If a driver gets into a traffic accident and is also cited for being drunk, a lot of trouble lies ahead. Not only will the driver be charged for the accident, but they will also be arrested for driving drunk. Things can go downhill quickly from there, unless the driver gets a lawyer right away. The attorney will be able to help the arrested drunk driver pursue the best options for the case. There are DUI driving accident attorneys in Laredo, Texas who help clients who are arrested for DUIs. Here is vital information the client may be interested to know.
On a first offense, a driver arrested for DUI in an accident can face up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, and license suspension for up to a year. To make matters worse, if convicted, this first offense will not go off the defendant’s record, but will there as a prior offense always. This is because Texas does not observe what is called a “look-back” period. Another thing to keep in mind is that Texas does not allow for the defendant to plea to a lesser charge for the DUI.
The defendant should also realize that since an automobile accident was involved in the accident, there may also be a lawsuit filed for punitive damages against him or her. Texas is taking a very serious stance against accidents that occur due to drunk driving. In 2013, over 1,089 individuals lost their lives due to drunk driving accidents. Therefore, severe penalties are imposed at the criminal and civil level. The person who is involved as the defendant in one of these cases must be sure to hire an attorney who can help make the case better.
Martinez & Associates is a law firm that has been providing legal solutions for clients in Laredo, Texas and the surrounding areas for several years. If clients are in need of defense because of a DUI-related accident, the law firm is available. Other areas of representation include victims of animal bites and construction accidents. If any persons are in need of DUI driving accident attorneys in Laredo, Texas they can call upon the law firm.