Regardless of the circumstances surrounding a car accident, including whether those involved are injured, the event is often a traumatic one. In the aftermath of some accidents, a person involved in a crash can become dazed or disoriented — behaviors that could easily be misinterpreted as being under the influence. In fact, a Texas man now faces accusations of drunk driving following a recent accident.
The accident happened during the early morning hours of a day in mid-October. According to reports, a sedan driven by a 31-year-old man now facing criminal charges struck the rear of a sports utility vehicle. The SUV reportedly overturned, ejecting a female passenger; it was unclear if her safety belt was in use at the time.
Reports claim that the woman suffered a head injury as well as a broken jaw. Police say that the male driver claimed that he couldn’t remember where he was coming from. Officers accuse the man of having bloodshot eyes and smelling of alcohol. He reportedly declined to talk with officers, instead informing them that he wanted to speak with his attorney. He was arrested and charged with intoxicated assault.
The man’s desire to consult with his attorney before speaking with law enforcement officers after they accused him of drunk driving is an understandable one. Though officers often have good intentions, they may be quick to jump to conclusions about the cause of an accident that occurs under certain circumstances — such as during the early morning hours. Fortunately, an experienced criminal defense attorney can help those facing such accusations as they respond to the charges against them.
