A crash on Northwest Loop 410 early Saturday morning left two passengers seriously injured and resulted in the arrest of a 24-year-old driver on intoxication assault charges. According to San Antonio police, the driver of a Chrysler 300 collided with a barrier while attempting to avoid a stalled vehicle in the main lanes of the highway near Callaghan Road.
The passengers, a 22-year-old woman and a 23-year-old man, were transported to the hospital with serious injuries. Police allege that the Chrysler’s driver was intoxicated at the time of the crash, leading to her arrest on two counts of intoxication assault.
This crash raises critical questions about the role of the stalled vehicle and whether an alcohol provider may share responsibility under Texas dram shop laws.
Was the Intoxicated Driver Overserved?
Texas dram shop law holds alcohol providers accountable if they serve someone who is obviously intoxicated and that person later causes harm. Investigators should explore whether the driver consumed alcohol at a bar, restaurant, or other venue before the crash.
Key evidence includes receipts, surveillance footage, and witness statements from any establishments she may have visited. If she was overserved despite obvious signs of impairment, a business may have to answer for their unlawful actions.
What Evidence Should Be Collected?
To fully understand the events leading up to this crash, investigators should collect data on the stalled vehicle’s condition, including whether its hazard lights were functioning and in use. Witness testimony or surveillance footage may provide additional context about whether the stalled vehicle was visible to oncoming traffic.
As far as determining whether or not an alcohol provider contributed to this incident, receipts, toxicology reports, and video footage from any establishments the driver visited can help determine if she was overserved.
Why These Kinds of Questions Matter
The bottom line is that two people suffered serious injuries as a result of this crash. Investigating whether the driver was overserved is a crucial step in providing clarity and accountability for those affected.
In my experience, answering these questions is key to understanding what happened and holding the responsible parties accountable. Thorough investigations help ensure that all contributing factors are identified.