Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Any injury on the roads in Houston can be devastating for families. When the at-fault driver is accused of drunk driving, it is often even harder to stomach. Drunk driving (DUI/DWI) is one of the main causes of accidents on Texas roads and the injuries that result are often severe.

If you or a loved are unfortunate enough to be involved in such an accident, you may be entitled to considerably more compensation than a standard personal injury claim. However, it can be challenging to receive what you are entitled to without legal assistance.

Drunk driving accident injury lawyer, Ryan DeHoyos, has represented many victims of such accidents in the Houston area. The team at the DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, PLLC can provide the support and expertise you need and help you fight for a fair deal either in or out of the courtroom.

What to do if a drunk driver hits you in Houston?

If you are injured in an accident caused by a suspected drunk driver, your immediate priority should be your health and safety. 

However, you can take several key steps to protect your legal rights and strengthen your potential case. Below is a breakdown of these actions:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention right away. Some injuries, especially those related to car accidents, may not present symptoms immediately but can worsen over time. 

Ensure that a medical professional documents all injuries, as this will be crucial when pursuing a claim.

Document the Scene:

Take photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Witness statements are also critical, so try to collect contact information from anyone who saw the crash.

Identify Signs of Intoxication

Signs that a driver may be under the influence of alcohol include slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, stumbling, and the smell of alcohol. If you suspect the other driver is drunk, note these observations and share them with law enforcement.

Contact the Police.

Call the police immediately to report the accident. Officers will administer sobriety tests or a breathalyzer if they suspect the driver is intoxicated. Their report could be essential evidence for your claim.

Speak to a Houston Drunk Driving Accident Attorney.

Once you’ve addressed your immediate health concerns and documented the scene, contact a qualified Houston drunk driving accident lawyer. At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, we will guide you through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected every step of the way.

Explore more tips on what to do after a car accident here.

Understanding Drunk Driving Accidents in Houston, Texas

Drunk driving is a severe offense that frequently leads to devastating accidents. It violates a driver’s duty of care to others on the road, often resulting in severe injuries or death. 

Victims of these accidents have the right to pursue compensation through insurance claims or personal injury lawsuits. However, navigating the legal system can be challenging without the right representation.

DeHoyos Accident Attorneys specializes in drunk driving accident cases. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and will aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve, whether through a negotiated settlement or litigation in court.Learn more about personal injury claims here.

What rights do drunk-driving victims in Houston have?

Anyone who suffers injuries due to the negligence or wrongdoing of other road users has the right to claim damages. A duty of care to others is expected on the roads and drunk driving is a clear breach of that duty.

As such, if you have been injured, you have the right to seek compensation by filing an insurance claim with the drunk driver’s auto insurance company and/or a legal claim in civil court for personal injury.

Even when the negligence of the other driver may seem clear, actually receiving compensation is rarely straightforward. In many cases, the insurance company attempts to shift some of the blame away from its client.

The experienced drunk driving lawyers at the DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, PLLC understand the best strategies for communicating with insurance companies.

We will protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. We never settle for less. After an accident, you should be recovering from your injuries and not worrying about progressing your legal claim. We look after that for you.

What are typical drunk driving behaviors?

Certain types of driving behaviors are common in drunk-driving incidents. These include:

Drunk drivers tend to exhibit erratic behaviors that increase the risk of accidents. Recognizing these behaviors can be critical in building a strong case against the at-fault driver. 

Common signs of drunk driving include:

Swerving between lanes

A drunk driver may struggle to maintain a steady course.

Overuse of brakes

Slamming on the brakes frequently, even when unnecessary, can indicate impaired judgment.

Ignoring traffic signals

Drunk drivers may run red lights or stop signs.

Driving well below the speed limit

A common sign of impaired reaction times.

Exceeding the speed limit

Conversely, some drunk drivers drive recklessly fast.

Failing to use lights or signals 

Forgetting basic driving protocols like turning on headlights or using turn signals.

These behaviors not only the driver but everyone on the road. If you’ve witnessed these signs before your accident, they can help demonstrate the other driver’s intoxication.

What types of crashes are caused by drunk drivers?

Drunk driving can lead to various types of crashes, many of which result in severe injuries or fatalities. Some of the most common types of drunk driving accidents include:

Head-on Collisions

Due to impaired judgment, drunk drivers often veer into oncoming traffic, leading to devastating head-on collisions.

Rear-End Collisions

Intoxicated drivers may not react quickly enough to slow traffic, causing rear-end accidents.

Rollover Accidents

Impaired vehicle control can result in rollovers, especially at high speeds.

Pedestrian Accidents

Drunk drivers may fail to notice pedestrians crossing the street, leading to tragic pedestrian accidents.

Wrong-Way Accidents

Driving the wrong way on one-way streets or highways is another dangerous behavior often seen in drunk driving cases.

If you’ve experienced one of these accidents, a Houston drunk driving accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation for your injuries.

Steps we will take for your drunk driving accident claim

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, PLLC, we follow a thorough process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. 

Here’s how we approach drunk driving accident claims:

1. Investigating the Incident

We will thoroughly investigate the accident’s circumstances, including reviewing police reports, gathering witness statements, and obtaining any available surveillance footage.

2. Gathering Evidence

Preserving evidence, such as photos from the accident scene and medical records, is essential. We’ll also work to obtain blood alcohol content (BAC) test results or field sobriety test reports, which can strengthen your case.

