Woman Charged in Fatal Southeast Austin DUI Crash 

A fatal crash shut down all northbound lanes of U.S. Highway 183 in Southeast Austin near the airport last Sunday morning, according to Fox 7. The collision occurred near McCall Lane shortly before 9:45 a.m., prompting a multi-hour closure as investigators and cleanup crews worked at the scene. At least one person was killed in the crash, though authorities have not released the victim’s identity or confirmed how many vehicles were involved. Austin police later confirmed that an adult female driver connected to the collision is now facing charges of intoxication manslaughter.

This tragic crash underscores the devastating consequences that can occur when impaired driving is suspected on busy Austin roadways. A fatal collision that results in the loss of life leaves families searching for answers while authorities work to determine what led to the crash and who should be held accountable. Incidents like this raise serious concerns about driver responsibility, roadway safety, and the dangers of intoxicated driving, particularly near high traffic areas such as airport corridors. At Baker Matthews Law, we understand how overwhelming fatal crash cases can be for families facing sudden loss and unanswered questions. If your family has been affected by a deadly DUI crash in Austin, call us today at  (512) 515-9862 for a free consultation. 

How a Dedicated Attorney Can Help After a Southeast Austin DUI Crash 

After a southeast Austin DUI crash, working with an experienced legal team like we have at Baker Matthews Law can make a critical difference for victims and grieving families. DUI-related crashes often involve complex investigations, criminal charges, and parallel civil claims, which can feel overwhelming during an already emotional time. Our attorneys can help review police reports, toxicology results, and crash evidence to determine how intoxication contributed to the collision. By building a strong civil case alongside the criminal process, legal counsel helps protect victims’ rights and ensures their interests remain a priority.

At Baker Matthews Law, our attorneys play an active role in guiding families through the legal and financial challenges that follow a fatal or serious DUI crash. From the earliest stages of a case, our team focuses on protecting victims’ rights and easing the burden families face during an overwhelming time. Insurance companies may attempt to limit payouts or push for quick settlements before the full impact of the crash is understood. We handle all communication with insurers, identify every available source of compensation, and pursue damages that reflect medical expenses, lost income, and emotional loss. With experienced legal guidance, families can focus on healing while trusting that their case is being handled with care, diligence, and determination.

Steps to Take After Being Involved in a DUI Crash in Austin

Being involved in a DUI crash in Austin can leave victims shocked, injured, and unsure of what to do next. The actions taken immediately after the crash can affect both physical recovery and legal rights. Following the proper steps helps protect safety, preserve evidence, and support future claims. Acting thoughtfully during this stressful time is critical.

Prioritize Safety and Seek Immediate Medical Care

Your health and safety should remain the top priority after a DUI crash in Austin. Even injuries that seem minor may worsen over time. Prompt medical care protects both your well being and legal interests.

Call Emergency Services and Accept Medical Evaluation

Contact emergency services immediately after the crash. Paramedics can assess injuries and provide necessary treatment. Accepting medical evaluation creates important documentation. Early care reduces the risk of complications.

Continue Medical Treatment After Leaving the Scene

Some injuries appear hours or days later. Follow all medical recommendations and attend follow up appointments. Consistent treatment supports recovery. Medical records also link injuries to the crash.

Cooperate With Law Enforcement at the Scene

Law enforcement plays a critical role after a DUI crash in Austin. Officers document the scene and investigate potential impairment. Cooperation helps ensure accurate reporting.

Provide Factual Information Without Speculation

Answer officers’ questions honestly and briefly. Avoid guessing or assigning blame. Stick to known facts about the crash. Accurate statements protect credibility.

Obtain the Police Report Information

Request the report number and responding agency information. Police reports often include critical details about impairment. This documentation supports future claims. Accessing the report early helps preparation.

Document the Scene and Preserve Evidence

Evidence can disappear quickly after a DUI crash. Taking steps to document conditions helps preserve important details. Strong evidence supports accountability.

Take Photos and Videos if Possible

Photograph vehicle damage, roadway conditions, and visible injuries. Capture traffic signs and skid marks when safe. Visual evidence provides valuable context. Time stamped images strengthen claims.

Collect Witness Contact Information

Witnesses may leave the scene quickly. Ask for names and contact details if possible. Independent witnesses often provide helpful perspectives. Early collection prevents lost testimony.

Avoid Discussing the Crash With Insurance Companies Alone

Insurance companies may contact victims soon after a DUI crash in Austin. These conversations can affect future claims. Proceed carefully.

Do Not Provide Recorded Statements Immediately

Insurers may request recorded statements early. These statements can be used against you later. Politely decline until you receive legal guidance. Protecting your words protects your claim.

