Austin driver arrested after fleeing scene of fatal crash

Austin, TX – Local news for the Austin area reported on charges filed against a driver who killed several people in an accident. 

Man charged for fatal crash that killed multiple people in Austin

In Austin, Texas, a tragic car accident has led to the death of four people, and a man has been arrested in connection with the incident [1]. Arthur Wright, aged 35, is facing charges of four counts of intoxication manslaughter and four counts of failure to stop and render aid.

The incident occurred on July 30, 2023, when the Austin Police Department responded to a collision involving a sedan and an SUV. The crash took place in the 4700 block of South IH 35 service road southbound. As a result of the collision, four individuals who were in the SUV lost their lives, while another person sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment, as reported by the police.

The driver of the sedan, Arthur Wright, allegedly fled the scene on foot immediately after the accident. However, he was later located and apprehended by the police, leading to his arrest. The authorities are investigating this incident as the 54th fatal crash in Austin for the year, which has resulted in 57 fatalities thus far.

This tragic event underscores the dangers of impaired driving and its potential to cause devastating consequences. The loss of four lives and the injuries sustained by another individual have left the community mourning and seeking justice.

The Austin Police Department is urging anyone with additional information related to the crash to come forward and cooperate with their investigation. They can be reached at the Vehicular Homicide unit by calling 512-974-8111.

As of now, further details surrounding the circumstances of the accident and the events leading up to it have not been provided in the news report. The investigation is likely to delve deeper into the causes and factors that contributed to this fatal collision.

The community of Austin is left grappling with grief and seeking answers in the wake of this tragic incident. The loss of four lives serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible and safe driving to prevent such heart-wrenching accidents in the future.

It is essential for all drivers to prioritize the safety of themselves and others on the road by abstaining from driving under the influence and always following traffic rules and regulations. Impaired driving not only jeopardizes the lives of those involved but also has far-reaching impacts on families, friends, and the entire community.

Can a family sue a driver who caused a fatal motor vehicle accident in Texas?

In Texas, a family may have legal grounds to sue a driver who caused a fatal motor vehicle accident under certain circumstances. When a loved one dies in a car accident due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another driver, the surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death lawsuit to seek compensation for their losses and hold the responsible party accountable.

To initiate a wrongful death lawsuit in Texas, the following criteria must generally be met:

  • Death Caused by Negligence or Wrongful Act: The family must show that the fatal accident was caused by the negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions of the other driver. This could include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, distracted driving, speeding, or any other breach of the duty of care owed to other road users.
  • Eligible Plaintiffs: Under Texas law, certain family members are eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Typically, the surviving spouse, children, and parents of the deceased can bring a claim. If there are no immediate family members, the deceased’s estate representative or executor may pursue the case.
  • Statute of Limitations: In Texas, there is a statute of limitations that sets a deadline for filing a wrongful death lawsuit. Generally, the lawsuit must be filed within two years from the date of the individual’s death. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in the loss of the right to seek compensation.
  • Evidence of Damages: The family must demonstrate that they have suffered measurable damages as a result of the death. Damages in a wrongful death lawsuit may include medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and emotional pain and suffering.
  • Evidence of Liability: The family needs to establish the liability of the at-fault driver. This might involve gathering evidence from the accident scene, eyewitness testimonies, police reports, and expert analysis of the crash.

When a wrongful death claim is successful, the family may be awarded financial compensation to address their losses. The court may consider economic damages, such as medical expenses and lost income, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering or loss of consortium.

It’s important to note that Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if the deceased individual was partially at fault for the accident, the compensation awarded to the family may be reduced proportionally to their percentage of fault, but they can still recover damages as long as their fault does not exceed 50%.

Navigating the legal complexities of a wrongful death lawsuit can be challenging for grieving families. It is crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in wrongful death cases in Texas. An attorney can provide essential guidance, build a strong case, and advocate for the family’s rights throughout the legal process.

Overall, while a family can pursue legal action against a driver who caused a fatal motor vehicle accident in Texas, the success of their claim hinges on proving negligence, complying with the statute of limitations, and demonstrating the damages suffered due to the loss of their loved one.

Accident lawyers in Austin

Robson Law Firm is a law firm in Austin, Texas that handles car accident and personal injury cases for local clients. Anyone who needs to speak with a lawyer following an injury can contact their firm.

USAttorneys.com is a service that works with people who need to find lawyers. Those who are looking for an attorney can call 800-672-3103 for help.

Firm contact info:

Robson Law Firm

1114 Lost Creek Blvd., Suite 440, Austin TX 78746

512-345-8200

Robsonlawfirm.com

Sources:

  1. https://www.kwtx.com/2023/08/03/austin-man-charged-fatal-car-crash-that-left-4-dead/