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 intoxicated 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. Our personal injury firm has recovered millions of dollars for people hit by drunk drivers and also other cases like wrongful death cases, brain injury, truck accident injuries, motorcycle accidents, and more.
What Damages Can I Get in a Drunk Driving 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 while intoxicated accident in Texas include:
- Medical expenses.
- Disfigurement.
- Disability.
Also, punitive damages are punishment damages the intoxicated driving accident lawyers at our firm frequently seek for DWI accident victims in DWI 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 a Drunk Driver for Compensation?
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.
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.
That is where we can help. We sue drunk drivers!
When Our Houston drunk driving accident lawyers handle your intoxicated 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.
We will also retain expert witnesses if needed to prove your case or show the extent of your injuries and damages. Some of the experts we retain include toxicology experts, dram shop experts, life car planners, and accident reconstructionists.
Most DWI or DUI injury accident lawsuits settle before trial. Studies of Texas jury verdicts show that folks in the Lone Star state do not like drunk drivers in their communities.
Our Houston drunk driving accident lawyer will do whatever is needed to maximize your compensation. Call for a free consultation. (281) 587-1111.
Baumgartner Law Firm Drunk Driving Litigation Expertise?
- 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.
- Our drunk driving accident lawyer in Houston is skilled at maximizing your compensation from the insurance company.
- A consultation with one of our experienced drunk driving accident attorneys is free! Call (281) 587-1111.
- 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 office, we have handled hundreds of Houston drunk driving cases, recovered many multi-million dollar results for our clients, and never lost an intoxicated driving case. If you were in an accident caused by an intoxicated driver, call Baumgartner Legal Agency.
How Much Can You Get Paid if a Drunk Driver Injures You?
Compensation for personal injury or wrongful death claims that involve an
intoxicated driver is enhanced and usually substantially exceeds the
compensation for the same crash without a driver under the influence.
The reason damages are enhanced is twofold. First, Harris County juries have
historically awarded significant damages when a drunk driver is responsible.
Also, by seeking punitive damages, the risk of a verdict to the defendant
increases exponentially.
Here are some of the damages you can get:
Who Can Be Liable for DWI 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 or cause an accident. Our drunk driving accident lawyers focus on finding everyone who may share responsibility for a DWI 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 easy, yet our drunk driving accident lawyers have won many notable lawsuits against bars.
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 Office, 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.
What Can I Do If the Drunk Driver Did Not Have Insurance?
Unfortunately, there are many instances of drunk drivers who do not have liability coverage for the wreck. In this situation, you have few options for paying for your injuries and damages. The first option is to look at your automobile insurance policy to see if you have uninsured motorist insurance coverage on your policy. If you do not have uninsured motorist coverage, you may look to file a claim with the Texas Crime Victim’s Fund.
Finally, there may be situations where another, such as a bar, employer, or vehicle owner, may be held legally responsible for the accident. Contacting a Houston drunk driving accident attorney to explore your rights and options is recommended.
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 incident 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 offence 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 incident claims apart, particularly when filing a claim with the drunk driver’s insurance company. These damages serve as a form of punishment and are frequently sought by experienced DWI lawyers on behalf of the victims. Insurance companies take these claims seriously due to the higher value associated with drunk driving mishaps 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 Lawyer at Baumgartner Law Office for Help
To schedule a cost-free discussion with an expert intoxicated 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
Texas DWI Accident Infographic
We Offer a Free Case Consultation Call (281) 587-1111
If you have a personal injury case and would like to know if our personal injury lawyer can help, fill out the form below, chat with us or call us at (281) 587-1111. Speak with a top-rated personal injury attorney with over 35 years of experience and learn your rights and options.
Drunk Driving Accident FAQ’s
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
There are no limits on the amount of actual damages you can seek for personal injury or wrongful death in Texas. Punitive are punishment damages that are limited by law in Texas. Contact Baumgartner Law Firm for a consultation about your rights and options after a DUI injury accident. Call us today at (281) 587-1111.
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.
One-fourth of all fatal accidents in Texas last year involved a drunk driver. 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
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.
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 delays 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. (281) 587-1111.
Punitive damages are punishment damages appropriate for lawsuits against drunk drivers. Only outrageous or reckless conduct like driving drunk are appropriate punitive damages. Our law firm has obtained punitive damages in countless cases against drunk drivers.
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. We offer a free consultation- Call (281) 587-1111.
About Our Personal Injury Law Firm
Baumgartner Law Firm was founded in 1985 with the mission of providing the best possible representation for accident victims. We are based in Houston and take great pride in our personal service. Our award-winning and national recognized attorney handles in the greater Houston area, including car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, injury at a daycare and wrongful death cases and other kinds of injury claims.
For more information about our law firm see our firm page.
Visit Our Personal Injury Law Firm
Houston, TX
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy, Houston, TX, 77069
Hours: Open 24/7 Everyday
(281) 587-1111
For a free consultation Contact Us Today
Related
Practice Areas
Client
Testimonials
Thank you
for a job well done!
"I can never express how grateful me and my family are to Greg Baumgartner and his team of truck accident lawyers in Houston. He took care of our injury case and got us a great settlement. Thank you for a job well done!"
- R. G. Client
Houston Personal Injury Victim
Highly
Recommended!
"I was hit in the rear by an 18 wheeler and was lucky enough to have found Greg – I was overjoyed with the results and highly recommend him."
- Raymond
Houston Personal Injury Victim
CONTACT US TODAY
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION!