Kelsie McLemore, 1 Injured in Car Accident in Denton, TX

Denton, TX — May 8, 2024, Kelsie McLemore and one other were injured due to an alleged intoxicated driver accident at around 8:40 p.m. on I-35.

Preliminary details from officials say that the accident happened along the southbound I-35 service road in the area o West University Drive/U.S. 380.

According to officials, 18-year-old Kelsie McLemore was a passenger in a Toyota Camry being driven along the interstate. Authorities say the driver of that vehicle drifted off-road, continued some distance, then hit an embankment at an exit ramp. This led to the vehicle overturning back onto lanes of travel.

McLemore reportedly had serious injuries due to the crash. The driver of the car had less serious injuries. That driver is being accused of driving while intoxicated, and authorities recommended charges including intoxication assault. Other details aren’t confirmed right now.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

If these allegations are true, did authorities also look into whether or not the driver was illegally over-served? I have families call me all the time to hold intoxicated drivers accountable after a crash—rightfully so. But they don’t often realize there’s usually an accomplice to these accidents: a negligent alcohol provider.

Simply put, if a bar, restaurant, liquor store, or other alcohol provider over-serves someone who’s obviously intoxicated, they can be responsible for that. This can include fines, criminal investigations, suspended liquor licenses, and even liability for any resulting injuries.

Having worked with hundreds of families harmed by negligent alcohol providers, I know this area of the law can sound odd for those who have never heard of it before. Here’s something to consider that might make things more clear. If someone is intoxicated and hurts someone in an accident, they can be held accountable for that. If a bar breaks the law, and that leads to people getting hurt, why should they be let off the hook? Frankly, they should face appropriate consequences, as well. And that’s not just my opinion. That’s Texas law.