Intoxication Manslaughter in San Antonio: Civil Liability After a Fatal DWI Crash

A tragic crash on San Antonio’s North Side has led to the arrest of a man now charged with intoxication manslaughter, according to police. Officers say the driver, believed to have been under the influence, struck another vehicle near the intersection of Wurzbach Parkway and Wetmore Road. The impact caused severe damage and tragically claimed at least one life.

This heartbreaking event is another reminder of how dangerous drunk driving continues to be in San Antonio. It also shows how one incident can lead to two separate legal consequences for the driver involved.

Understanding the Dual Consequences: Criminal and Civil Cases

When a driver is charged with intoxication manslaughter in Texas, they face serious criminal penalties, including possible prison time, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. However, the criminal case is only part of the story. The victim’s family may also have the right to file a civil claim to recover damages for their loss.

A wrongful death lawsuit gives families a way to seek justice through the civil courts. While the criminal process focuses on punishment, a civil claim focuses on providing justice and financial relief for those left behind.

Here’s why this distinction is important:

• A criminal conviction is not required to win a civil case.
• The burden of proof in civil court is lower, meaning the evidence only needs to show that the claim is more likely true than not.
• Families can recover damages for funeral expenses, lost income, emotional suffering, and loss of companionship.

Even while the criminal case is still underway, families can begin protecting their rights and gathering the evidence needed for a civil claim.

Challenges in Drunk Driving–Related Cases

Cases involving intoxicated drivers are often complicated. Important evidence such as toxicology results, bodycam footage, and field sobriety reports can remain tied up in a criminal investigation for months. During this time, insurance companies may try to reduce payouts or deny responsibility altogether.

That is why it is crucial to involve a lawyer early. An experienced attorney can send preservation letters, locate witnesses, and secure video or accident data before it disappears. Acting quickly helps ensure that key information is not lost and that the family’s case stays strong.

What It Takes to Build a Strong Case

Winning a wrongful death or personal injury case after a DWI crash takes more than sympathy. It takes solid evidence. A successful claim often includes:

• Proof of intoxication such as BAC test results or police reports
• Accident reconstruction that explains how the collision happened
• Eyewitness testimony and scene photographs
• Documentation of medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional impact

An experienced San Antonio car accident attorney knows how to collect this information and present it effectively, even while a criminal case is still in progress.

Making Things Right for Injured Texans

For more than 23 years, Toscano Law Firm has helped San Antonio families affected by drunk driving and wrongful death cases. We understand the pain these situations bring and how difficult the legal process can be during such a devastating time.

Our mission is simple: to make things right for you. From the first call, our team works to recover every dollar you deserve while guiding you through each step with care, honesty, and the determination Texans are known for.