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Driving under the influence (DUI) is a grave offense that jeopardizes the driver’s life and poses a significant risk to other road users. The consequences of DUI accidents can be devastating in a bustling city like Houston, where the roads are always teeming with vehicles and pedestrians.
With the increasing number of vehicles on the road, the instances of DUI accidents have also seen a surge. If you or a loved one has been a victim of such an accident, it’s crucial to understand the impact and seek legal assistance promptly.
Call us today at 832-844-6700 for a free case evaluation with an experienced Houston work injury lawyer.
In Houston, the toll of DUI-related accidents is deeply concerning. Each year, there are approximately 1,454 DUI crashes and injuries. Tragically, this includes five fatal crashes, resulting in the loss of five lives. Beyond these fatalities, the city witnesses six severe injuries that can have long-lasting repercussions for the victims.
Additionally, a staggering 1,055 individuals suffered minor injuries due to DUI incidents. These numbers highlight the profound impact of driving under the influence on our community, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and legal intervention.
Like the rest of Texas, Houston has stringent laws against drunk driving. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%. However, drivers can still be arrested and charged with a DWI even if their BAC is below this limit if their driving is impaired. Moreover, for commercial drivers, the BAC limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, any detectable amount of alcohol is illegal.
Bentley’s Law is named after Bentley Brodnax, a toddler who tragically lost his life due to a drunk driver. The Law mandates that any driver convicted of a DWI with a child passenger under the age of 15 will face a state jail felony. This comes with penalties including a fine of up to $10,000, a jail sentence ranging from 180 days to two years, and the loss of one’s driver’s license for 180 days.
Like many major cities, Houston grapples with the repercussions of DUI accidents. These accidents lead to property damage and result in severe injuries and, in unfortunate cases, fatalities. That’s why there are severe penalties for DUI offenses.
Clearly, Houston takes drunk driving seriously. If you mess up once, you could lose a lot of money and your license. Do it again, and the penalties get even tougher. You’re looking at a big fine and possibly years in jail by the third time. It’s clear: Houston wants its roads safe, and there’s no room for drunk drivers.
Being involved in a car accident is traumatic and even more distressing when the other driver is intoxicated. The aftermath of such an incident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can ensure your safety and protect your rights. Here’s a guide on what to do if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation in Houston.
The first thing to do after an accident, including one with a drunk driver, is to check for injuries. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if the injuries seem minor, getting medical attention is essential as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Always report the accident to the police, especially if you suspect the other driver is intoxicated. A police report will be crucial when filing insurance claims or if you decide to pursue legal action. The police will also conduct a sobriety test on the suspected driver, which can be vital evidence for your case.
While waiting for the police, if it’s safe to do so, take pictures of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. This visual evidence can be invaluable later on. Also, gather details of any witnesses present. Their accounts can provide an unbiased perspective of the incident.
Get the other driver’s details, including their name, address, driver’s license number, insurance information, and vehicle registration. However, avoid confronting or discussing the accident, especially if the other driver is under the influence.
Even if you feel fine, seeing a doctor after the accident is crucial. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, might not show symptoms immediately. A medical report will also serve as evidence if you decide to file a claim.
If a drunk driver has injured you, it’s advisable to consult with a Houston DUI lawyer. They can guide you on the best course of action, whether it’s negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing a lawsuit. A Houston DUI attorney will ensure your rights are protected and that you get the compensation you deserve.
Being injured by a drunk driver can turn your world upside down. But by taking the right steps, you can ensure your safety, gather crucial evidence, and set the foundation for any legal actions you might want to pursue. Remember, you’re not alone in this. Resources and professionals are ready to help and guide you through this challenging time. Stay safe, and always prioritize your well-being.
The aftermath can be overwhelming when you or a loved one becomes a victim of a drunk driving accident. Beyond the immediate physical injuries, there’s the emotional trauma and financial strain to consider. A skilled Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer can guide you through the legal process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for the various damages incurred. Here’s a breakdown of the potential recoveries:
Medical bills can pile up quickly after an accident, from emergency room visits to ongoing treatments. A lawyer can help you claim these expenses, ensuring you get the care you need without the financial burden.
If your injuries prevent you from working, temporarily or permanently, you’re entitled to compensation for your lost income and potential future earnings.
Accidents don’t just leave physical scars. The emotional and psychological impact can be profound. Compensation for pain and suffering considers this non-tangible impact on your life.
In cases where the at-fault driver’s behavior was especially reckless, punitive damages serve as a form of punishment and a deterrent for others.
The effects of an accident can ripple through a family, affecting relationships and the overall family dynamic. This compensation considers the impact on relationships with spouses or close family members.
In the tragic event that a drunk driving accident results in a fatality, the surviving family members can seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related damages.
From transportation costs to medical appointments to over-the-counter medications, these miscellaneous expenses can add up. A lawyer can help ensure you’re reimbursed for these direct costs.
Navigating the aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Understanding the range of damages you can claim is the first step towards justice and healing. With the right legal support, you can focus on recovery while ensuring that the responsible parties are held accountable for their actions.
When faced with the aftermath of a drunk driving accident, victims often find themselves in a maze of legal complexities, insurance claims, and emotional distress. The attorneys at Johnson Garcia bring expertise, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice to the table, ensuring that victims are not alone in their fight. With over 35 years of experience, we’ve championed the rights of countless DUI accident victims, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been impacted by a DUI accident in Houston, don’t hesitate. Call us at 832-844-6700. Let our expertise be the support you lean on.
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