Austin DUI Cases Could Be Thrown Out Due To Lack Of Warrants

Until recently, police were authorized to draw a driver’s blood without a warrant in suspected DUI cases. The blood results were then tested for levels of alcohol and for possible drug consumption. The United States Supreme Court recently reviewed this issue and determined that the police must be granted a warrant prior to drawing a person’s blood and due to this recent ruling, as many as 17 DUI arrests in Austin may be thrown out.

DUI blood draws are quite prevalent during dates or events when alcohol consumption is common. There have been approximately 336 DUI arrests during this year’s SXSW/Spring Break alone. During holidays and special event weekends, Austin police officers are on the lookout for intoxicated drivers and now enact “No Refusal Weekends” where police are automatically issued warrants to take blood from drivers who are suspected of driving under the influence.

Car accidents involving drivers charged with DUI also have increased consequences. Those who are injured in DUI related car accidents should be aware that they may be entitled to recover money damages for their injuries. Victims of DUI accidents can receive reimbursement for their out of pocket expenses, as well as compensation for pain and suffering, mental distress, lost wages and other losses.

An Austin car accident attorney from Terry & Kelly, PLLC can assist those who have been involved in DUI and DWI car accidents. Our experienced team is familiar with the complexities of DUI and DWI cases and can help explain your rights. Call Terry & Kelly, PLLC at 512-900-9000 to schedule a consultation.

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Austinite Arrested for DUI While Driving for Lyft

Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft have been making headlines across the nation as friendly, convenient, and cost effective services that provide rides to customers at all hours of the day. However, not all experiences with these services have been positive. In recent months, the city of Austin has been reviewing these companies and has considered placing further restrictions on their drivers, such as mandated fingerprint background checks, as horror stories and incidents make headline news across the country.

One such incident took place just last month when an Austinite actively driving for Lyft – with an unsuspecting passenger in the car – was stopped by police for suspicion of driving under the influence. The police determined that the driver was indeed impaired and placed him under arrest. The passenger was shocked and noted that the driver appeared to be swerving in and out of lanes during the ride, but passed it off initially believing that the driver was “just not paying attention.” However, once when the driver braked at a red light and then cut across several lines without looking, the customer became more concerned. This is when the vehicle was stopped by police for its erratic movements.

Perhaps even more concerning is that this was not the first time this particular driver was stopped for a DUI offense. In this particular case, the vehicle operator had a previous conviction from 2004 for DUI and possession of a controlled substance. Stories such as these have gone viral, leading many to demand fingerprint background checks for those who wish to become Uber or Lyft drivers in order to keep passengers and other drivers safe.

If you should find yourself in an Uber or Lyft ride where the driver appears to be impaired, request that the driver stop immediately or call 911 for help. Safety on the road, whether behind the wheel or as a passenger, is our top concern at Terry & Kelly, PLLC. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s extremely important to contact an Austin Car Accident Attorney immediately in order to preserve your legal rights. Call us today at 512-900-9000 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

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Austin Metro Area Tops 2 Million Population Mark

Having just recently passed the 2 million mark in population, the Austin area continues to be the fastest growing metropolitan area in the country. This marks the 5th straight year that Austin has earned such recognition. While these are exciting and vibrant times in the Austin area, all of that growth has also brought about an unprecedented surge in the number of vehicles and accidents on our roads.

A booming population has many benefits, from increased infrastructure to plentiful employment opportunities, but there can be some downsides as well. A recent rise in the number of car accidents taking place in and around Austin has also made headlines as the city struggles to catch up with the rising population. From minor injuries to major traffic incidents and fatalities, these accidents are taking on toll our city and residents.

In the event you have been involved in a car accident in Austin, contact an Austin car accident attorney immediately. Call Terry & Kelly, PLLC at 512-900-9000 for a free initial consultation and case review. We are an experienced and personal injury law firm that understands the unique circumstances revolving around Austin’s population growth and will work to vigorously defend your rights.

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