Avoid Accepting Early Settlement Offers

Early settlement offers may undervalue injuries and losses. Serious DUI crashes often involve long term consequences. Accepting quickly may limit recovery. Review offers carefully with guidance.

Track Expenses and Ongoing Losses

Financial losses often extend beyond initial medical bills. Tracking expenses helps support full compensation. Organization strengthens claims.

Keep Records of Medical and Related Costs

Save bills, receipts, and treatment records. Include medications, therapy, and medical equipment. Detailed records demonstrate financial impact. Documentation supports reimbursement.

Document Lost Income and Work Limitations

Record missed workdays and income loss. Obtain employer verification when possible. Track reduced work capacity if applicable. These records support wage loss claims.

Consider Speaking With a DUI Crash Attorney

Legal guidance can help victims navigate the aftermath of a DUI crash in Austin. An attorney helps protect rights and clarify options. Early consultation often improves outcomes.

Understand Your Legal Rights and Options

An attorney explains potential claims and next steps. Understanding options reduces uncertainty. Legal advice helps avoid mistakes. Knowledge empowers decision making.

Allow Legal Support to Handle Complex Issues

DUI crash cases often involve insurance disputes and criminal proceedings. Attorneys manage communication and strategy. This support reduces stress. Victims can focus on healing.

Act Promptly to Protect Your Claim

Time matters after a DUI crash in Austin. Delays can weaken claims and limit options. Early action preserves rights.

Be Aware of Legal Deadlines

Texas law sets strict filing deadlines for injury claims. Missing deadlines can bar recovery. Acting early protects eligibility. Timely filing remains essential.

Preserve Evidence Before It Is Lost

Surveillance footage and digital data may disappear quickly. Witness memories may fade. Early action helps secure proof. Preserved evidence strengthens claims.

Actions Austin DUI Attorneys Take to Help Victims Recover Compensation

Austin DUI attorneys take deliberate and strategic action to help victims pursue fair compensation after serious crashes. DUI cases often involve severe injuries, criminal charges, and aggressive insurance defense tactics. Because of this complexity, attorneys focus on protecting victims’ rights while building strong civil claims. Their work helps balance the legal process and improves recovery opportunities.

Conducting a Thorough Case Investigation

Attorneys begin by conducting a detailed investigation into every aspect of the DUI crash. This process helps identify responsible parties and uncover critical supporting evidence. Early investigation allows attorneys to preserve facts while memories remain fresh. A strong investigative foundation supports the entire claim.

Reviewing Police Reports and Toxicology Results

Attorneys carefully review police reports to identify signs of impairment or traffic violations. Toxicology results often provide clear confirmation of intoxication. These official records play a central role in establishing liability. Accurate documentation strengthens negotiations and litigation positions.

Analyzing Crash Scene and Vehicle Evidence

Attorneys examine crash scene photographs, vehicle damage, and roadway conditions closely. They analyze impact points to understand collision dynamics. Physical evidence helps establish how the crash occurred. Detailed analysis supports clear accountability arguments.

Preserving and Securing Critical Evidence

Evidence can disappear quickly after a DUI crash in Austin, especially on busy roadways. Attorneys act promptly to secure materials before they are lost or destroyed. Early preservation protects the strength of the claim. Timely action often makes a significant difference.

Obtaining Surveillance and Traffic Camera Footage

Attorneys request footage from traffic cameras and nearby businesses as soon as possible. Video evidence may capture impaired driving behavior or crash sequences. This footage provides objective support for liability claims. Prompt requests help prevent automatic deletion.

Identifying and Interviewing Witnesses

Witnesses may leave the scene shortly after a crash occurs. Attorneys locate and interview witnesses early in the process. Consistent statements strengthen credibility and clarify disputed facts. Witness testimony supports accurate reconstruction.

Handling Communication With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often attempt to limit payouts after DUI crashes. Attorneys manage all communication with insurers to protect victims. This approach prevents misstatements and unfair pressure. Professional handling reduces stress for clients.

Preventing Harmful Statements and Admissions

Attorneys guide clients on what information to share and what to avoid. They handle requests for recorded statements directly. Controlled communication protects the integrity of the claim. Guidance reduces unnecessary risk.

Challenging Low Settlement Offers

Insurers may present early settlement offers that undervalue serious injuries. Attorneys evaluate these offers carefully and identify shortcomings. They negotiate assertively when offers fail to reflect damages. Strong advocacy improves recovery outcomes.

