Dallas, TX (December 7, 2023) Kenneth Burke, a Dallas firefighter, was struck and seriously injured by a drunk driver while riding his motorcycle on Sunday, December 3rd. Crescencio Del Rio Rodriguez, 51, was arrested following the collision. It happened around 2:45 a.m. when Del Rio Rodriguez was driving the wrong way on Columbia Avenue.
Police officers actually have video of Del Rio Rodriguez driving the wrong way in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck. Initial reports indicate that he turned left into a vacant lot and hit Kenneth Burke, who was on a motorcycle.
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Officers at the scene said that they “smelled the odor of alcoholic beverages coming from the vehicle,” according to the affidavit. Del Rio Rodriguez had a female passenger in the vehicle with him and officers said they had conflicting stories about what happened.
Del Rio Rodriguez was given a sobriety test, which he failed. He was arrested and is facing charges of intoxication assault. Officers also learned that there is a hold on him by ICE because he’s an illegal immigrant.
Burke is still in a hospital, fighting for his life, according to his family. His sister, Tamara Maya, stated that Burke was in a medically induced coma and has had surgeries following the accident. Doctors woke up Burke on Tuesday, December 5th, and he gave a thumbs up. The family is angry and are seeking justice for this Dallas DUI accident.
Fault In A Dallas DUI Collision
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Pursuant to Texas Vehicle Code 49.04, “(a) a person commits an offense if the person is intoxicated while operating a motor vehicle in a public place. (b) Except as provided by subsections. (c) and (d) and Section 49.09, an offense under this section is a Class B Misdemeanor with a minimum term of confinement of 72 hours.” Even small amounts of alcohol can substantially impair drivers in the following ways:
- Delayed reaction times
- Loss of muscle control
- Impaired judgment
- Lowered alertness
The family of any victim that has been injured or killed in a collision with a drunk driver may have legal recourse through a bodily injury or wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Dallas DUI Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Kenneth Burke during this difficult time. Anyone who may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about an accident that took place in Dallas? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. Whether you just have legal questions or need more information about an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (866)945-4286.