Austin County, TX — April 23, 2025, Dekobe Lewis and one other were injured following an alleged drunk driver accident around 4:30 p.m. on Highway 36.
Authorities said that the accident happened at the intersection of Highway 36 and FM 2429.
According to officials, 23-year-old Dekobe Lewis was in a Ford Five Hundred going southbound. A Toyota Rav4 was going the same direction when the driver reportedly failed to control speed. As a result, the Toyota collided with the Ford and a Nissan.
Due to the collision, Dekobe Lewis had serious injuries while the Toyota driver had moderate injuries. The Toyota driver is accused of being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident, and authorities recommended charges.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When someone is accused of driving drunk and causing a serious crash, it’s understandable to focus on the driver—and in many cases, they should be held responsible. But even when charges are filed, it’s worth asking: Is this the whole story?
If intoxication played a role in this incident, for example, the next question should be whether the driver was drinking at a bar, restaurant, or similar establishment before getting on the road. Texas dram shop law makes it possible for those businesses to be held accountable if they over-serve someone who is obviously intoxicated and that person later causes harm as a result. It’s not just about punishment—it’s about making sure all parties who may have contributed to a serious accident are held to account.
Unfortunately, that part of the investigation is often overlooked unless someone asks the right questions early. Key evidence—like receipts, surveillance footage, or witness testimony—are often time sensitive. If no one looks into it, a negligent alcohol provider may never face any consequences, even if their actions helped set this crash in motion.
Key Takeaways:
- If the driver was over-served alcohol while already obviously intoxicated, a business may have played a role in the crash.
- Texas law allows negligent alcohol providers to be held accountable—but only if evidence is preserved and the right questions are asked.
- Looking beyond just the driver helps ensure everyone responsible is held to the same standard of accountability.
call us 
Email Us 
Text us