When involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, knowing your rights and taking swift action are crucial steps towards obtaining the compensation you deserve. Our team of experienced Houston drunk driving accident lawyers is here to guide you through this challenging time. If a drunk driver has injured you, call Baumgartner Law Firm for a free consultation at (281) 587-1111.
Drunk driving accidents in Houston (also called DUI or DWI) are not just unfortunate events—they’re entirely preventable tragedies that can result in severe physical and emotional trauma. From brain injuries to post-traumatic stress disorder, the repercussions of such accidents can be life-altering.
You don’t have to go through this complex legal process alone. Our Houston drunk driving lawyer offers a free case evaluation- 24/7. There are no upfront costs; you only pay if we win your case. Don’t wait to seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today.
Our track record speaks for itself – our drunk driving accident lawyers in Houston have been recognized as among the best in Texas, securing millions for accident victims in cases against drunk drivers and even negligent establishments like bars or clubs.
What Compensation Can I Get in a Drunk Driving Accident Case?
One essential element in seeking compensation is providing objective findings from your doctors. These medical reports will help establish the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life. Additionally, the total amount of your medical bills and lost wages will be considered when determining the compensation you may be entitled to. It is important to gather all the necessary documentation to support your claim.
Another crucial factor that can influence the value of your case is the available insurance coverage. We will assess the available insurance for your accident.
In drunk driving cases, punitive damages may be possible, which can significantly increase the value of the claim.
Our top-rated personal injury lawyers have a proven track record of successfully representing drunk driving victims and securing full and just compensation for their injuries. We take pride in our commitment to providing compassionate support and expert legal representation throughout the entire process.
If you have any questions about your rights or the next steps, we encourage you to contact our legal team for a case evaluation. We are here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Actual damages for personal injury from a drunk driving accident in Texas include:
- Pain and suffering.
- Medical expenses.
- Lost wages.
- Disfigurement.
- Disability.
- Mental anguish.
Also, punitive damages are punishment damages the drunk driving accident lawyers at our firm frequently seek for drunk driving accident victims in drunk driving accident lawsuits.
Our attorneys are skilled at evaluating personal injury cases for other responsible parties, such as bars or clubs.
We are undefeated in DWI motor vehicle accidents and have recovered millions for our clients hit by drunk drivers.
How to File a Lawsuit Against the Drunk Driver
A lawsuit is often necessary to obtain justice after an accident with a drunk driver. Even if the intoxicated driver is found guilty in a criminal case, that does not help the injury victim. To get compensation an attorney often must file a lawsuit on your behalf to get maximum compensation for your personal injury damages or your loss of a family member.
While a criminal prosecution can delay a civil lawsuit for damages a guilty verdict or plea can often help and lawsuit against the drunk driver. Even if the driver is not convicted of drunk driving, a civil lawsuit can still be filed seeking compensation for your injuries.
When we handle your drunk driving accident case, we will:
- Work to obtain and preserve vital evidence.
- Learn where the driver got drunk.
- Investigate your case and locate witnesses.
- Ensure you get the medical help that you need.
- Consult with expert witnesses when necessary.
- Work to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Handle all communications and negotiations with the insurance company.
- Take your case to court when necessary.
Drunk Driving Expertise at Baumgartner Law Firm?
- Baumgartner Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars in damages for victims hit by a drunk driver in a car accident.
- We have helped Texans injured in drunk driving accidents since 1985.
- Our firm is nationally rated and widely recognized as one of Texas’s best personal injury lawyers.
- All motor vehicle accident cases are taken on a contingent fee basis. No upfront money is required.
- We are skilled at maximizing your compensation from the insurance company.
- A consultation with one of our experienced drunk driving accident attorneys is free!
- Attorney Greg Baumgartner holds double law degrees and has been peer-reviewed, preeminent rated for decades, and recognized by Super Lawyers, Justia, Avvo, Martindale, and many others.
We are proud to be rated a top DUI accident lawyer. At Baumgartner Law Firm, we have handled hundreds of Houston drunk driving cases, recovered many multi-million dollar results for our clients, and never lost a drunk driving case. If you were in an accident caused by a drunk driver, call Baumgartner Law Firm.
What Damages Can You Get in a Drunk Driving Case?
Who Can Be Liable for Drunk Driving Accidents?
An investigation of a DWI or DWI accident will focus on proving the personal injury or wrongful death case. A big part of the investigation of intoxicated drivers is directed to what third parties may also be responsible for the injuries caused by the accident.
