When people get behind the wheel of a car under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they are not just putting their own life at risk, but the lives of anyone else on the road at risk. Despite all the warnings about driving under the influence, people continue to engage in this dangerous practice.
On average, one person is killed every 50 minutes as the result of an automobile accident involving DWI. Even those who are fortunate enough to survive a car crash caused by DWI will likely suffer from serious bodily injuries.
DWI lawyer Luke Dow fights to help accident victims receive the compensation they are due after suffering from injuries in a DWI crash. Anyone suffering injuries in DWI cases should work with our Austin, TX law practice to hold the liable party responsible for the damages and injuries they caused.
Head and Brain Injuries
Head and brain injuries are very common in DWI cases. Drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol often fail to respond or take any necessary actions to avoid a car crash. They also tend to make reckless choices, such as driving in the wrong direction of traffic. These actions can result in high-impact car crashes that cause severe injuries.
Head and brain injuries may include lacerations, concussions, internal bleeding, and traumatic brain injuries. The severity of these conditions varies, and they can have a big impact on a person’s cognitive and emotional functions. The consequences of a head or brain injury could be long-term, or even lifelong.
Neck and Back Injuries
Other serious injuries that may be caused by a DWI accident include neck and back injuries. Like head and brain injuries, neck and back injuries can seriously impact a person’s quality of life.
The neck and back contain the spinal cord, which communicates with the brain and sends signals to the nerves throughout the body. A traumatic neck or back injury could cause full or partial paralysis, which may be temporary or permanent. These injuries are difficult to treat and often require long-term medical care.
Broken Bones
Even if an automobile accident takes place at relatively low speeds, the body is probably going to absorb quite a big impact. It is not unusual for people to suffer from broken bones as the result of a DWI crash. Bones that are commonly broken in an automobile accident include the arms, collarbone, legs, and hips.
While some broken bones can be set with a cast so that they heal on their own, others will require surgical treatment. A broken bone often involves a long recovery, and it can interfere with a person’s physical abilities, and even their ability to work, while they heal.
Soft Tissue Injuries
During a car crash, the body tends to move forcibly, and in ways that are not necessarily natural. Even if no major bones or organs are damaged, soft tissue injuries can occur.
Soft tissues include the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the body. Although soft tissue injuries may not sound severe, they can cause significant pain and discomfort, and can take a long time to fully heal. Common examples of soft tissue injuries include whiplash, knee sprains, and lower back sprains.
Contact Us
DWI accident injuries can cause physical pain, emotional stress, and financial losses. If you have been injured in a DWI accident, it is important to file a personal injury lawsuit so that the accountable party can be held liable for damages. Contact us at your earliest convenience to set up a personal consultation to discuss the details of your case with experienced attorney Luke Dow.