On November 11, 2017, a horrific multi-car accident in the 9400 block of Research Boulevard in North Austin led to two deaths and three critical injuries. The accident occurred when a black Jeep traveling north crossed to the other side of the road, smashing through the cable barriers separating the lanes. It collided with a white Fiat and then a white BMW. Both passengers in the Fiat, a woman in her 30s and her 14-year-old son, were killed. A man in his 40s and a girl in the Fiat were critically injured. The driver of the Jeep was also critically injured; the driver of the BMW was not seriously injured.
The family in the Fiat is from Southern California and was visiting Austin on vacation. At the time of the accident, they were on their way to the airport to return home.
On November 13, it was reported that the 41-year-old Jeep driver was jailed with two counts of intoxication manslaughter. A blood draw determined that he had a Blood Alcohol Concentration of .203, more than twice the legal limit.
What Do I Do If I Lose a Loved One in a Drunk Driving Accident?
The most tragic thing about DWI accidents is that they are 100 percent preventable. Though laws are in place to deter drivers from driving under the influence, a shocking number still commit this dangerous crime.
If you lose a loved one in a drunk driving accident, you could have a wrongful death claim against the perpetrator. While the police will pursue criminal charges against the perpetrator, any wrongful death claim you pursue is a separate civil claim. Our law firm is experienced in helping the loved ones of drunk driving victims seek the damages they deserve for pain and suffering, lost wages, medical expenses, funeral expenses and more.