3. Communicating with Insurance Companies

We will handle all communications with the insurance companies involved, ensuring that they don’t unfairly reduce or deny your claim.

4. Negotiating a Fair Settlement

While many cases are settled out of court, we’ll push for the maximum possible settlement. If the insurance company is unwilling to offer fair compensation, we are prepared to take your case to trial.

Possible types of compensation in drunk driving injury cases

Victims of drunk driving accidents can pursue several types of damages, depending on the severity of their injuries. Compensation may include:

Medical Expenses 

Covering both past and future medical treatments.

Lost Wages 

Compensation for time missed at work due to the accident and any future lost earning potential.

Pain and Suffering

This refers to compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.

Disability or Disfigurement 

Compensation for long-term or permanent injuries that affect your quality of life.

Punitive Damages 

In cases where the drunk driver was grossly negligent, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter future misconduct.

To learn more about types of compensation in injury cases, visit our personal injury FAQ.

Start by booking a free consultation or call (832) 753-5908.

Types of Injuries and Damages

Drunk driving accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-threatening conditions. Here are some common types of injuries and damages that victims may suffer:

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries are among the most serious consequences of a drunk driving accident. These injuries can result in long-term cognitive impairment, memory loss, and permanent disability.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis. Victims of these injuries often face lifelong physical challenges and may require extensive rehabilitation.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries are not always immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated. These include damage to internal organs like the liver, spleen, or lungs.

Soft-Tissue Injuries

Soft-tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and tears of ligaments or muscles, are common in car accidents. While not always visible, these injuries can cause long-lasting pain and mobility issues.

Broken Bones

Fractures and broken bones are frequently sustained in serious car accidents, especially in high-speed collisions. Recovery from broken bones can be lengthy, often requiring surgery and physical therapy.

Psychological Injuries

Accidents caused by drunk drivers can leave victims with psychological injuries such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Emotional trauma can be just as debilitating as physical injuries.

How to Prevent Drunk Driving in Houston

Drunk driving is preventable, and there are several proactive steps you can take to reduce the risk:

Don’t Get Drunk

The simplest way to avoid drunk driving is not to overconsume alcohol in situations where you might need to drive. Drink responsibly and know your limits.

Choose a Designated Driver if You Plan to be Drinking

If you know you’ll be drinking, arrange for a designated driver ahead of time. A sober driver ensures that everyone gets home safely.

Get an Uber or Taxi

If a designated driver isn’t available, opt for an Uber, Lyft, or a taxi. With ridesharing apps widely available, there’s no reason to get behind the wheel after drinking.

Why hire Ryan DeHoyos as your Houston drunk driving accident injury lawyer?

Ryan A. DeHoyos has been an established face in the courtrooms of Houston for over a decade. In recent years, he has represented local families affected by personal accident injuries in the city and the surrounding areas. Ryan went to South Texas School of Law and graduated with a Doctor of Jurisprudence in 2009.

Upon graduation, Ryan worked for a local law firm and several large businesses to hone his litigation and trial skills, and today he uses this experience and his holistic understanding of legal matters to obtain favorable results for his clients.

His knowledge and understanding of the local court system, the associated procedures, and the personnel involved can benefit your case. When you choose Ryan DeHoyos to manage your case, you can expect the following:

A Compassionate and Focused Approach 

Ryan takes a client-centered approach, ensuring that your needs are always prioritized.

Tenacious Negotiations 

He will aggressively negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurance company to secure the best possible settlement for you.

Transparent Communication 

Ryan will keep you informed at every stage of the legal process, offering clear and straightforward advice.

Recognized Expertise

Ryan is a “Rising Star” recognized by Super Lawyers, and he is well-versed in handling complex cases involving drunk driving accidents.

Houston Drunk Driving Accident Statistics

Drunk driving continues to be a significant problem in Houston, contributing to numerous accidents, injuries, and fatalities. 

Below is a breakdown of drunk driving accidents in Harris County and the greater Houston area based on available data from the Texas Department of Transportation and local news sources:

Year	Total DUI Accidents	DUI Fatalities	Serious Injuries
2020	1,400	330	500
2021	1,520	350	540
2022	1,530	370	570

According to reports, Harris County consistently ranks as one of the top counties in Texas for DUI-related fatalities, accounting for a significant portion of the state’s annual DUI deaths.

Houston Drunk Driving Accidents Lawyer Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Should I Do Immediately After a Drunk Driving Accident?

Suppose you’ve been in a drunk driving accident. In that case, the first step is to seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Afterward, contact the police to file an accident report and exchange insurance information with the other driver. Lastly, consult a Houston drunk driving accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.

2. How Do I Prove the Other Driver Was Drunk?

Evidence such as police reports, eyewitness statements, and results from a breathalyzer or field sobriety tests can be used to prove the other driver was intoxicated. A Houston drunk driving accident lawyer will help gather this evidence to support your claim.

3. Can I Still Get Compensation If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

Yes, Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule. You can still recover compensation if you were less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.

Contact a Houston Drunk Driving Accidents Lawyer for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Contact Ryan DeHoyos at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, PLLC, for a free consultation and find out how we can help you pursue justice. Call us today at (832) 753-5908 or complete our online contact form.

Ryan DeHoyos is ready to help.We help people throughout the Houston area claim the compensation they deserve from accidents. As well as Houston, we serve The Woodlands, Katy, McAllen, Harlingen, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Pearland, and Sugarland areas.

Houston Drunk Driving Accidents Infographic