Bars, Clubs, and Social Hosts- Dram Shop
In some instances, Texas laws can hold alcohol providers liable for the injuries caused by a drunk driver who was served alcohol there. This means that bars, restaurants, and other alcohol vendors can be held responsible if they serve alcohol to individuals who are underage or visibly intoxicated, posing a risk to themselves and others. Additionally, social hosts who provide alcohol to underage individuals can also be held liable.
To successfully hold these third parties accountable, the injuries must be a foreseeable result of the person’s intoxication. These legal claims, often called “dram shop” claims, are not always available.
Employers and Others Negligently Entrusting the Vehicle
Also, if someone loans or knowingly lets an impaired driver use a vehicle, they might be held responsible for negligently entrusting the vehicle to the drinking driver. At Baumgartner Law Firm, our DUI accident attorney has successfully pursued employers for negligently entrusting a company vehicle to a dangerous or intoxicated driver.
However, consulting with an attorney can help identify when additional parties can be held responsible for the losses suffered in a Houston DUI accident.
Why Call the Police After an Accident If You Believe The Other Driver is Drunk?
Calling the police after an accident, particularly if you suspect the other driver is intoxicated, is crucial for several important reasons. Law enforcement officers can swiftly arrive at the scene and carry out various assessments, such as field sobriety tests and breathalyzer tests, and employ other suitable tactics to determine if the driver is impaired or exceeding the legal alcohol limit. This professional intervention establishes the factual basis for your suspicion and can greatly assist in building a strong case.
Once the police have verified the other driver’s impairment, they can arrest them. This action prevents the potentially intoxicated driver from causing further harm on the road and lays the foundation for a DWI injury accident claim. Prosecutors can actively criminal proceedings against the impaired driver. These official charges provide a legal framework to support a comprehensive financial recovery process after the accident.
Medical Providers in the Houston Area for People Injured by a Drunk Driver
Getting medical care after getting hit by a drunk driver is vital to your health and also a legal claim for compensation after the injury accident. Here are some of the local hospitals with 24-hour emergency rooms.
Houston Area Hospitals
Houston Methodist Medical Center
HCA Houston Healthcare Cypress
HCA Houston Healthcare Medical Center
Kindred Hospital Medical Center
What are the Consequences of Texas Drunk Driving?
Texas law defines a drunk driving offense as having a blood alcohol content of .08 or more or not having the normal use of your mental and physical faculties due to drug or alcohol use. The consequences of Texas drunk driving can have significant impacts on both the criminal and civil fronts.
When it comes to the criminal and legal consequences of driving under the influence, individuals can face charges for DUI or DWI. If convicted, they may be subjected to hefty fines, imprisonment, and the suspension of their driver’s license. The severity of these penalties depends on prior incidents and convictions, with a third DWI being classified as a felony that often leads to prison time. These criminal charges aim to hold drunk drivers accountable for their actions and deter others from engaging in similar behavior.
The potential for exemplary damages, also known as punitive damages, sets most DUI accident claims apart. These damages serve as a form of punishment and are frequently sought by experienced drunk driving accident lawyers on behalf of the victims. Insurance companies take these claims seriously due to the higher value associated with drunk driving accidents and the potential for punitive damages.
What is Bentley’s Law?
Bentley’s Law, implemented in Texas in September 2023, is legislation that mandates individuals convicted of intoxicated manslaughter while operating a motor vehicle to provide financial support, also known as child support, to any surviving minors who were dependents of the victim.
This law aims to ensure that the responsibility of caring for the children left behind by the deceased falls upon the convicted individual, emphasizing their accountability for the tragic consequences of driving under the influence after being served alcohol.
Contact a Drunk Driving Accident Attorney at Baumgartner Law Firm for Help
To schedule a free consultation with an expert drunk driving accident lawyer in Houston, contact our team anytime or night. We are available to assist you, ensuring that you can access the legal support you need when you need it. Best of all, there are no costs associated with this initial consultation. If you decide to hire our personal injury law firm, you won’t be required to make any upfront payments. You will only be asked to pay for our legal representation once we have successfully won your case.
Contact us for a free consultation or call (281) 587-1111.
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy, Houston, TX, 77069
Houston Drunk Driving Accident FAQ
How do I report a drunk driver in Houston?
The Texas Department of Public Safety has established a special hotline for reporting a drunk driver. Call 1 (800) 525-5555 to report a suspected drunk driver or if you are stranded on the side of the road.
Your call can be anonymous and may save a life. If you suspect a drunk driver- report it!
Read more: How to Report a Drunk Driver in Houston
How much can I sue for after getting hit by a drunk driver in Texas?