Establishing Liability and Proving Negligence

Although DUI crashes often involve clear negligence, insurers may still dispute fault. Attorneys work to present liability clearly and convincingly. Strong evidence helps overcome denial tactics. Proven negligence supports full compensation.

Demonstrating Impairment and Reckless Behavior

Attorneys present evidence showing intoxication and unsafe driving conduct. Breath tests, blood results, and field sobriety tests support claims. Reckless behavior strengthens negligence arguments. Clear proof carries weight.

Addressing Comparative Fault Allegations

Insurers may attempt to assign partial blame to victims. Attorneys challenge unsupported comparative fault arguments. They use evidence to protect recovery rights. Strong advocacy limits improper blame shifting.

Calculating and Documenting Full Damages

Accurate damage calculation remains essential after a DUI crash. Attorneys ensure claims include all financial and personal losses. Comprehensive documentation supports fair valuation. Thorough preparation strengthens negotiations.

Gathering Medical and Financial Records

Attorneys collect medical bills, treatment records, and wage documentation carefully. These records establish the full financial impact of injuries. Organized documentation supports credibility. Accuracy remains critical.

Valuing Long Term and Emotional Losses

Attorneys account for future medical needs and lasting limitations. They include pain, suffering, and emotional distress damages. These losses deserve full recognition. Proper valuation supports complete recovery.

Coordinating Civil Claims With Criminal DUI Proceedings

DUI crashes often involve parallel criminal and civil cases. Attorneys coordinate strategies carefully to avoid conflicts. Alignment strengthens both proceedings. Coordination improves overall outcomes.

Using Criminal Evidence to Support Civil Liability

Criminal convictions and court records may support civil claims. Attorneys use this evidence strategically. Criminal findings often strengthen negligence arguments. Coordination adds leverage.

Protecting Victims’ Rights During Criminal Cases

Victims have specific rights during criminal DUI proceedings. Attorneys explain participation options clearly. Guidance ensures victims feel informed and supported. Support reduces uncertainty.

Managing Legal Deadlines and Procedural Requirements

Strict deadlines apply to DUI crash claims in Austin. Attorneys monitor timelines closely to avoid errors. Proper filing protects recovery rights. Attention to detail remains essential.

Tracking Statutes of Limitations

Attorneys calculate and track filing deadlines accurately. Missing deadlines can permanently end claims. Timely action preserves legal options. Precision matters.

Preparing Claims for Litigation When Necessary

Some DUI crash cases require filing lawsuits to resolve disputes. Attorneys prepare pleadings and evidence thoroughly. Litigation readiness strengthens negotiation positions. Preparation supports success.

Providing Ongoing Guidance and Client Support

Recovering after a DUI crash can feel overwhelming for victims. Attorneys provide consistent guidance throughout the process. Clear communication builds trust. Support helps clients stay informed.

Keeping Clients Informed at Every Stage

Attorneys update clients regularly on case progress and next steps. They explain legal developments in plain language. Transparency builds confidence. Informed clients make better decisions.

Allowing Victims to Focus on Healing

Attorneys handle complex legal tasks and insurer communication. Victims can focus on physical and emotional recovery. Reduced stress supports well being. Legal support makes a meaningful difference.

Legal Options After a Southeast Austin DUI Crash

A Southeast Austin DUI crash can create both criminal and civil legal consequences. While criminal charges focus on punishment, civil claims focus on helping victims recover losses. Understanding available legal options allows victims and families to protect their rights. Early action often strengthens outcomes and preserves important evidence.

Pursuing a Personal Injury Claim After a DUI Crash

Victims injured in a Southeast Austin DUI crash may pursue a personal injury claim against the impaired driver. This civil claim seeks compensation for injuries and related losses. Unlike criminal cases, personal injury claims focus on victim recovery. Legal guidance helps navigate this process effectively.

Holding the Impaired Driver Financially Responsible

A personal injury claim allows victims to hold the intoxicated driver accountable for harm caused. Evidence such as police reports and toxicology results often supports these claims. Establishing impairment strengthens liability arguments. Accountability promotes fair compensation.

Recovering Damages Beyond Criminal Penalties

Criminal penalties do not compensate victims for medical or financial losses. A civil claim addresses these unmet needs. Compensation may cover medical costs, lost income, and pain. Civil recovery plays a critical role after DUI crashes.

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Fatal DUI Crashes

When a Southeast Austin DUI crash results in death, families may pursue a wrongful death claim. This legal option allows loved ones to seek accountability and financial support. Wrongful death claims focus on long term family impact. Legal guidance remains essential during this process.

Eligible Family Members and Claim Rights

Texas law limits who may file a wrongful death claim. Eligible parties often include spouses, children, and parents. Understanding eligibility prevents filing errors. Proper filing protects family rights.

