Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
40 Years of Experience- Hundreds of Millions Won
No Fees Unless We Win
Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Available 24/7 - Free Consultation
If a drunk driver hit you, you’re dealing with physical pain, mounting medical bills, and anger at someone’s reckless choice. You deserve full compensation—and we’ve spent 40 years making drunk drivers pay.
Baumgartner Law Firm has NEVER lost a drunk driving accident case.
We’ve recovered hundreds of millions for victims across Houston and Harris County.
Call Houston’s undefeated drunk driving victim lawyer: (281) 587-1111.
We specialize in maximum compensation through aggressive litigation and proven strategies that hold drunk drivers accountable. Harris County juries consistently award our clients substantial verdicts, including punitive damages that punish reckless behavior.
In addition to our expertise in drunk driving accidents, our Houston car accident attorneys have extensive experience handling complex cases and fighting to protect your legal rights and secure fair compensation.
Consulting a top-rated Houston personal injury law firm provides you with local expertise and guidance tailored to Houston residents, ensuring your rights are protected under Texas law. Our firm offers complimentary consultations, allowing potential clients to understand their legal options, ask questions, and assess their case with no financial obligation.
Harris County Leads the Nation in DWI Deaths.
We Make Drunk Drivers Pay.
In Harris County alone, 3,357 drunk driving crashes injured nearly 1,900 people last year. If you’re reading this, you or someone you love has become part of this devastating statistic. Now you’re facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and pain that won’t go away.
The drunk driver might walk away with a ticket. You’re left with the wreckage.
Here’s what makes us different:
- ✓ 100% Success Rate – Never lost a drunk driving case since 1985
- ✓ Millions Recovered – Average settlements 3x higher than typical accidents
- ✓ We Sue Bars Too – Texas Dram Shop experts hold ALL responsible parties accountable
- ✓ No Recovery = No Fee – We advance all costs, you pay nothing upfront
- ✓ 24/7 Availability – Because drunk driving crashes don’t follow business hours
Contact an experienced drunk driving accident lawyer in Houston for a FREE CONSULTATION. (281) 587-1111
For a FREE Consultation Contact Us Today
"*" indicates required fields
ABOUT GREG BAUMGARTNER
Experienced Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Fighting for Maximum Compensation
Why Houston Victims Choose Us:
- 40+ Years Fighting Drunk Drivers
- Millions Recovered in Punitive Damages
- 10.0 AVVO Rating Perfect Score
- Dual Law Degrees (Less than 1% of Attorneys)
- Trial Lawyers College Graduate
- Serving The Greater Houston Area
- Super Lawyers, Many Years Running
Google Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9/5
- Never lost a drunk driving case since 1985
- Recovered millions for injured Texans
- We sue bars under Texas Dram Shop laws
- You pay nothing unless we win
Call Now (281) 587-1111 or Schedule a Free Case Consultation.
Lead Trial Lawyer at Baumgartner Law Firm
What Compensation Can a Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Recover?
When you seek compensation in a drunk driving lawsuit, it’s important to have clear medical reports from your doctors. These medical records will assess the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life. Victims may suffer from chronic pain, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries, which can have long-lasting effects on their quality of life and require ongoing medical care.
Importance of Your Medical Records
Our drunk driving accident lawyer in Houston will collect all your medical and hospital bills, along with proof of lost wages, as these will be considered when determining the compensation you may be entitled to receive. In a car accident lawsuit, thorough medical documentation and details about the types of injuries sustained are crucial evidence for your claim.
Insurance Coverage
Another important factor is the available insurance coverage. Our Houston DUI collision lawyer will review your insurance policy to determine if you have extra coverage available for your claim. The process of filing car accident claims can be complex, and having legal guidance is vital to ensure all necessary steps are taken.
Punitive Damages
In drunk driving cases, you might also get punitive damages as part of your accident claim. These extra payments are intended to compensate for the drunk driver’s actions, thereby increasing the value of your claim.
Compensation may also include personal injury damages, which cover a range of harms and expenses related to your injuries.
Our top-rated personal injury lawyers in Houston have a strong record of helping drunk driving victims get the full compensation they deserve.
We Fight for Maximum Compensation
We are experienced in handling insurance claims and can help ensure you receive proper compensation from the insurance company. After a car crash, legal support is essential to protect your rights and maximize your recovery. Working with an experienced car accident lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Compensation can address not only your financial losses but also the physical pain and suffering you have endured as a result of the accident.
