Burnet County, TX — May 25, 2024, Mira Maldonado, Misty Maldonado, and one other were injured after an alleged drunk driver accident at 5:12 p.m. on U.S. 281.

According to information from authorities, the incident happened in the area of mile marker 420, south of Lampasas.

Mira Maldonado, Misty Maldonado, 1 Injured in Alleged Drunk Driver Accident in Burnet County, TX

Investigators said that 57-year-old Mira Maldonado and 49-year-old Misty Maldonado were in a Chevy Equinox traveling southbound along U.S. 281. From northbound lanes of the highway, it appears a Ford Edge veered left of center, crashing into Mira and Misty Maldonado.

Due to the collision, Mira Maldonado had reportedly serious injuries while Misty Maldonado had injuries described as moderate. The Ford driver’s injuries were also reportedly serious. Right now, authorities allege that the Ford driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. They recommended there be a charge for intoxication assault.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

If the allegations prove to be true, taking steps to see the alleged drunk driver have their day in court is obviously a positive step forward. However, it may only be one possible step to making things right after a drunk driving wreck. Something that rarely gets attention in the public eye is the fact many alcohol related crashes involve an accomplice: an alcohol provider.

Simply put, it’s illegal in Texas to over-serve someone who’s obviously intoxicated. Bars, restaurants, and other establishments who do so open themselves up to consequences. This can include criminal investigations, fines, suspended licenses, and even liability for the resulting injuries. Despite this, it’s not often within the scope of a police investigation. They tend to put all of their focus on the drivers. Many of the hundreds of cases against negligent alcohol providers I’ve handled only had parallel criminal investigations after we handed evidence to the authorities ourselves. Perhaps officials here are being more thorough, but that would be an exception, so I wouldn’t take that for granted.

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