Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers

Drunk driving accidents are a big problem in Houston, Texas and cause hundreds of injuries and fatalities every year. When a driver decides to get behind the wheel drunk, they put themselves and everyone else on the road in danger. This article will look at the stats, consequences and legal implications of drunk driving accidents in Houston.

The Numbers

Houston, the biggest city in Texas and 4th biggest in the US, has a big drunk driving problem. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2020 there were 1,134 alcohol related crashes in Houston, 75 fatalities and 172 serious injuries.

These numbers are scary, but they only tell part of the story. The emotional, physical and financial impact on victims and their families is incalculable.

Consequences of Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving accidents can result in severe injuries because the impaired driver can’t react fast or make good decisions. Some common injuries from drunk driving accidents are:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Lacerations and contusions
• Whiplash and other neck injuries

In addition to physical injuries, drunk driving accident victims may suffer emotional trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression. The financial impact can be huge with mounting medical bills, lost wages and property damage.

Legal Consequences for Drunk Drivers in Houston

In Texas, it’s illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. But you can still be charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) if your BAC is below 0.08% but you’re impaired by alcohol or drugs.

DWI penalties in Texas can be:

• Fines up to $10,000
• Jail time 3 days to 10 years depending on the number of offenses
• License suspension or revocation
• Mandatory ignition interlock device
• Completion of a DWI education program

In addition to criminal penalties, drunk drivers can be sued civilly for the damages and injuries they cause. Victims of drunk driving accidents can recover for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages.

Dram Shop Liability in Texas

In some cases, establishments that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated people who later cause accidents can be held liable under Texas’ dram shop laws. To sue a bar, restaurant or other establishment, the victim must prove:

1. The establishment served alcohol to an obviously intoxicated person, and

2. The intoxicated person’s consumption of the alcohol was the proximate cause of the injuries.

An experienced Houston drunk driving accident attorney can help you investigate the facts of the case and determine if dram shop liability applies to your case.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Drunk Driving Accident in Houston

If you or a loved one has been in a drunk driving accident in Houston, do:

1. Get medical attention right away even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured.

2. Call the police and make sure a report is filed.

3. Collect evidence, including photos of the scene, witness contact info and the drunk driver’s info.

4. Call an experienced Houston drunk driving accident attorney to talk to.

How a Houston Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Can Help

An experienced Houston drunk driving accident attorney can help you through the legal process and get you the compensation you’re entitled to. An attorney can:

• Investigate the accident and get evidence for your case
• Identify all liable parties, the drunk driver and any establishment that served them too much to drink
• Negotiate with insurance companies for you
• Represent you in court if needed
• Explain your rights and options to you

Preventing Drunk Driving Accidents in Houston

Preventing drunk driving accidents requires individual, community and law enforcement commitment. Here are some ways to reduce drunk driving accidents in Houston:

• Plan ahead and designate a sober driver or use a ride share when drinking
• Support strict enforcement of DWI laws
• Encourage responsible alcohol service and consumption at bars and restaurants
• Educate people about the dangers and consequences of drunk driving

Together we can make our roads safer in Houston and reduce the damage of drunk driving accidents.

Why Contact the Law Offices of Omar Khawaja?

If you or a loved one was involved in a car accident with a drunk driver in Houston, you need to seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence for your case and get you the compensation you deserve.

At The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja, our Houston personal injury lawyers have years of experience with drunk driving accident cases. We will be your advocate and fight for you.

Our Houston car accident lawyers will:

Investigate the Crash: Get evidence, interview witnesses and work with accident reconstruction experts.

Deal with Insurance Companies: Negotiate with insurers to get fair compensation.

Calculate Damages: Determine current and future losses from the crash.

Represent Your Interests: Advocate for you in settlement negotiations or court.

The Bottom Line

Drunk driving accidents are a preventable tragedy that happen too often in Houston and cause too much pain. If you or a loved one has been in a drunk driving accident, call an experienced Houston drunk driving accident attorney to get you the help you need and the compensation you’re entitled to. Together we can make drunk drivers accountable and our community safer.

“After a hit-and-run accident, I was unsure where to turn. Attorney Omar not only helped me understand my rights but also secured a settlement that covered my medical bills and car repairs. Highly recommended!” — Lana