We are committed to providing compassionate support and expert legal help throughout the process.
Types of Damages in Texas Drunk Driving Cases:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Disfigurement
- Permanent disability
- Mental anguish
We also often seek punitive damages to punish drunk drivers in DWI accident cases.
Our Houston DWI accident lawyer is skilled at identifying other potentially responsible parties, such as bars or clubs, that may also be liable.
We have never lost a DWI motor vehicle accident case and have recovered millions for our clients hit by drunk drivers.
Recent Houston DWI Accident Case Results-
Client Wins a $5 Million Settlement
Our client, who was stopped, was rear-ended by a drunk driver, causing serious injuries and leading to a car accident claim. He suffered a traumatic brain injury and took months to recover. The defense disputed the severity of his injuries. We filed a lawsuit and fought endlessly for full compensation. A Houston auto accident lawyer from our firm secured the settlement for our client.
The case settled right before a verdict.
Result: $5,000,000
Minor Injury DWI Injury Case Settlement-
Our client was injured in an accident while riding with a drunk driver. Her medical bills totaled $2,282.14 and her injuries were minor. We were able to secure a settlement for her of $ 80,000.
Settlement $80,000
Passengers Injured Driver Not Charged
We represented a husband and wife who were passengers of a drunk driver. The driver was not arrested, and no alcohol testing was done. We secured a settlement of $625,000 for the family.
Settlement $625,000
5 Star Houston Drunk Driver Accident Review
“My car was hit by a drunk driver nearly killing me. The driver then tried to leave the scene after leaving me in a coma. Greg Baumgartner was a big part of my recovery. He and his team made sure that I was taken care of and there was no way for the drunk driver to run from what he had done. He helped me heal by letting me concentrate on my recovery, finding me great doctors and handled all of the headache of the settlement. He got me more than I imagined possible to combat the medical bills piling up and the settlement has helped me these past years. My settlement will continue to help me for years to come. Even though the case has been settled he has kept in contact showing that he is truly concerned about his clients. He is a great lawyer and remains a great friend to this day. I would recommend him to anyone who is in need of help.”
Great Lawyer, New Friend | Client TR
FREE CONSULTATIONS
Contact the Undefeated Drunk Driving Accident Attorney in Houston with Decades of Expertise and a Proven Track Record
How a Houston DWI Accident Attorney Proves Your Case?
You might need to sue after a drunk driver hits you. Even if they get in trouble with the law, that doesn’t help you get money for your injuries. Drunk driving auto accidents often result in serious injury, requiring extensive medical care and legal action to secure fair compensation.
To get paid for your harm or for losing a family member, a lawyer may need to file a lawsuit for you. Litigation is often needed when drunk drivers cause crashes.
It is also important to obtain a police report after a drunk driving accident, as it helps establish fault and supports your personal injury claim.
While a criminal case can delay a civil lawsuit for damages, a guilty verdict can often help your case against the drunk driver. Even if the driver is not convicted, you can still file a civil lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries.
That’s where we come in. We sue drunk drivers!
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to seek compensation from your own insurance company.
When seeking compensation, you may face challenges dealing with the driver’s insurance company or the drunk driver’s insurance company, as they may try to minimize your claim or fail to cover all damages. It is important to understand your rights and consider legal advice before engaging with these insurance companies.
Speak with a top-rated Houston intoxicated driver accident lawyer in Houston. Call (281) 587-1111.
When our DUI accident lawyers in Houston handle your case, we will:
- Gather and preserve important evidence.
- Find out where the driver got drunk.
- Investigate your case and find witnesses.
- Ensure you receive the medical assistance you need.
- Consult with expert witnesses if necessary.
- Build a strong case.
- Handle all talks and negotiations with the insurance company. or insurance adjuster
- Take your case to court if needed.
We will also hire expert witnesses, such as toxicology, dram shop experts, life care planners, and accident reconstruction experts, to prove your case or show the extent of your injuries and damages. We front the cost of retaining expert witnesses and only reimburse those expenses if we win your case.
Most DWI or DUI injury accident lawsuits settle before going to trial. Studies of Texas jury verdicts show that people in Texas do not like drunk drivers in their communities.
Our Houston DUI accident lawyer will do whatever it takes to maximize your compensation. Call us for a free consultation at (281) 587-1111.
What Does It Cost to Hire a Drunk Driving Accident Attorney in Houston?