There are no limits on the amount of acutal damages you can seek for personal injury or wrongful death in Texas. Punitive or punishment damages are limited by law in Texas. Contact Baumgartner Law Firm for a consultation about your rights and options after a DUI injury accident.
How many drunk driving injuries or deaths occur in Houston, Texas, each year?
In Houston and throughout Harris County, drunk driving continues to pose a significant problem, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (Texas DOT), in 2022 alone, a staggering 1,163 people lost their lives in car accidents where a driver was under the influence of alcohol. This alarming statistic underscores the severity of the issue and highlights the urgent need for action.
Furthermore, it is disheartening to note that one-fourth of all fatal accidents in Texas last year involved a drunk driver. These incidents cause immeasurable pain and suffering and profoundly impact the community. Houston, in particular, bears the brunt of this problem, witnessing the highest number of DWI injuries and fatal accidents in the state.
In 2021, Harris County reported a staggering 2,261 injuries or suspected injuries in DUI accidents. This figure serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that result from the irresponsible choice to get behind the wheel while intoxicated.
These statistics paint a grim picture of the prevalence of drunk driving in Houston and highlight the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address this issue. Individuals, law enforcement agencies, and the community must work together to combat this dangerous behavior and ensure the safety of our roads and residents' well-being.
What should I do if I get hit by a drunk driver?
Here are the steps to take if you have been involved in an accident with a drunk driver.
- Ensure you are safe- Move to a safe location away from traffic and call the police.
- Get medical care- if you are hurt.
- Obtain evidence at the scene- take photographs or video, if you can do so safely—vehicles, skid marks, traffic signs, and other relevant details that may help your case.
- Exchange information with the other driver.
- Identify any witnesses and document their contact information.
- Hire an experienced personal injury lawyer in Houston to handle your DWI injury case.
See our car accident checklist.
How does an arrest for DWI impact the compensation I can get?
If the person who hit you is arrested for DWI, the odds of your case requiring a trial drop substantially. Insurance companies know Harris County juries have little patience for drunk drivers. An arrest for DWI or intoxicated manslaughter often delay a civil case. The evidence gathered by the police can help enhance your damages when the criminal case is over.
While a lawsuit may be required to get the adjuster’s attention, most insurance companies understand the risks to them and their insured if a jury decides the case. Call Baumgartner Law Firm to maximize your injury accident compensation.
Should I Speak With the Adjuster for the Drunk Driver?
No- nothing good can come from giving a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster. What you say will not help you and certainly can hurt your case. Call an attorney and let them be your spokesperson.
What steps should DWI accident victims take to seek compensation for their injuries?
As a drunk driving victim, seeking compensation for your injuries is a crucial step towards financial recovery. While it may not be an automatic process, there are steps you can take to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. In such complex and challenging situations, contacting experienced personal injury lawyers who specialize in handling drunk driving cases is highly recommended. Our top-rated personal injury lawyers are here to guide you through this process and answer any questions you may have about your rights and the next steps to take.
One of the essential elements in seeking compensation is providing objective findings from your doctors. These medical reports will help establish the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life. Additionally, the total amount of your medical bills and lost wages will be considered when determining the compensation you may be entitled to. It is important to gather all the necessary documentation to support your claim.
Another crucial factor that can influence the value of your case is the available insurance coverage. In drunk driving cases, there may be a potential for punitive damages, which can significantly increase the value of your claim. Our experienced attorneys will thoroughly assess the insurance coverage and work to achieve maximum compensation for your specific circumstances.
Our top-rated personal injury lawyers have a proven track record of successfully representing drunk driving victims and securing fair and just compensation for their injuries. We take pride in our commitment to providing compassionate support and expert legal advice throughout the process.
If you have any questions about your rights or the next steps, we encourage you to contact our team for a case evaluation. We are here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Don't hesitate to contact us today.
What information should you get from witnesses at the crash scene?
When waiting at the crash scene, gathering as much information as possible from other motorists involved or witnesses who stopped is crucial. This information can greatly aid in documenting the incident. To ensure thoroughness, collect details such as the names and contact information of individuals involved, including passengers, and any available insurance information.
Additionally, learn any eyewitness accounts of what they saw. It is important to ask for a detailed account of what they witnessed, including the events leading up to the crash. Visual evidence can also be invaluable, so take photos of the vehicles involved, their positions, damages sustained, and the surroundings. By diligently gathering this comprehensive information, you will have a good account of the incident, which can assist with insurance claims and your injury claims.
What steps should you take if you believe the driver who caused your accident was drunk in Houston?
