A 32-year-old Texas man who was reportedly involved in a drunk driving accident that left a motorcyclist dead on April 10 was charged with intoxication manslaughter. According to the authorities, the accident occurred in the eastbound lanes of the East Freeway near Beltway 8.
The man allegedly rear-ended the motorcyclist so that the bike became embedded on the front of the vehicle. The rider suffered serious injuries and later died at a nearby hospital. A witness who reportedly saw the accident happen told authorities that the accused driver did not seem concerned and that he tried to leave the scene. When officers arrived at the scene, they stated that the man refused to submit to a sobriety test. He was released on bond and was scheduled to return to court on June 9.
The consequences of a drunk driving charge can be particularly severe, especially if the accused person already has a previous drunk driving record. For example, the person may face an extensive jail sentence, fines and a conviction on their criminal record. The accused person may also potentially have their driver’s license suspended, which may make it difficult to get to work.
There are several different defense strategies that an attorney may utilize to fight a drunk driving charge, though the defense will depend on the evidence against the accused person and the circumstances of the case. In some cases, the attorney may argue that sobriety tests were not properly performed or that the authorities made mistakes when taking the accused person into custody. The attorney may also assist with a driver’s license suspension hearing, which may result in a lesser license suspension.
Source: Click2Houston.com, “Accused drunk driver charged in death of motorcyclist,” Ruben Hidalgo, April 14, 2015