People get behind the wheel daily after consuming alcohol, putting themselves and others at risk. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021, 13,384 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, accounting for 28% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States. Why you may need a Houston DWI injury lawyer?
Harris County, Texas, has the most alcohol-related accidents in the state.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an alcohol-related crash, you may wonder if and why you need a drunk driving accident lawyer. Houston DUI injury lawyer Greg Baumgartner will discuss why having a lawyer on your side is crucial after an alcohol-related crash and how they can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Why You Need a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Experience and Expertise in Drunk Driving Cases
A drunk driving accident lawyer has experience and expertise in handling cases involving alcohol-related crashes. They understand the laws and regulations surrounding these accidents and know how to navigate the legal system to get the best possible outcome for their clients.
They also deeply understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a drunk driving accident can have on a victim and their family. This knowledge allows them to provide compassionate and effective representation for their clients.
The Criminal DWI Case Is Different From Your Civil Damages Case
The criminal case of the drunk driver is separate from your case for damages they caused in the wreck. Getting help to obtain evidence from the police and gathering your proof must be a priority.
Taking action independent from the police should be done as soon as possible to protect your claims.
While the drunk driver may face jail time, or incur the heavy costs of a DWI, that does not help you get the compensation you deserve.
Investigation and Gathering Evidence
It’s crucial to thoroughly investigate and gather all the necessary evidence to build a strong case. A drunk driving accident lawyer has the resources and expertise to conduct a comprehensive investigation, including obtaining police reports, interviewing witnesses, preserving the testing of the blood alcohol level, and gathering any other evidence that may be relevant to your case.
One vital part of a DWI accident investigation can be where the person was drinking. Is there enough evidence to sue a bar or club under the Texas Dram shop law?
We can also work with accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause of the accident and who is at fault. This information is crucial in proving negligence and holding the responsible party accountable for their actions.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
After an alcohol-related crash, you may be contacted by the at-fault driver’s insurance company. It’s important to remember that insurance companies are businesses whose main goal is to minimize costs and protect profits.
A drunk driving accident lawyer can handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf. They have experience dealing with insurance companies and know how to negotiate for a fair settlement covering all your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Fighting for Your Rights and Fair Compensation
A drunk driving accident lawyer is your advocate and will fight for your rights and fair compensation. They will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
They can also help you understand your legal options and guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected at every step. Average settlements for drunk driving cases are higher than other car wreck cases.
How a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help You
Proving Negligence
To have a successful case, proving that the other driver was negligent is crucial. This means showing that they were driving under the influence of alcohol and that this directly caused the accident and your injuries.
A drunk driving accident lawyer can gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and breathalyzer test results, to prove that the other driver was intoxicated at the time of the accident.
Calculating Damages
In addition to proving negligence, a drunk driving accident lawyer can help you calculate the damages you are entitled to. This includes both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages are tangible losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages are intangible losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life.
A drunk driving accident lawyer can help you determine the full extent of your damages and ensure you are fairly compensated for all your losses. Because in Texas, it may be possible to get punitive damages, your case may be worth more than you think.
Representing You in Court
While most personal injury cases are settled outside of court, there are times when a trial is necessary to get the compensation you deserve. Having a drunk driving accident lawyer on your side is crucial.
They will represent you in court, presenting evidence and arguments to support your case and fight for your rights. They will also handle all communication with the court and the other party’s legal team, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Real-World Examples of Drunk Driving Accident Cases at Baumgartner Law Firm
Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
In 2019, a drunk driver in Houston, Texas, caused a rear-end collision that injured a young man. The driver had a blood alcohol concentration of more than twice the legal limit.
The victim hired a Houston drunk driving accident lawyer, Greg Baumgartner, to represent them in a personal injury lawsuit. Our DWI lawyer proved the driver was negligent and obtained a multi-million dollar settlement.
DWI / DUI Accident Lawyer in Houston
Recently, a mother hired Baumgartner Law Firm after an adult son was hit by a drunk driver and killed. After litigation but before trial, the insurance companies tendered their policy limits to settle the case (7-figure settlement).
Check out some of our recent results.
How to Choose the Right Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
When choosing a drunk driving accident lawyer in Houston, it’s important to research and find someone with experience and a track record of success in handling these types of cases.
You should also look for a compassionate and understanding lawyer and someone who is a strong advocate for their clients. Finding a lawyer willing to fight for your rights and fair compensation is also important, even if that means going to trial.
Contact the DWI Injury Lawyers at Baumgartner Law Firm in Houston for Help!
If you or a loved one has been involved in an alcohol-related crash, having a drunk driving accident lawyer on your side is crucial. They can help you navigate the legal system, gather evidence, and fight for your rights and fair compensation.
Don’t wait to seek legal representation after an alcohol-related crash. Contact a drunk driving accident lawyer today to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options.
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy, Houston, TX, 77069
(281) 587-1111
DWI Accident Resources?
Real-life Examples of Drunk Driving Accident Settlements