If you suspect that the driver who caused your accident in Houston was under the influence of alcohol, it is important to take the following steps:
- Assess the driver's behavior: Pay attention to any signs of impairment like stumbling, slurred speech, bloodshot or watery eyes, and the smell of alcohol. These indicators can help establish the driver's potential intoxication.
- Contact the authorities: Immediately call the police to report the accident, particularly if you believe the driver is intoxicated. Law enforcement officers can conduct sobriety and breathalyzer tests to determine if the driver is impaired. If they confirm intoxication, the driver may face criminal charges and be apprehended at the scene.
- Prioritize medical attention: Your well-being should always come first, regardless of the circumstances. If needed, seek immediate medical attention by calling an ambulance to evaluate your injuries and provide necessary treatment. Even if emergency transportation isn't necessary, visiting a healthcare professional for a comprehensive assessment is advisable. Prompt medical attention can help with your recovery process and increase the compensation you are entitled to.
- Gather information: Collect as much information as possible from other motorists involved in the accident or witnesses who stopped at the scene. Take note of their contact details, insurance information, and statements regarding the incident. Documenting the scene through photographs can be valuable in supporting your claim. Capture images of the vehicles involved, relevant road conditions, and other relevant details.
- Report the incident to your insurance company: Immediately notify your insurance provider about the accident. Provide them with accurate and detailed information regarding your suspicion of the other driver being under the influence of alcohol. They can guide you through the claims process and may require the information you gathered at the scene.
- Consult a qualified Houston DWI accident attorney: Once you have spoken to the police, received medical attention, and are in a more stable state of mind, it is crucial to contact an experienced attorney who specializes in DWI accidents. They can offer guidance and explore legal options to protect your rights, seek compensation, and potentially hold the intoxicated driver accountable for their actions.
By taking these comprehensive steps, you can protect your legal rights, gather necessary evidence, and potentially secure the compensation you deserve when involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver in Houston.
What types of crashes are commonly caused by impaired drivers?
Impaired drivers cause a range of collisions due to their erratic nature and compromised ability to operate a vehicle safely. The following types of crashes are commonly caused by drivers who are under the influence of alcohol:
- Head-on collisions: One of the most dangerous types of crashes caused by drunk drivers is head-on collisions. These occur when a drunk driver travels in the wrong direction on the road or when they veer across a double-yellow line, resulting in a high-risk situation where they collide with an oncoming vehicle.
- Rear-end collisions: Impaired drivers often struggle to maintain proper attention on the road, making them more prone to missing traffic slowing down or stopping ahead of them. As a result, they may crash into the back of other vehicles, causing rear-end collisions. While some may dismiss these crashes as minor fender-benders, they have the potential to cause severe injuries.
- Rollover crashes: Drunk drivers frequently misjudge their speeds while taking turns, make unsafe lane changes, or overcorrect mistakes while driving. These actions can lead to losing control of their vehicle, resulting in rollover crashes. Not only can the intoxicated driver's vehicle become involved in a rollover accident, but they can also collide with other vehicles or trigger chain-reaction crashes that harm innocent motorists.
- T-bone accidents: Intoxicated drivers often run stop signs and red lights. Disregarding the traffic signal leads to T-bone accidents that are often deadly.
It is important to note that regardless of the specific type of collision, any situation involving a drunk driver in Houston has the potential to cause serious injuries to unsuspecting individuals sharing the road.
What should I look for in a Houston DWI accident attorney?
If you need a Houston DWI accident attorney, finding someone who can provide the expertise and support you require is crucial. At Baumgartner Law Firm, we have been assisting victims of drunk drivers for over 35 years, and our track record remains undefeated.
When searching for a DWI accident attorney, experience is key. Our preeminent rated personal injury attorney, Greg Baumgartner, possesses the knowledge and skills to handle these cases effectively. With his extensive experience, he has won many multi-million dollar drunk driving accident cases.
In addition to experience, we understand the importance of gathering evidence to establish liability and win your case proactively. Our team is committed to collecting the necessary evidence to build a strong defense on your behalf. We believe in fighting tirelessly for our clients, treating them with compassion and empathy throughout the legal process.
At Baumgartner Law Firm, we prioritize your best interests. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't have to worry about upfront costs. You only pay if we win your case, ensuring our dedication and motivation to achieve a successful outcome.
If you seek a Houston DWI accident attorney, we invite you to contact us for a free consultation. Call (281) 587-1111 today to schedule your consultation with attorney Greg Baumgartner, and let us provide you with the comprehensive assistance you need to navigate the complexities of your DWI accident claim.
Texas DWI Accident Infographic
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