Every case we accept is handled on a contingency fee basis. There are no upfront charges or costs to you when you hire our car accident lawyer in Houston. We advance all claim and litigation expenses and only get paid for our work, as well as reimbursed for claim expenses, if we win your case. Our fees vary between 33/13% to 40% of the total recovery. All fees and expenses related to your personal injury case are deducted from the settlement or recovery.
What Can I Do If the Drunk Driver Did Not Have Insurance?
- Check your automobile insurance policy to see if you have uninsured motorist coverage, which can help cover medical bills and damages.
- If you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage, you may file a claim with the Texas Crime Victims’ Fund.
- Work with the DA to get restitution
- Determine if another party may be partly liable, like a bar or club.
If the drunk driver is insured, you may need to pursue compensation through the drunk driver’s insurance company. However, if the drunk driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may need to seek compensation through your own policy or explore other legal avenues.
What are the Consequences of Drunk Driving in Texas?
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 legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Texas is 0.08% for adult drivers, and exceeding this threshold can result in serious legal consequences.
The consequences of Texas drunk driving can have significant impacts on both the criminal and civil fronts.
Criminal Charges
A Houston drunk driver may face criminal charges, civil lawsuits from victims, substantial fines, jail time, and license suspension, reflecting the severe penalties imposed for such offenses.
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 face hefty fines, imprisonment, and the suspension of their driver’s license. The severity of these penalties depends on prior incidents and convictions; a third DWI is often classified as a felony, which can lead to prison time. These criminal charges aim to hold drunk drivers accountable for their actions and deter others from engaging in similar behavior.
Fatal DWI Accidents
If a drunk driver causes a fatal accident, the legal and financial consequences are even more severe. Texas law imposes significant liability for fatal accidents, including the possibility of facing wrongful death lawsuits and being responsible for damages such as financial support for surviving family members.
Exemplary Damages in Texas
In civil cases, a negligent driver who causes a drunk driving accident can be held liable for actual and possible punitive damages suffered by victims.
Drunk driving crashes have something many other car accidents don’t. This additional element is the possibility of exemplary, or punitive, damages. These damages come from the reckless act of driving while drunk.
Even though insurance coverage may not apply to punitive damages in Texas, a drunk driving accident case is valued substantially higher due to the potential of a significant jury verdict.
Read More: How a Criminal DWI is Different from a Drunk Driving Injury Case in Texas?
Here's How We Win Maximum Compensation In Drunk Driving Accident Cases
DWI Accident Expertise
When a drunk driver injures you, you don't need another law firm that "handles" DUI cases—you need specialists who've spent 40 years making drunk drivers pay maximum compensation. Contact the top-rated DWI collision attorney in Houston for help!
Undefeated Record in DWI Accident Cases
We have never lost a drunk driving accident case in over four decades. Not one. While other firms take any case that walks through the door, we focus exclusively on serious injury and wrongful death cases where drunk drivers destroyed lives.
We Go After Multiple Parties - Not Just the Driver
Most lawyers only sue the drunk driver. We investigate bars, restaurants, and clubs that over-served them. Our expertise in Texas dram shop law enables us to identify additional insurance coverage that other attorneys may overlook. This often doubles or triples your compensation.
We Front All Costs - You Pay Nothing Unless We Win
Proving drunk driving cases requires expensive expert witnesses: toxicologists, accident reconstruction, dram shop experts, and life care planners. Our Houston DUI injury law firm pays for everything up front. If we don't win your case, you owe us nothing.
Punitive Damages Expertise
Harris County juries despise drunk drivers—and we use that to your advantage. We've recovered millions in punitive damages designed to punish reckless behavior. These "punishment dollars" come on top of your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Immediate Action Team
When you call us, we don't wait. On severe injury or fatal accidents, our investigators typically visit the accident scene within 24-48 hours, interview witnesses while their memories are still fresh, and preserve critical evidence before it disappears. We've learned that the first 72 hours can make or break a drunk driving case.
No Cookie-Cutter Approach
High-volume firms handle hundreds of cases with paralegals doing most of the work. We're selective, taking only serious injury and wrongful death cases where drunk drivers caused catastrophic harm. Your case gets partner-level attention from day one.
Proven Results
At Baumgartner Law Firm, we have handled hundreds of Houston drunk driving cases, including many serious drunk driving car accident cases where victims suffered severe injuries due to intoxicated drivers. We have won many multi-million-dollar results for our clients.
The difference isn’t just experience—it’s results. Our Houston drunk driving accident lawyer has been maximizing victims’ compensation in driving accident cases for decades.