Damages Available in Wrongful Death Cases

Wrongful death claims may include funeral expenses and lost financial support. Families may also seek damages for emotional loss. Courts evaluate family relationships carefully. Comprehensive claims reflect full impact.

Navigating Insurance Claims After a DUI Crash

Insurance claims often follow a Southeast Austin DUI crash. However, insurers may challenge liability or damages aggressively. Legal representation helps protect victims during this process. Proper handling prevents unfair outcomes.

Dealing With Liability and Coverage Disputes

Insurers may dispute fault or policy limits after DUI crashes. Multiple policies may apply in some cases. Identifying coverage sources requires careful review. Legal guidance helps uncover all options.

Avoiding Low Settlement Offers

Insurance companies may offer quick settlements that undervalue serious injuries. Early offers often fail to reflect future costs. Legal review helps evaluate fairness. Negotiation improves compensation potential.

Understanding the Role of Criminal DUI Charges

Criminal charges often accompany a Southeast Austin DUI crash. These proceedings run separately from civil claims. Understanding how they interact helps victims plan effectively.

How Criminal Cases Impact Civil Claims

Criminal convictions may support civil liability. Evidence from criminal cases can strengthen personal injury claims. However, civil cases do not depend on convictions. Legal strategy accounts for both processes.

Victim Rights During Criminal Proceedings

Victims have rights during criminal DUI cases. These rights may include receiving updates and submitting impact statements. Legal guidance helps families understand participation options. Support ensures voices are heard.

Considering Claims Against Third Parties

Some Southeast Austin DUI crash cases involve additional liable parties. Third party claims may expand recovery options. Identifying these parties requires thorough investigation.

Dram Shop and Alcohol Provider Liability

Texas law allows claims against alcohol providers in certain situations. Bars or establishments may face liability for overserving. Dram shop claims require specific evidence. Legal analysis determines eligibility.

Employer Liability in DUI Related Crashes

If a drunk driver acted within employment duties, employer liability may apply. Work related crashes raise additional legal questions. Employer insurance coverage may increase recovery. Investigation clarifies responsibility.

Importance of Acting Within Legal Deadlines

Strict deadlines apply to claims after a Southeast Austin DUI crash. Missing deadlines can eliminate legal options entirely. Early action protects the right to recover damages.

Statute of Limitations for DUI Crash Claims

Texas law sets time limits for personal injury and wrongful death claims. These limits begin running soon after the crash. Delays can bar recovery. Timely filing remains critical.

Preserving Evidence Before It Disappears

Evidence may degrade or disappear quickly after a DUI crash. Surveillance footage and witness memories fade. Early legal action helps preserve proof. Strong evidence strengthens claims.

How Legal Guidance Supports Better Outcomes

Legal options after a Southeast Austin DUI crash can feel overwhelming. Experienced guidance helps victims make informed decisions. Clear strategy improves recovery potential.

Coordinating Civil and Criminal Legal Strategies

Managing both civil and criminal matters requires careful coordination. Inconsistent actions can harm claims. Attorneys align strategies effectively. Coordination strengthens outcomes.

Reducing Stress While Protecting Rights

Legal representation reduces burden during recovery. Attorneys handle complex tasks and communication. Victims can focus on healing. Support promotes peace of mind.

Compensation That May Be Available After a Southeast Austin DUI Crash

A Southeast Austin DUI crash can leave victims facing serious physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Because impaired driving often causes severe harm, compensation may extend beyond immediate medical costs. Understanding available damages helps victims and families pursue fair recovery. Each claim depends on documented losses and legal responsibility.

Medical Expenses and Ongoing Treatment Costs

Medical expenses are often the most urgent concern after a Southeast Austin DUI crash. Victims may require extensive treatment due to the severity of impaired driving collisions. Compensation can help address both immediate and future medical needs.

Emergency Care and Hospital Treatment

Emergency responders often transport DUI crash victims to hospitals for urgent care. Treatment may include surgery, imaging, and intensive monitoring. Hospital bills can accumulate quickly. Compensation may cover these critical medical services.

Long Term Medical Care and Rehabilitation

Some injuries require months or years of continued care. Physical therapy, specialist visits, and rehabilitation may become necessary. Long term treatment creates lasting financial pressure. Claims should account for future medical expenses.

Lost Income and Reduced Earning Capacity

Injuries from a Southeast Austin DUI crash can disrupt a victim’s ability to work. Missed income may affect household stability and long term financial plans. Compensation may address both temporary and permanent losses.

