Driver Injured in Single-Vehicle Accident on E Commerce St in Port Lavaca, TX
Port Lavaca, TX — July 24, 2022, a 64-year-old man was seriously injured in a single-vehicle accident on Commerce Street in Calhoun County.
Authorities say the incident happened around 10:30 p.m. on North Commerce near East Mahan Street. Preliminary investigation suggests the victim was driving a Dodge Caravan south on the roadway when he lost control for unconfirmed reasons. The Dodge veered out of its lane and crashed into a nearby telephone pole.
The driver suffered serious injuries in the crash. Police allege he ran away from the scene but was apprehended a short while later. He was believed to be under the influence of alcohol but reportedly refused to provide specimens for testing.
No further information is currently available.
Commentary on Auto Accident on Commerce St in Port Lavaca
Police think the injured driver was impaired by alcohol when he hit the telephone pole, but he apparently wasn't feeling cooperative when they tried to verify their suspicions. Usually when that happens they get a warrant or subpoena his hospital records, but one way or another they usually get what they need to find out if they're right.
If evidence ultimately shows alcohol was a factor as suspected, the driver may face some legal consequences for his choices that day. Some may assume that's more or less the final step, but investigators should also look into where his drinks came from.
Texas dram shop law broadens the responsibility for DWI wrecks beyond the drivers to sometimes include the businesses that sold or served them drinks. If further investigations determine a licensed alcohol vendor over-served the driver prior to him injuring himself in that crash, the business may be expected to make whatever amends it can--including giving him some help with getting back on his feet.
Not every DWI wreck involves a dram violation, but they're far more common than they ideally should be. If a local business over-served the driver and sent him on his way, it should be held accountable for the role it played in the damage done. Will someone make sure that happens?
