Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense that puts lives at risk every day. In Waco, Texas, DWI accidents are a leading cause of severe injuries and fatalities on the road. If you or a loved one has been injured in a DWI-related crash, you need an experienced legal team to fight for your rights. At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, our Waco-based personal injury attorneys are dedicated to holding drunk drivers accountable and securing maximum compensation for victims.

The Dangers of DWI Accidents in Waco

Waco’s highways, including I-35 and local roads like Valley Mills Drive and Franklin Avenue, see heavy traffic daily. Unfortunately, drunk drivers make these roads even more dangerous. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), alcohol-related crashes account for a significant portion of traffic fatalities in McLennan County.

DWI accidents often result in:

• Catastrophic injuries (traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones)
• Permanent disabilities (paralysis, loss of limb function)
• Emotional trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
• Wrongful death (leaving families devastated)

When a drunk driver causes a crash, they should be held responsible for their reckless actions. Our firm aggressively pursues justice for victims and their families.

Texas DWI Laws and Liability

Texas has strict DWI laws to deter drunk driving, including:

• Legal Limit: A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is illegal for most drivers (0.04% for commercial drivers, zero tolerance for under 21).
• Enhanced Penalties: A BAC of 0.15% or higher leads to harsher fines and jail time.
• Open Container Laws: Having an open alcohol container in a vehicle is illegal.

In addition to criminal charges, drunk drivers can face civil liability for injuries and damages they cause. Victims have the right to pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit or wrongful death claim.

How Scanes Yelverton Talbert Can Help

If you’ve been hurt in a Waco DWI accident, our attorneys will:

1. Investigate the Crash Thoroughly

We gather critical evidence, including:

• Police reports and DWI arrest records
• Witness statements
• Surveillance footage
• BAC test results
• Accident reconstruction analysis

2. Identify All Liable Parties

While the drunk driver is primarily responsible, other parties may share liability, such as:

• Bars or restaurants that over-served alcohol (under Texas dram shop laws)
• Employers if the driver was on the job
• Vehicle manufacturers, if a defect contributed to the crash

3. Fight for Maximum Compensation

DWI accident victims may be eligible to recover damages for:

• Medical bills (emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation)
• Lost wages (present and future income loss)
• Pain and suffering (physical and emotional distress)
• Property damage (vehicle repairs or replacement)
• Punitive damages (in cases of extreme negligence)

4. Handle Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts. We negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive a fair settlement. If necessary, we’re prepared to take your case to trial.

What to Do After a DWI Accident in Waco

If you’re involved in a crash with a drunk driver:

1. Call 911 – Ensure police and medical help arrive.
2. Seek medical attention – Some injuries aren’t immediately apparent, it is best practice to get checked on to prevent any future damage.
3. Document the scene – If possible, you should take photos and collect witness info.
4. Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters – Let your attorney handle communications.
5. Contact Scanes Yelverton Talbert – We’ll protect your rights.

Contact Us Today for a Free Case Review

At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, we combine experience with a client-focused approach. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll of DWI accidents, and we fight tirelessly to secure justice for our clients.

If a drunk driver has injured you or a loved one in Waco, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.

Call Scanes Yelverton Talbert today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you recover the compensation you deserve.