Call for your free consultation: (281) 587-1111
Why Drunk Driving Settlements Are Higher Than Other Car Accident Injury Claims
If a drunk driver hurts you, you’ll likely get more money than in other car accident cases. Harris County juries tend to award higher amounts when drunk drivers are involved. Settlements achieved by a top Houston drunk driving accident lawyer are often higher than those in typical car accident cases due to the reckless behavior involved. You can also ask for punitive damages, which can make the other party pay much more.
In these situations, filing a personal injury lawsuit can help victims recover damages and hold negligent parties accountable.
In car accident lawsuits, factors such as the severity of injuries, evidence of negligence, and whether the at-fault driver was intoxicated can all influence the settlement amount.
Who Can Be Liable for DWI Accidents?
When looking into a DWI crash, our legal team at Baumgartner Law Firm focuses first on building a personal injury or wrongful death case. In any traffic accident, determining liability and fault is crucial for a successful claim. We also check if other parties share blame for the injuries. Our drunk driving lawyers work to find all who may be at fault for the accident. Potential defendants include bars and clubs that may have overserved the intoxicated driver.
After a DWI injury accident, it is important to file an insurance claim to seek compensation for your losses as soon as possible. The DWI accident attorney at Baumgartner Law Firm pursues compensation from the drunk driver’s insurance company and other responsible parties, holding those at fault legally responsible and seeking damages for our clients.
Bars, Clubs, and Social Hosts- Dram Shop
Texas law can hold places that serve alcohol liable for injuries caused by drunk drivers they served. Bars, restaurants, and other alcohol sellers may be responsible if they serve minors or visibly drunk people. Social hosts who give alcohol to minors can also be liable. For these third parties to be held accountable, the injuries must be a foreseeable result of the person's drunkenness. These "dram shop" claims can be tough to win. However, our lawyers have won many major lawsuits against bars.
Employers and Others Negligently Entrusting the Vehicle
If you loan your car to a drunk driver, you might be held liable in a personal injury case. This is called negligent entrustment. At Baumgartner Law Office, our DUI accident lawyer in Houston has won cases against employers who gave company cars to dangerous or drunk drivers. 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, especially if you think the other driver is drunk, is very important for several reasons:
- Quick Response: Police officers can arrive quickly and perform tests such as field sobriety and breathalyzer tests to determine whether the driver is drunk.
- Proof of Impairment: The police can gather evidence that proves the driver was impaired, which is crucial for building a strong case.
- Arresting the Driver: If the police determine the driver is drunk, they can arrest them, preventing them from causing more harm on the road.
- Legal Support: An arrest provides a solid legal basis for a DWI injury claim and can help you get the compensation you deserve.
- Criminal Charges: Prosecutors can use the evidence gathered by the police to press charges against the impaired driver, supporting your case for financial recovery after the accident.
Why You Should Get Medical Care After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver
Getting medical care after getting hit by a drunk driver is vital to your health, and receiving appropriate medical treatment and follow-up care is essential for supporting your legal claim for compensation after the injury. Here are some of the local Houston hospitals with 24-hour emergency rooms.
Call an Award-Winning Drunk Driving Accident
Attorney in Houston for Help
Talk with a top-rated Drunk Driving accident lawyer by calling (281) 587-1111
Fill out an online consultation request for a FREE consultation.
Texas Drunk Driving Accident Statistics
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, many car accidents in Texas are related to drunk driving, highlighting the scale of the problem.
Total DUI-Related Crashes
Texas recorded a rise in personal injury cases related to car accidents this year. 22,737 DUI-alcohol-related crashes in 2024. These include all reported crashes where a driver was under the influence of alcohol, from minor incidents to fatal wrecks.
Fatalities
There were 1,053 deaths caused by drunk driving crashes statewide in 2024. On average, this equates to roughly three lives lost every day due to an impaired driver on Texas roads. DUI-related fatalities made up about one-quarter of all traffic deaths in Texas last year.
Injuries
Alcohol-related crashes resulted in approximately 13,500 people being injured across Texas in 2024.
Houston DWI Accident Statistics
Total Crashes (Houston Area)
In the Houston area, drunk driving remains a serious concern. Harris County (which encompasses Houston) saw 3,357 DUI-related crashes in 2024 – the highest for any county in Texas.
Fatalities
Drunk driving claimed 165 lives in Harris County in 2024. This tragically high number affirms Houston’s longstanding struggle with impaired driving.
