The suspect of a Houston crash that killed three people over the first weekend in November has been charged, according to Fox 26. The suspect was charged with intoxication manslaughter after driving through a red light and striking three people. He was taken to the hospital and treated for critical injuries. Toxicology reports confirmed the driver was intoxicated.
Tragic events like this highlight how dangerous driving on Houston’s busy roads can be. In just a split second, one driver can end lives, leaving families devastated and communities searching for answers. Intoxicated driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal crashes in Houston. Despite ongoing awareness efforts, too many drivers still choose to get behind the wheel while impaired. At Lassiter Law, we’ve seen firsthand how these senseless tragedies can alter lives forever. Our compassionate Houston car crash lawyers are dedicated to holding negligent drivers accountable and helping victims’ families pursue the justice they deserve. We understand the emotional and financial toll of losing a loved one in a preventable crash, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process. If your family has been affected by a drunk driving accident, contact us today at (832) 937-4381 for your free consultation.
Finding a Houston Car Crash Lawyer
If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a serious crash, a Houston car crash lawyer can provide the guidance and representation you need to move forward. At Lassiter Law, we understand that car accident cases involving intoxicated drivers often require extensive investigation and aggressive legal action to prove negligence and recover fair compensation. An experienced Houston attorney will know how to work with law enforcement reports, toxicology results, and witness statements to build a strong case on your behalf. From negotiating with insurance companies to pursuing litigation when necessary, having a skilled advocate on your side can make a critical difference in your recovery and financial stability.
At Lassiter Law, our dedicated team of Houston car accident attorneys stands ready to fight for victims of drunk and reckless driving. We know that no amount of compensation can undo the pain of losing a loved one. Pursuing justice can bring closure and financial relief during such a difficult time. Our firm takes a personalized approach to every case, carefully reviewing the evidence, consulting experts, and crafting a legal strategy. We’re committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and ensuring that insurance companies don’t undervalue your claim. When you choose Lassiter Law, you gain a team that’s driven by integrity and a determination to protect your rights.
The Aftermath of a Houston Car Crash
Being involved in a Houston car crash can be one of the most overwhelming experiences a person faces. In the moments following a collision, confusion, adrenaline, and fear can make it difficult to think clearly. The steps you take immediately after the accident can greatly impact your safety, recovery, and ability to pursue compensation later. Knowing what to do can help protect your health, your rights, and your future.
What to Do Immediately After a Houston Car Crash
In the chaotic moments following a crash, it’s crucial to stay calm and focus on safety. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, your first actions can make a major difference. This is especially true in Houston, where intersecting highways often cross, creating
Calling 911 and Documenting the Scene
The first priority after any Houston car crash is to ensure everyone’s safety and contact emergency services. Call 911 to report the accident and request police and medical assistance if needed. While waiting for responders, check on others involved, but avoid moving anyone who appears seriously injured unless there’s an immediate danger.
Once it’s safe to do so, begin documenting the scene. Take clear photos of vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signals. Gather contact and insurance information from the other driver, as well as statements and contact details from any witnesses. These details can be vital evidence later when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
Seeking Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you feel fine, always seek medical care immediately after a car crash in Houston. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away. Concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage all require dedicated medical care. A prompt medical evaluation ensures your health is prioritized and creates important documentation linking your injuries to the crash. Keep copies of all medical reports, test results, and treatment records, as they will play a key role in proving your damages during a claim.
Reporting the Accident to Law Enforcement
Under Texas law, drivers must report a crash that results in injury, death, or significant property damage. When officers arrive, provide a truthful account of what happened, but avoid admitting fault or speculating. The police report will serve as an official record of the Houston car crash, including details like the date, location, weather, and potential causes. You can request a copy of the report later, which may help support your insurance or legal claim.
Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Crash
After the immediate chaos settles, you’ll likely hear from insurance adjusters, sometimes within hours of the crash. While it’s important to report the accident to your insurer, be cautious when speaking with representatives from the other driver’s insurance company. Their goal is often to minimize payouts, and anything you say could be used against you.
