Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Houston’s Trusted Legal Advocate for Drunk Driving Accident Victims

If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, you deserve justice and compensation for your losses. The Law Offices of Jed Silverman is committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and helping victims recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Our experienced legal team understands the devastating impact of these accidents and is here to fight for you.

To schedule a consultation, call (713) 597-2221 or contact us online.

Texas Drunk Driving Laws

Texas has strict laws against driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. According to Texas law, a driver is legally intoxicated if they have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. However, even if a driver’s BAC is below this limit, they can still be arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) if their impairment affects their ability to drive safely.

Under Texas Penal Code §49.04, a person commits a DWI offense if they operate a motor vehicle while intoxicated. Penalties for DWI convictions may include fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and even jail time. For repeat offenders or cases involving serious injuries or fatalities, the consequences become even more severe.

How to Prove Liability Against a Drunk Driver

To successfully pursue a claim against a drunk driver, you must establish liability. This requires proving the following elements:

1. The Driver Was Intoxicated: Evidence such as police reports, breathalyzer test results, and witness testimony can demonstrate that the at-fault driver was under the influence at the time of the crash.
2. The Driver’s Intoxication Caused the Accident: It must be shown that the driver’s impairment directly led to the collision and your resulting injuries.
3. You Suffered Damages: You must provide evidence of your medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other losses related to the accident.

An experienced Houston drunk driving accident attorney will gather evidence, work with accident reconstruction experts, and build a strong case to prove liability against the drunk driver.

Dram Shop & Social Host Liability in Texas

In Texas, liability for a drunk driving accident may extend beyond the intoxicated driver. Under the Texas Dram Shop Act (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code §2.02), bars, restaurants, and other establishments that serve alcohol can be held liable if they serve alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who later causes an accident.

Similarly, social hosts—such as individuals who provide alcohol at private parties—may also be held responsible in certain cases. If a host knowingly serves alcohol to a minor who then causes a drunk driving accident, they could face legal consequences.

If you suspect a bar, restaurant, or host contributed to the driver’s intoxication, our legal team at The Law Offices of Jed Silverman can investigate and determine if a dram shop or social host liability claim is viable.

Compensation Available for Drunk Driving Accident Victims

Victims of drunk driving accidents may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Covers hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the accident and any future loss of earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Property Damage: Costs for vehicle repairs or replacement.
• Punitive Damages: Additional compensation designed to punish the drunk driver and deter future misconduct.

What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident in Houston

If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident, taking the following steps can protect your rights and strengthen your case:

1. Call 911: Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical assistance if needed.
2. Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses.
3. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. A medical evaluation is crucial for your health and your legal claim.
4. Do Not Accept a Quick Settlement: Insurance companies may offer a low settlement to resolve the case quickly. Consult a lawyer before accepting any offers.
5. Contact a Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer: An attorney can help you understand your legal options and fight for maximum compensation.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The Law Offices of Jed Silverman is here to help you obtain justice and your entitled compensation.

Call us today at (713) 597-2221 or fill out our online contact form to speak with our experienced lawyers.