Houston and Harris County Injuries by Drunk Drivers
DWI crashes in Harris County Texas recorded a significant number of car wrecks, injuring nearly 1,900 people in 2024.
Houston Drunk Driving Accident FAQs
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. In case of an auto accident, call 911 immediately for assistance.
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 a Drunk Driver For?
There are no limits on the amount of actual damages you can seek for personal injury or wrongful death in Texas.
Car accident victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, emotional distress, physical impairment, and future medical care resulting from the accident.
Punitive damages 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.
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 how to minimize payouts in personal injury claims, so having a lawyer is essential. 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.
Can I Get Punitive Damages in My Drunk Driving Accident Case?
Courts may award punitive damages in personal injury cases to punish wrongdoers. These damages are fitting for lawsuits against drunk drivers. Only reckless acts like drunk driving warrant punitive damages. Our law firm has won punitive damages in many cases against drunk drivers.
Should I Accept the Drunk Driver's Insurance Company's First Settlement Offer?
No. Insurance adjusters often contact victims within 24-48 hours, offering quick settlements—sometimes before you even know the full extent of your injuries. These initial offers are typically 10-20% of what your case is actually worth. Once you accept and sign a release, you cannot reopen your claim even if you discover serious injuries later. Always consult a drunk driving accident lawyer before accepting any settlement offer.
How Much is My DWI Accident Case Worth in Houston?
Car accident cases involving a drunk driver are worth more than a typical car accident not involving alcohol. How much your case is worth depends upon how much insurance coverage is available, how bad your injuries are, and who you hire to represent you in the case. For minor injuries and little medical bills, the settlement may be in the tens of thousands. For a serious injury with a lot of insurance, your case could be in the millions.
What Should I Do Immediately After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver in Houston?
After a car accident in Texas, you are legally required to stop at the scene of the accident. We recommend you always report the accident to the police. We also recommend that you document the scene by using your phone to take pictures and video of the damage and the crash site. You should obtain contact information from any witness. Call an experienced car accident lawyer near you.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit Against an Intoxicated Driver in Texas?
Texas has a statute of limitations that requires you to file a lawsuit within two years from the date of the accident to preserve your rights. However, do not wait if a drunk driver has injured you; act quickly and contact an experienced injury attorney as soon as you can.
Can I Sue if the Drunk Driver Wasn't Arrested?
Yes, there are situations where, for one reason or another, a drinking driver is not arrested or not charged by the police. While this does not affect your right to sue, it can make proving intoxication more difficult.
What If I Was a Passenger in The Drunk Driver's Car? Can I Still Sue?
Yes. Even if you were riding with the drunk driver, you can still recover compensation. However, the defense may argue you share some fault if you knew the driver was intoxicated before getting in the vehicle. Texas law allows you to recover damages even if you're partially at fault, but your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. We've successfully recovered huge settlements for passengers injured by drunk drivers they were riding with.
Complimentary DUI Accident Case Consultations
Drunk driving crashes can lead to big payouts. Taking the right steps after being hurt by a drunk driver helps you get the most money. Call Baumgartner Law Firm for a free talk about any Houston drunk driving injury case. You won’t be under any duty to hire us. Call (281) 587-1111 to get your free consultation.
Here’s What Our Drunk Driving Accident Clients are Saying
Contact a Top-Rated Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer For a Free Case Evaluation
Baumgartner Law Firm
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy
Houston, Texas 77069
(281) 587-1111
Related Resources
- The Cost of a DUI
- Real-life Examples of Drunk Driving Accident Settlements
- Calculating a DUI Accident Settlement: A Comprehensive Guide
- How to Report a Drunk Driver in Houston
- I Got Hit By A Drunk Driver: What Am I Entitled To?
- Legal Alcohol Limit in Texas
- Rights as a Passenger in a DWI / DUI Crash in Texas
Related Posts
- What Is The Average Settlement For A Hit By Drunk Driver Case?
- Why You Need a DWI Accident Lawyer After an Alcohol-Related Crash
- How a DWI Charge Impacts a Car Accident Case in Houston
- What Should I Do If a Drunk Driver Hits Me?
- The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
- Real-life Examples of Drunk Driving Accident Settlements
- Guide to Hiring a Drunk Driivng Accident Lawyer
NEED HELP? HAVE QUESTIONS?
"*" indicates required fields
“We will answer you within 24 hours via email or you can call us directly, we are always ready to serve. Thank “