Avoid giving recorded statements or signing documents without fully understanding them. Provide only the basic facts, and let an experienced Houston car crash lawyer review any settlement offers before accepting. A skilled attorney can handle negotiations on your behalf, ensuring you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Understanding Your Rights as a Crash Victim in Houston
Victims of Houston car crashes have legal rights under Texas law, including the right to pursue compensation when another driver’s negligence causes harm. You may be entitled to damages for medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost income, emotional distress, and other related losses. In cases involving drunk or reckless drivers, punitive damages may also apply.
It’s important to act quickly. Texas has strict deadlines (known as the statute of limitations) for filing car accident claims. Consulting a qualified Houston car crash lawyer can help you understand your options, gather evidence, and build a strong case before crucial deadlines pass. With the right guidance, you can focus on healing while your lawyer works to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Your Right to Compensation After a Houston Car Crash
Victims have the legal right to pursue financial recovery for losses caused by another driver’s negligence. This includes compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and the emotional toll of the crash. Texas law allows victims to seek both economic and non-economic damages depending on the severity of the accident and its impact on their life.
Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable
If another driver’s reckless, intoxicated, or distracted behavior caused the crash, you have the right to hold them legally responsible. Proving negligence involves showing that the other party breached their duty of care and that this directly led to your injuries. A Houston car crash lawyer can help gather evidence such as police reports, eyewitness statements, and expert testimony to support your claim.
Understanding Texas’s Comparative Fault Rule
Texas follows a modified comparative fault system, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault—so long as your share of the blame is 50% or less. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Understanding this rule is critical when negotiating with insurance companies after a Houston car crash.
Statute of Limitations for Houston Car Crash Claims
In most cases, Texas law gives crash victims two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline could prevent you from recovering compensation altogether. Because evidence can fade and witnesses can be harder to locate over time, it’s best to contact a Houston car crash attorney as soon as possible.
When Punitive Damages May Apply
In particularly serious cases, Texas courts may award punitive damages. That includes those involving drunk driving, hit-and-runs, or extreme recklessness. These are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. A knowledgeable attorney can evaluate whether your Houston car crash qualifies for this type of compensation.
The Importance of Legal Representation After a Houston Car Crash
Navigating the legal system while recovering from an accident can be overwhelming. A skilled Houston car crash lawyer ensures your rights are protected, deadlines are met, and your claim is properly valued. With experienced representation, you can pursue maximum compensation and focus on your physical and emotional recovery.
Compensation Available After a Houston Car Crash
After a serious accident, financial recovery is often one of the most pressing concerns for victims and their families. Medical bills, property damage, and lost income can quickly add up, creating overwhelming stress in an already difficult time. Fortunately, Texas law allows victims of a Houston car crash to pursue compensation for their losses when another party’s negligence is to blame. Understanding the different types of damages available can help you know what to expect as you move forward with your claim.
Economic Damages You May Be Entitled To
Economic damages are the measurable, out-of-pocket financial losses you experience after a crash. These damages are typically documented through bills, receipts, and pay stubs, making them straightforward to calculate. Common types of economic damages in Houston car crash claims include:
Medical Expenses
This includes costs for hospital visits, surgeries, emergency transportation, medications, physical therapy, and future medical care related to your injuries. These expenses can be extensive and ongoing, especially in severe injury cases.
Property Damage
Victims can recover the cost to repair or replace their vehicle and any personal property damaged in the crash. This also covers towing fees, rental car costs, and other related out-of-pocket expenses.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you lost during your recovery. This applies to both short-term absences and longer periods of disability.
Loss of Earning Capacity
When injuries from a Houston car crash cause long-term or permanent limitations that affect your ability to work, you can pursue damages for diminished earning capacity. These damages are often calculated based on your age, occupation, and projected lifetime earnings.
Non-Economic Damages and Emotional Suffering
Not all losses can be measured in dollars and cents. Non-economic damages compensate victims for the emotional, psychological, and physical suffering caused by the crash. These are often the most personally significant impacts, as they can affect your quality of life for years to come.
Pain and Suffering
Covers the physical pain and discomfort caused by injuries or medical treatment following the accident.
Emotional Distress
Includes conditions such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that result from the trauma of the crash.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Compensates for the inability to participate in activities, hobbies, or experiences you once enjoyed before the Houston car crash.
Loss of Companionship or Consortium
In severe or fatal crashes, family members may recover damages for the loss of companionship, affection, or spousal relationship caused by the accident.
