The decision to drive under the influence is a reckless act that shatters lives in an instant. In a city as large as Houston, the consequences of this negligence are seen far too often on our roads. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a drunk driving accident in Houston, you are not just dealing with physical and emotional trauma—you are the victim of a preventable crime.
While the drunk driver will face criminal charges, the criminal justice system does not provide compensation for your medical bills, lost income, or profound suffering. To hold the driver financially accountable, you must pursue a civil personal injury claim. Understanding your rights is the first step toward securing the justice and maximum compensation you deserve. An experienced DUI accident lawyer in Houston can be your strongest advocate in this fight.
The Devastating Impact of Drunk Driving in Texas
Texas has the unfortunate distinction of leading the nation in alcohol-related crash fatalities. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there were over 25,000 DUI-alcohol related traffic crashes in a single recent year, resulting in over 1,000 deaths and thousands of serious injuries. These are not just statistics; they are families torn apart by one person’s selfish choice.
A collision caused by an intoxicated driver is often more severe than a standard car accident. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, poor judgment, and a diminished ability to control their vehicles, often leading to high-speed, catastrophic impacts.
Your Right to Compensation Beyond the Criminal Case
A civil lawsuit is completely separate from the drunk driver’s criminal proceedings. While a criminal conviction can serve as powerful evidence in your favor, your civil claim focuses on recovering damages for the harm you have suffered.
In Texas, victims of drunk driving accidents can seek compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Including emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical care.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you have lost while unable to work.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or earning the same level of income.
- Pain and Suffering: For the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.
- Mental Anguish: For the psychological impact, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
- Physical Impairment: For the loss of enjoyment of life and inability to participate in activities you once loved.
The Potential for Punitive Damages in Drunk Driving Cases
One of the most significant aspects of a drunk driving accident claim in Texas is the potential to recover punitive damages (also known as exemplary damages). Unlike compensatory damages, which are meant to repay you for your losses, punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer for their egregious behavior and deter similar conduct in the future.
Under Texas law, punitive damages may be awarded if you can prove by clear and convincing evidence that the harm resulted from “gross negligence.” Driving while intoxicated is the textbook example of gross negligence. An experienced attorney will know how to build a case that not only proves your right to compensation but also demonstrates the defendant’s reckless disregard for the safety of others, justifying a claim for punitive damages.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Drunk Driving Accident?
While the drunk driver is the most obvious at-fault party, they may not be the only one. Texas Dram Shop laws allow victims to hold bars, restaurants, or other establishments liable if they served alcohol to a person who was “obviously intoxicated to the extent that he presented a clear danger to himself and others.”
An experienced Houston DUI accident lawyer will investigate all potential sources of liability to ensure you can pursue every avenue for recovery. This may include:
- The drunk driver.
- The bar or restaurant that over-served the driver.
- The driver’s employer, if they were working at the time of the crash.
In the tragic event that the accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek justice for their profound loss.
How a Houston Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Can Help
Navigating the legal system after being hit by a drunk driver is overwhelming. The insurance company may try to offer a quick, lowball settlement before you understand the full extent of your injuries and long-term needs. You need an advocate who will protect you.
A dedicated personal injury attorney will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into the crash.
- Secure critical evidence, such as police reports, breathalyzer or blood test results, and bar receipts.
- Handle all communications with insurance adjusters.
- Work with medical and financial experts to calculate the full value of your claim.
- Fight for a settlement that includes both compensatory and punitive damages.
Take your case to trial if a fair offer is not made.
Contact the Stano Law Firm Today
If you are the victim of a drunk driving accident in Houston, you do not have to face this alone. The Stano Law Firm is here to help you fight for the justice and financial recovery you deserve. We are passionate about holding negligent drivers accountable and helping our clients rebuild their lives.
Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. We will review the details of your case and explain your legal options. You pay no fees unless we win your case.