Clear Statement to Police

Tell the officer exactly what happened. Be honest and accurate. The police report may include crucial details about the other driver’s sobriety, field sobriety test results, or arrest.

6. Speak to a Personal Injury Lawyer Right Away

Before you talk to the drunk driver’s insurance company, talk to a lawyer. Insurance adjusters may try to shift blame, downplay your injuries, or pressure you into settling for less than you deserve.

Why Drunk Driving Accident Cases Are Different

Unlike a typical car accident, cases involving a drunk driver involve criminal and civil elements. Here’s how it affects your personal injury case:

Criminal Charges vs. Civil Claims

• The state may pursue criminal DWI or DUI charges against the driver.

• You, as the victim, have the right to file a civil personal injury claim to seek financial compensation.

Even if the driver is convicted in criminal court, that doesn’t automatically result in compensation for you. That’s where your civil claim becomes critical.

Potential for Punitive Damages

In Texas, if the at-fault driver was intoxicated, your case may be eligible for punitive damages. These are designed to punish extreme recklessness and deter similar behavior.

Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving crashes are often high-impact and violent. Victims may suffer:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

• Broken bones or spinal cord damage

• Internal organ injuries

• Severe lacerations or burns

• Permanent disfigurement or scarring

• Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety)

These injuries may lead to long-term disability, emotional suffering, and significant loss of income or quality of life.

Can You Sue a Drunk Driver in Texas?

Yes. If you were hit by a drunk driver in Texas, you can pursue a civil lawsuit against that driver for:

• Medical expenses (current and future)

• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Property damage

• Punitive damages in qualifying cases

If the accident resulted in the death of a loved one, surviving family members may also file a wrongful death claim.

What If the Drunk Driver Was Uninsured?

Texas has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers. If the at-fault driver lacks insurance, or flees the scene (hit-and-run), you may still have options:

1. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage

If you carry UM/UIM coverage, your own policy may step in to cover damages.

2. Dram Shop Liability

In some cases, a bar, restaurant, or alcohol provider may be liable if they overserved the driver or served alcohol to a minor. This falls under Texas’s Dram Shop Act.

An experienced injury lawyer can investigate and identify all potentially liable parties.

How a Carrollton Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help

Carrollton Injury Law puts personal back into personal injury law. Our experienced team knows how to handle complex cases involving drunk drivers and works with a deep understanding of Texas DWI laws and insurance tactics.

Here’s what we do for you:

1. Thorough Investigation

We collect all evidence—police reports, video footage, medical records, and witness statements—to build a rock-solid case.

2. Handle Insurance Negotiations

You won’t have to deal with insurance adjusters. We handle all communication, ensuring your rights are protected and your claim is valued fairly.

3. Maximize the Compensation You Deserve

Our team fights for full compensation—not just for today’s bills, but for long-term impact, including emotional harm and reduced quality of life.

4. Pursue Justice and Accountability

In addition to recovering damages, we work to hold drunk drivers accountable—through both the civil system and by supporting victims’ rights throughout the legal process.

What Does It Cost to Hire a Drunk Driver Accident Lawyer?

We handle drunk driving accident cases on a contingency fee basis. That means:

• No upfront costs

• No hourly fees

• You only pay if we recover money for you

This allows you to focus on healing while we focus on getting results.

Real Support for Victims and Families

Being injured—or losing a loved one—because of a drunk driver’s choices is among the most devastating experiences someone can go through. The physical and emotional scars can last a lifetime.

You deserve more than just legal help. You deserve compassion, clarity, and a team that fights for your future with everything they’ve got.

Carrollton Injury Law: Local Advocacy That Makes a Difference

Based in Carrollton and serving clients throughout Texas, our firm understands the local roads, courts, and insurance dynamics that affect your case. We’ve helped clients across the state hold drunk drivers accountable and recover meaningful compensation for their suffering.

Whether your accident happened on I-35E, President George Bush Turnpike, or a neighborhood street, we’re ready to step in and help.

Don’t Wait—Texas Has Deadlines

Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code §16.003, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.

But the sooner you act, the stronger your case may be. Evidence fades. Witnesses forget. Insurance companies get to work right away—so should you.

Take the First Step Toward Justice

If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver in Carrollton, you shouldn’t have to fight alone.

At Carrollton Injury Law, we combine legal experience with real care for our clients. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing.

Contact us today to schedule a free injury claim evaluation and take the first step toward holding the drunk driver accountable and pursuing the full compensation you deserve.