Drunk Driver Accident Attorney in Houston, TX
Get Lassiter or Get LessProtecting Your Rights After a DWI/DUI Accident
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or loss due to a drunk driving accident, you understand the anger and frustration that comes with such an avoidable tragedy. Drunk driving accidents are among the most devastating and preventable types of personal injury cases. When a reckless individual chooses to drive under the influence, they endanger everyone on the road, often with catastrophic consequences.
At Lassiter Law Firm, our experienced Houston drunk driving accident attorneys are committed to holding intoxicated drivers and other negligent parties accountable. We pursue justice for victims and their families, ensuring they receive the compensation needed to rebuild their lives. If you have been injured in a DWI/DUI accident, we are here to help.
The Impact of Drunk Driving Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk driving remains a leading cause of injury and death on U.S. roadways. Victims often face:
- Severe physical injuries, such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries.
- Emotional trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
- Financial hardships from mounting medical bills, lost income, and property damage.
- The loss of a loved one due to a fatal accident.
While no legal action can undo the harm caused by a drunk driver, it can provide a path to recovery by holding those responsible accountable and securing financial compensation.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Drunk Driving Accident?
In a drunk driving accident case, liability can extend beyond the intoxicated driver. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case to determine all responsible parties, including:
1. The Drunk Driver
The driver who caused the accident can be sued under general negligence laws. However, many drunk drivers are uninsured or underinsured, making it difficult to recover adequate compensation solely from them.
2. Bars, Restaurants, and Nightclubs
Under Texas Dram Shop Laws, establishments that serve alcohol may be held liable if they serve an individual who is clearly intoxicated and that intoxication leads to an accident. For liability to apply, it must have been apparent to the server that the individual was intoxicated to the point of posing a danger to themselves or others.
3. Social Hosts
While Texas law generally does not hold social hosts liable for injuries caused by intoxicated guests, there are exceptions in cases involving underage drinking. If a host provides alcohol to a minor, they may be held legally responsible for damages resulting from the minor’s actions.
4. Employers or Event Hosts
Employers who provide alcohol at company events may bear liability if they fail to monitor alcohol consumption and take steps to prevent intoxicated employees from driving.
What Damages Can I Recover After a Drunk Driving Accident?
Victims of drunk driving accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Current and future costs for treatment, rehabilitation, and therapy.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for missed work and loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional trauma.
- Property Damage: Costs associated with repairing or replacing a vehicle.
- Wrongful Death: For families who have lost a loved one, damages may include funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and future financial support.
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Why Choose Lassiter Law Firm?
At Lassiter Law Firm, we are passionate about advocating for victims of drunk driving accidents. With years of experience and a track record of success, we:
- Conduct thorough investigations to identify all liable parties.
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to secure fair settlements.
- Take cases to trial when necessary to achieve justice for our clients.
- Work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Take Action Now: Schedule a Free Consultation
Time is critical in personal injury cases, as evidence can fade and legal deadlines apply. In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to compensation.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a drunk driving accident, contact Lassiter Law Firm today at (713) 489-1580 to schedule your free consultation. Our dedicated team will answer your questions, explain your legal options, and fight tirelessly for the justice you deserve.
What is a drunk driving accident attorney?
A drunk driving accident attorney is a legal professional who specializes in representing victims of accidents caused by intoxicated drivers. These attorneys work to hold drunk drivers and other responsible parties accountable while securing compensation for victims’ medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Why should I hire an attorney after a drunk driving accident?
Drunk driving accidents often involve complex legal and insurance issues. An experienced attorney can investigate the accident, identify all liable parties, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. They can also take your case to court if necessary.
Who can be held liable in a drunk driving accident case?
Liability can extend beyond the drunk driver. Potentially responsible parties include:
- The drunk driver themselves.
- Bars, restaurants, or nightclubs that served the intoxicated individual (under Texas Dram Shop Laws).
- Social hosts who served alcohol to minors.
- Employers or event hosts who provided alcohol irresponsibly.
An attorney can help determine all liable parties to maximize your compensation.
What is the Texas Dram Shop Statute?
The Texas Dram Shop Statute (Tex. Alco. Bev. Code § 2.02) allows victims to hold establishments liable for serving alcohol to someone who is clearly intoxicated if that individual causes an accident. The intoxication must have been apparent to the server and a proximate cause of the damages or injuries.
Can a social host be held liable for a drunk driving accident in Texas?
In most cases, social hosts in Texas are not held liable for serving alcohol to intoxicated adults. However, they may be held liable if they provide alcohol to a minor who then causes an accident. Consult an attorney for guidance on specific situations.
What damages can I recover in a drunk driving accident case?
Victims of drunk driving accidents may be eligible for compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including future care.
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering.
- Property damage.
- Wrongful death damages, if a loved one was killed.
Your attorney will evaluate your case to ensure all damages are accounted for.
How long do I have to file a drunk driving accident claim in Texas?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your right to compensation.
What should I do immediately after a drunk driving accident?
If you’re involved in a drunk driving accident:
- Seek medical attention for injuries.
- Report the accident to law enforcement and obtain a police report.
- Gather evidence, such as photos, witness statements, and contact information.
- Avoid discussing the case with insurance companies without legal representation.
- Contact an experienced attorney to protect your rights.
How does Lassiter Law Firm handle drunk driving accident cases?
Lassiter Law Firm investigates each case thoroughly to identify all liable parties, negotiate aggressively with insurance companies, and take cases to court if necessary. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay unless we win your case.
How can I schedule a consultation with Lassiter Law Firm?
To schedule a free consultation, call Lassiter Law Firm at (713) 489-1580. During the consultation, our attorneys will review your case, answer your questions, and discuss your legal options. Don’t delay—contact us today to protect your rights.