Wages Lost During Recovery

Victims often miss work while healing from serious injuries. Lost wages can create immediate financial strain. Compensation may help replace income during recovery. Employment records support these claims.

Long Term Impact on Career and Earnings

Some injuries permanently limit a victim’s ability to work. Reduced earning capacity may affect future career opportunities. These losses require careful evaluation. Compensation should reflect long term financial impact.

Pain and Suffering Damages

Pain and suffering damages recognize the human impact of a Southeast Austin DUI crash. These damages address more than financial losses. Recovery often involves lasting physical and emotional challenges.

Physical Pain and Lasting Discomfort

Serious injuries can cause ongoing pain that affects daily life. Chronic discomfort may persist long after treatment ends. Compensation considers injury severity and duration. Medical documentation supports these claims.

Emotional Distress and Mental Health Effects

Victims may experience anxiety, depression, or trauma following a DUI crash. Emotional injuries can disrupt sleep, work, and relationships. Mental health treatment may be necessary. Compensation may address these effects.

Property Damage and Related Losses

DUI crashes frequently cause significant vehicle and property damage. Repair or replacement costs can add financial stress. Compensation may help restore property losses.

Vehicle Repair or Replacement Costs

Severe collisions may leave vehicles beyond repair. Compensation may cover repair expenses or replacement value. Towing and storage costs may also apply. Proper estimates support recovery.

Damage to Personal Property

Personal items inside vehicles may suffer damage during a crash. Electronics, clothing, and equipment may require replacement. These losses often add up quickly. Claims should include documented property damage.

Out of Pocket and Additional Expenses

Victims often incur additional costs after a Southeast Austin DUI crash. These expenses may appear gradually during recovery. Compensation may address these ongoing financial burdens.

Transportation and Daily Assistance Costs

Injuries may limit a victim’s ability to drive or complete daily tasks. Transportation services or home assistance may become necessary. These costs increase financial strain. Documentation supports reimbursement.

Medical Travel and Miscellaneous Costs

Travel to medical appointments can create recurring expenses. Parking fees and medical supplies add additional costs. Small expenses can accumulate over time. Tracking costs helps ensure full compensation.

Wrongful Death Damages in Fatal DUI Crashes

When a Southeast Austin DUI crash results in death, families may pursue wrongful death compensation. These claims address profound emotional and financial losses. Legal guidance is especially important.

Funeral and Burial Expenses

Funeral and burial costs can create sudden financial hardship for families. Compensation may cover reasonable funeral expenses. These costs deserve careful documentation. Claims help ease immediate burdens.

Loss of Financial and Emotional Support

Families may lose income, guidance, and companionship after a fatal DUI crash. These losses affect long term stability. Compensation considers both financial and emotional harm. Courts review family relationships closely.

Importance of a Complete Damage Evaluation

Failing to identify all damages can limit recovery after a Southeast Austin DUI crash. Some losses appear later or worsen over time. A thorough evaluation protects victims’ interests.

Identifying All Recoverable Losses

Medical, financial, and emotional damages often overlap. Carrying out a comprehensive evaluation ensures no losses are overlooked. Proper assessment strengthens claims. Preparation supports fair outcomes.

How Legal Guidance Supports Full Compensation

Attorneys help gather evidence and present damages clearly. Legal guidance ensures accurate valuation of losses. Strong claims improve negotiation outcomes. Support helps victims pursue full recovery.

Contact an Experienced Southeast Austin DUI Crash Lawyer Today 

Recovering from a serious DUI crash in Southeast Austin can feel overwhelming, especially when injuries, emotional trauma, and financial uncertainty collide at once. Having an experienced attorney on your side can provide clarity during a confusing and stressful time. At Baker Matthews Law, our team understands the complexities of DUI crash cases and the impact they have on victims and their families. We take a compassionate, hands-on approach, carefully reviewing the circumstances of the crash, explaining your legal options, and guiding you through each step of the process while protecting your rights.

If you or a loved one has been harmed in a Southeast Austin DUI crash, Baker Matthews Law is prepared to take immediate action on your behalf to pursue accountability and justice. Our firm works closely with investigators to review crash reports, toxicology results, and available evidence to determine how intoxication contributed to the collision. We handle all communication with insurance companies, protect you from unfair settlement tactics, and identify every potential source of compensation, including medical expenses, lost income, future care needs, and emotional losses. Ur team also  helps families understand how a related criminal DUI case may affect their civil claim, ensuring their rights remain protected throughout the process. To speak with a dedicated DUI crash lawyer who will advocate for you at every stage, call us today at (512) 515-9862 or fill out our online contact form.