In Need of a Drunk Driving Accident Attorney in Houston?
Drunk driving accidents can be traumatic, but taking the appropriate steps can help protect your well-being and legal rights. Consulting with legal professionals who are well-versed in handling drunk driving accident cases can be crucial in ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve and holding the responsible party accountable.
Have you recently been harmed by a drunk driver? If this is the case, you’re entitled to compensation. Reach out to one of our drunk driving accidents attorneys in Houston without delay.
What is Considered Drunk Driving in Houston, Texas?
In Houston, Texas, as well as throughout the state, driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits that determine if a driver is considered legally impaired are as follows:
DUI for Minors (Under 21):
For individuals under the legal drinking age of 21, any detectable amount of alcohol in their system can lead to a DUI charge. Texas has a “zero tolerance” policy for underage drinking and driving.
DWI for Adults (21 and Older):
The legal limit for adult drivers aged 21 and above is a BAC of 0.08%. If a driver’s BAC exceeds this limit, they may be charged with DWI.
It’s important to note that the legal definitions and penalties for drunk driving can change over time, and specific circumstances might lead to enhanced charges. Penalties for DUI and DWI offenses can include fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, probation, and even jail time, depending on the severity of the offense and whether the driver has prior DUI/DWI convictions.
Does a Drunk Driver Have to Be Arrested for a Personal Injury Case to Be Successful?
No, a drunk driver does not necessarily have to be arrested for a personal injury case to be successful. While a drunk driving arrest can provide strong evidence of negligence and liability in a personal injury case, there are other ways to establish a successful case even if the driver was not arrested at the scene.
In a personal injury case involving a drunk driver, the key factor is proving negligence, which generally involves showing that the driver breached their duty of care by driving under the influence and that this breach directly caused the injuries or damages. Here are some ways a successful personal injury case can be built, even without a DUI arrest:
Evidence of Intoxication: Even without an arrest, evidence of the driver’s intoxication can be presented. This can include witness statements, video footage, photographs of the scene, and testimony from law enforcement officers who responded to the scene.
Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Test Results: If a BAC test was conducted at the scene or later at a medical facility, the results can serve as evidence of intoxication, even if the driver was not arrested immediately.
Field Sobriety Test Results: If the driver performed poorly on field sobriety tests administered by law enforcement officers, these results can be used as evidence of impairment.
Medical Records and Expert Testimony: Medical records detailing the injuries sustained in the accident can help establish the connection between the accident and the driver’s negligence. Expert testimony from medical professionals can also support this connection.
Eyewitness Testimonies: Eyewitnesses who observed the driver’s behavior, noticed signs of intoxication, or saw the accident occur can provide valuable testimony in court.
Violation of Traffic Laws: If the drunk driver violates traffic laws leading up to the accident (e.g., running a red light, speeding), this can contribute to establishing negligence.
While a DUI arrest can strengthen a personal injury case, it’s not the sole determining factor. The overall goal is to prove that the driver’s negligence, including driving under the influence, directly led to the accident and resulting injuries. To build a strong case, it’s recommended to consult with a qualified personal injury attorney who can help gather evidence, assess liability, and guide you through the legal process.
What Should I Do After Being Injured in an Accident Caused by a Drunk Driver in Houston?
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver in Houston, it’s important to take certain steps to protect your well-being and your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are top priorities. If you or anyone else involved in the accident has sustained injuries, seek medical attention immediately. Follow medical advice and attend all necessary appointments to document your injuries.
Contact Law Enforcement: Call the police to the scene of the accident. They will create an official accident report, which can serve as valuable evidence in your case.
Gather Information: If you’re able to do so safely, collect information from the drunk driver, including their name, contact information, insurance details, and license plate number.
Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. These visual records can be crucial for your case.
Collect Witness Information: If there were witnesses to the accident, obtain their contact information. Their statements can support your account of what happened.
Do Not Discuss Fault: Avoid discussing or admitting fault at the accident scene, even if you believe the drunk driver was responsible.
Avoid Settlement Offers: Refrain from accepting any settlement offers from insurance companies before consulting an attorney. These offers may not fully cover your expenses and losses.
Report to Your Insurance: Notify your own insurance company about the accident, but avoid giving detailed statements until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: Reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in accidents caused by drunk drivers. They can provide legal guidance, evaluate your case, and help protect your rights.
Preserve Evidence: Keep all documents related to the accident, including medical records, police reports, and communication with insurance companies.
By taking these steps, you can protect your physical well-being and increase your chances of pursuing a successful personal injury claim against the drunk driver who caused your accident.
Next, contact our car accident attorneys in Houston, Texas at Hollingsworth Law Firm today by calling (713) 637-4560 to learn more about your legal rights and options to hold the negligent driver liable for your complete recovery needs.
We provide free consultations for all car accident cases in Houston, Texas, and never charge any legal fees unless we deliver a positive outcome for your unique case.
