A crash that causes serious injury can lead to an intoxication assault investigation in Texas. Although DUI is a common search term, Texas generally uses DWI for impaired-driving cases. When prosecutors believe intoxication caused another person’s serious bodily injury, the matter can become a felony case.
Richardson lies in both Dallas County and Collin County, so the location of the crash can determine where the case proceeds. Police may investigate the collision while gathering evidence related to intoxication. A DUI attorney in Richardson can examine how those parts of the case fit together and whether the evidence supports the charge being considered.
Determining What Caused The Crash
A serious injury does not by itself prove intoxication assault. Prosecutors must show that the alleged intoxication caused the injury. That issue can become complicated when the collision involved other drivers, poor roadway conditions, or a sudden mechanical problem.
An attorney may study the crash report and compare it with photographs, video, and witness accounts. The purpose is to determine whether the explanation matches the evidence. If another event caused the collision or played a major role in the injury, that issue may affect how the case is charged or defended.
Reviewing Blood Test Evidence
Blood testing often receives close attention after a serious crash. The attorney can review whether police had lawful authority to obtain the sample and whether proper procedures were followed. Problems during collection or testing may affect how much weight the result should receive.
The time of the blood draw also matters. A sample collected later may not show the exact condition of the person while driving. Prosecutors may use expert testimony to estimate an earlier alcohol concentration, but those estimates depend on assumptions about timing and alcohol absorption. An attorney can examine whether those assumptions are supported by the facts.
Evaluating The Injury Evidence
Texas law uses a specific definition of serious bodily injury. The injury must involve consequences such as a substantial risk of death, serious permanent disfigurement, or prolonged loss or impairment of a bodily function.
Medical records may help establish whether that standard is met. An attorney can compare the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery period with the legal requirements. When the records are unclear, further medical review may be necessary before accepting the prosecution’s description of the injury.
The Medlin Law Firm
2550 Pacific Ave #866
Dallas, TX 75226
(214) 888-4810
Preparing For Court
A DUI attorney in Richardson can identify weaknesses in the evidence and explain the legal options available. The attorney may challenge unreliable testing, question the claimed cause of the crash, or dispute whether the injury meets the statutory definition. No accusation establishes guilt. Prosecutors must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