Punitive Damages in Serious or Fatal Car Crashes
In certain cases, victims or their families may also be entitled to punitive damages. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, punitive damages are not meant to compensate for losses. They are intended to punish egregious behavior and deter similar conduct in the future.
Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving
Punitive damages may apply when a driver causes a crash while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Street Racing or Reckless Speeding
Drivers who engage in extremely dangerous behavior, such as illegal racing or excessive speeding, may face additional financial penalties.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
Leaving the scene of a Houston car crash without providing assistance or identifying oneself is considered serious misconduct that can justify punitive damages.
Driving with a Known History of Dangerous Behavior
If a driver continues to operate a vehicle despite a record of reckless or intoxicated driving, courts may impose punitive damages to emphasize accountability.
The Role of Evidence in a Houston Car Crash Case
When it comes to proving fault and securing fair compensation, evidence is everything. The strength of your evidence often determines how successful your claim will be, whether you’re negotiating with insurance adjusters or presenting your case in court. After a Houston car crash, gathering the right evidence early can make the difference between winning the compensation you deserve and walking away with far less than you need.
Types of Evidence That Strengthen a Claim
Every Houston car crash case is built on evidence that demonstrates who was at fault and how the victim was impacted. A skilled attorney will collect, organize, and present this information strategically to build a compelling case. Key forms of evidence often include accident scene photographs showing vehicle positions, road conditions, and damage; police and crash reports detailing officer observations and potential citations; and medical records linking injuries directly to the accident.
Witness statements that confirm what happened before and after the crash can also be vital, along with digital evidence such as surveillance footage or dashcam recordings. In many cases, expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals helps clarify how the crash occurred and the extent of the victim’s injuries. The more comprehensive your evidence, the stronger your case becomes. That also means it becomes harder for insurance companies to dispute your claim.
Importance of Police Reports and Witness Statements
Police reports and eyewitness testimony play a vital role in establishing fault in Houston car crash claims. When law enforcement arrives at the scene, officers document key information such as the time, date, and location of the crash, statements from drivers, passengers, and witnesses, any citations issued, and whether signs of impairment were observed.
This official report carries significant weight with insurance companies and in court, often serving as a central piece of evidence. Additionally, witness statements provide a valuable third-party perspective that can confirm your account of the crash and strengthen your credibility. Whenever possible, victims should gather witness contact information at the scene or ensure it’s included in the police report to help support their claim later.
Using Medical Records to Prove Injury Severity
Medical documentation is one of the most critical forms of evidence in a Houston car crash injury claim. These records directly connect your injuries to the collision and demonstrate the physical, emotional, and financial toll you’ve endured. Important medical evidence includes emergency room and hospital records, doctors’ notes, treatment plans, diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRIs, physical therapy reports, and prescription documentation.
Together, these records provide a clear timeline of your treatment and recovery. Without this documentation, it becomes much harder to prove the extent of your injuries or justify compensation for pain and suffering. Keeping consistent medical appointments and following your doctor’s recommendations not only supports your health but also strengthens your legal case.
How Accident Reconstruction Experts Help Build a Case
In complex Houston car crash cases, attorneys often work with accident reconstruction experts to determine exactly how the collision occurred. These professionals analyze physical evidence, vehicle damage, skid marks, roadway design, and environmental conditions to recreate the crash in detail. Their findings can reveal the precise sequence of events before, during, and after the collision, as well as estimate vehicle speeds, points of impact, and braking distances. They can also identify contributing factors such as distraction, speeding, or intoxication. This expert insight is especially powerful in cases involving disputed liability or multiple vehicles, helping juries and insurance adjusters visualize the crash and understand its true cause.
Digital Evidence: Surveillance and Dashcam Footage
Today, digital evidence is often among the most persuasive forms of proof in a Houston car crash claim. Footage from traffic cameras, security systems, or personal dashcams can clearly show how the collision occurred, leaving little room for dispute.
Attorneys can subpoena this footage or work quickly to retrieve it before it’s deleted. Dashcam videos are especially valuable because they often capture real-time speed, direction, and behavior of both drivers before impact.