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Testimonials
Professional and Thorough
I used Steve Hollingsworth for a personal injury case following a car accident. He was very easy to work with and managed my expectations regarding costs, time commitment/duration, filing suit etc. Steve kept me informed during the process and always made sure I understand what everything meant. My case took about 18 months to resolve, ending in mediation after filing suit and he pushed hard to make sure my best interest was represented and to ensure that I had the best possible (and fair) outcome. I hope I never have a personal injury claim again but if I do, I would absolutely consult with Steve. He exceeded my expectations and made the process as painless as possible. I would high recommend him.
JessieFormer Client
Awesome Attorney
I was a client of Steve Hollingsworth. I was totally satisfied with his representation of me. He was very helpful in answering all my questions and always kept me updated on the status of my case. I am very happy with the settlement of the case and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for legal advice.
RossanaFormer Client
Houston’s Best Consultation!
Steve was just great! Very easy to work with, communicates really well and most importantly sets realistic expectations. He is very straightforward and promptly responds to all your questions. I would definitely recommend Steve and would not hesitate to hire him in the future.
AnonymousFormer Client
Very Accommodating and Caring
Steve and his assistant Kristina takes care of all my requests right away. Steve personally calls on issues and keeps me updated on the developments of the case. Got me a great settlement! Would highly recommend!
Mila G.Former Client
Rear End Case
Mr. Hollingsworth was an excellent lawyer in my case. He kept me up to date and informed through the whole process. He was always honest and fought hard in my case. He comes highly recommend.
Anonymous Former Client
Awesome!!!!!
I have no complaints; Steve did a very good job on explaining the details on everything that I was going through with my case. Steve got my case settled in no time, I will sure spread the word about Steve he is a very great lawyer.
SaraFormer Client
Review
I liked how Steve explained everything, so I knew what I was getting in to. Steve got me what I deserved in no time. I would recommend him to anyone.
AndrewFormer Client
Steven and I attended law school together and I have known him since 2000. He was stellar in representing a close friend with a personal injury matter. I have been very impressed with his communication, dedication and thoroughness in representation.
Pamela V.Attorney from Cypress, TX
Steve is the real deal! He is an extremely invaluable resource on all things Litigation for me as a younger attorney. He is not only great a securing the bigger verdicts, but actually cares about the clients and still sticks by his tried and true method of meeting, in person, with his clients to go over facts . overall, a solid attorney, with a wealth of knowledge!
Crystal H.Attorney from Houston, TX
I cannot recommend Steve highly enough. As an attorney, you do not often find yourself in the position of being a client. But because of someone’s negligence, my husband and I found ourselves in need of a personal injury attorney after my husband suffered catastrophic injuries. We were immediately referred to Steve, and we were so lucky we were. Steve is compassionate but also tenacious. We always felt that he had our best interest at heart and was fighting for us. We truly felt that he cared about our case. There was never a time that he was unavailable to talk to us, and always kept us well informed. He has the utmost integrity and also has a vast knowledge of the law. On top of that, his experience is top notch as he has worked on both the defense and plaintiff side. We knew Steve was always tirelessly fighting for us, and a year and a half after my husband was severely injured by a negligent driver, Steve got us a fantastic settlement. I recommend Steve without hesitation.
Madelyn L.Attorney from Houston, TX
Steve and I were colleagues, where we worked on complex personal injury and wrongful death cases. What I observed in the years we worked together is that Steve is not only extremely skillful in his profession, but he is a tireless student of the law, constantly working to perfect the art of practicing law. He genuinely cares about his clients and their cases and it shows. He has excellent work ethic. He is not only a terrific lawyer but also a great person. As a fellow member of the State Bar of Texas, I would recommend Steve to anyone needing a zealous advocate in a personal injury case.
Vivian E.Attorney from San Antonio, TX
After working with Steve for a couple of years, I found Steve to be an outstanding, aggressive and highly skilled lawyer in the courtroom. His confidence and knowledge of the courtroom and what it takes to succeed there, I believe will ensure his long term prosperity.
Robin T.Attorney from College Station, TX
I had the pleasure of working on a trial with Steven last August. His background as an ADA is clearly evident in the courtroom. Steven’s presentation of the evidence throughout trial is that of a seasoned attorney who has spent many hours in front of a jury. His opening/closings were excellent, as well as his strategic litigating throughout the trial. Steven is a consummate professional and a pleasure to work with, and watch in the courtroom.
James H.From Miami, FL
When I met Steve, I was a legal assistant at a Plaintiff’s firm and he was working as an attorney for AIG. We connected there and then. Steve is a likable guy and an outstanding trial lawyer. He is charismatic and jurors like him. He is a Plaintiff’s lawyer now and he has the right skill set to represent injured individuals: he is compassionate, honest, and sincere and will go the extra mile for his clients. I’ve known Steve for almost 8 years now and I’m excited to see his career evolve.
Alice L. Attorney in Houston, TX
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