Preserving Evidence Before It’s Lost
Time is one of the biggest threats to your case. Physical evidence can be cleaned up or destroyed, witnesses’ memories may fade, and digital footage can be automatically overwritten. Acting fast after a Houston car crash ensures that valuable evidence is preserved before it disappears. If possible, take photographs immediately, save copies of any digital files, and request a copy of your police report as soon as it’s available. A Houston car crash lawyer can send preservation letters to insurance companies, businesses, and other parties. They’ll secure key evidence before it’s lost forever.
How a Houston Car Crash Lawyer Can Help
After a serious accident, the legal and financial aftermath can feel impossible to manage on your own. Insurance companies may pressure you to settle quickly, evidence can disappear, and medical bills often pile up faster than you can handle. That’s where a Houston car crash lawyer can make a significant difference. An experienced attorney not only handles the legal complexities of your case but also ensures that your rights and financial future are protected from start to finish.
Investigating the Cause of the Crash
The foundation of any successful Houston car crash claim is a thorough investigation. A skilled lawyer will take immediate steps to determine what caused the accident and who should be held responsible. This may include reviewing police reports, examining vehicle damage, obtaining surveillance footage, and interviewing witnesses. In some cases, attorneys work with accident reconstruction specialists to recreate the crash and identify contributing factors such as speeding, intoxication, or distracted driving. By identifying all liable parties, your attorney ensures no potential avenue for compensation is overlooked.
Gathering Evidence and Building a Strong Case
Strong evidence is key to proving negligence and maximizing compensation. A Houston car crash lawyer will collect medical records, witness statements, and expert reports to build a compelling case that clearly links your injuries to the crash. They will also obtain documentation such as phone records or traffic camera footage when distracted or reckless driving is suspected. An attorney’s goal is to present a comprehensive picture of how the accident occurred, the extent of your injuries, and how your life has been impacted. With the right evidence, your case becomes far more persuasive during negotiations or a trial.
Negotiating Fair Compensation with Insurers
Dealing with insurance companies can be one of the most frustrating parts of recovering from a Houston car crash. Adjusters often attempt to minimize payouts or deny valid claims. A knowledgeable attorney understands these tactics and knows how to counter them effectively.
Your lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance companies, review settlement offers, and negotiate for the full value of your claim. By presenting a well-documented demand backed by evidence, they increase the likelihood of a fair and timely settlement.
Recovering for Medical Bills and Lost Wages
A major part of compensation after a Houston car crash involves covering the cost of medical care and lost income. Your attorney will ensure that all current and future medical expenses are properly documented and accounted for. They will also seek reimbursement for wages lost during your recovery and compensation for diminished earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to work.
Pain and Suffering Compensation in Houston Car Crash Claims
Beyond financial losses, victims are also entitled to compensation for the emotional and physical suffering caused by the accident. Pain, anxiety, loss of enjoyment of life, and trauma are all real damages that deserve recognition. A Houston car crash lawyer can help calculate the appropriate value of these non-economic damages and make sure they are included in your claim.
Taking Your Case to Court if Necessary
While many car crash claims are resolved through settlements, some cases require litigation to achieve a fair outcome. If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable amount, a Houston car crash attorney can take your case to court and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.
In court, your lawyer will present evidence, question witnesses, and argue on your behalf to demonstrate the full extent of your damages. Having an experienced trial attorney by your side ensures that your case is presented professionally and persuasively. They’ll give you the best possible chance to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact an Experienced Houston Car Crash Lawyer Today
Fatal crashes leave more than just physical wreckage. They shatter families, futures, and peace of mind. In the aftermath of a deadly collision, survivors often face overwhelming emotional grief, unexpected expenses, and complex legal challenges. Between dealing with insurance adjusters, funeral arrangements, and unanswered questions, it can feel impossible to know where to start. You don’t have to face this alone. Having a compassionate and experienced legal team by your side can help you find clarity, accountability, and the justice your loved one deserves.
At Lassiter Law, we’re dedicated to helping families rebuild after devastating car accidents. Our Houston car crash lawyers understand the pain and uncertainty that follow these tragic events, and we’re here to fight for you every step of the way. We’ll handle the legal burdens so you can focus on healing. Whether you’re seeking compensation for medical costs, lost wages, or wrongful death damages, our team will work tirelessly. We’ll help to protect your rights and secure the results you deserve. Call us anytime at (832) 937-4381 or reach out through our online contact page. We’re available 24/7 to provide a free, confidential consultation.