Pearland Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Severe injuries from a car accident can significantly disrupt your life. When the other driver was under the influence of alcohol, the situation became even more complex. 

A Pearland drunk driving accident lawyer at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys can help you navigate the legal challenges and fight to recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

The aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming. Medical bills can pile up quickly, and lost wages due to missed work can add to the financial strain. 

A Pearland drunk driving accident lawyer can manage the legal aspects of your case while you focus on healing. 

We’ll handle communication with insurance companies, gather evidence to prove the other driver’s fault and work tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.

Understanding Drunk Driving Accidents in Pearland

Being involved in a car accident is stressful. Still, when the other driver is intoxicated, the situation becomes even more severe.

A drunk driving accident, also known as a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) accident, occurs when a driver operates a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. 

In Texas, a driver is considered intoxicated if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. This impairment significantly reduces the driver’s ability to react safely, increasing the risk of accidents and serious injuries.

Drunk Driving Accidents Statistics in Pearland

Drunk driving is a serious problem nationwide, and Pearland is no exception. Here are some statistics to consider:

• The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reports that in 2021, there were over 963 drunk driving fatalities in Texas.
• On average, drunk driving claims three lives every day on Texas roadways.

These numbers paint a grim picture, highlighting the devastating consequences of drunk driving.

Drunk Driving Accident Penalties in Texas

A DUI conviction can result in fines, jail time, and a suspended driver’s license. The severity of the penalties will increase for subsequent offenses.

Texas law distinguishes between driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI). DUI is a lesser offense that applies to drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between 0.08% and 0.14%. 

DWI applies to drivers with a BAC of 0.15% or higher, as well as drivers who are intoxicated by drugs or a combination of alcohol and drugs.

Here’s a summary of the penalties for a first-time DUI offense in Texas:

• Fine up to $2,000
• Jail sentence up to 180 days
• Driver’s license suspension for up to 1 year
• Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle

The penalties for subsequent DUI offenses, or a DWI offense, can be much more severe. They can include:

• Higher fines
• Longer jail sentences
• Longer driver’s license suspension
• Mandatory substance abuse treatment
• Community service

Types of Injuries and Damages

The force of a drunk driving accident can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor bumps and bruises to life-altering conditions. If you’ve been injured in a Pearland drunk driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages.

Common Injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe injuries that impact cognitive function, motor skills, and memory.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Drunk driving accidents are a leading cause of spinal cord injuries, which can result in partial or complete paralysis.

Internal Injuries

Internal bleeding and organ damage can be difficult to diagnose immediately following an accident and may require extensive medical treatment.

Soft-Tissue Injuries

Whiplash, sprains, and strains are common soft-tissue injuries caused by car accidents. While they may seem minor initially, they can lead to chronic pain and discomfort.

Broken Bones

Fractures can range from minor hairline cracks to life-threatening breaks. Healing times can vary significantly depending on the severity of the break.

Psychological Injuries

The trauma of a drunk driving accident can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Why Choose DeHoyos Accident Attorneys

In the aftermath of a drunk driving accident, you deserve strong legal representation to fight for the compensation you deserve. Here’s why DeHoyos Accident Attorneys is the right choice for you:

Experience Handling Drunk Driving Accident Cases

Our Pearland drunk driving accident lawyers have a proven track record of successfully handling these complex cases. 

We understand the unique challenges drunk driving accidents present and how to navigate the legal system to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.

Track Record of Success

We have a history of securing significant compensation for victims of drunk driving accidents. 

We will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum amount you are entitled to for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Personalized Approach to Client Representation

We understand that every case is unique, and we take the time to get to know our clients and their needs. 

We will provide you with personalized attention and guidance throughout the legal process, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.

Case Management

We will handle all the complexities of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery. This includes gathering evidence, dealing with insurance companies, negotiating a settlement, or preparing for trial.

Effects of Drunk Driving

Increased Risk of Accidents

Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have significantly impaired reaction times, judgment, and coordination. This drastically increases the likelihood of accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.

Loss of Life

Every year, countless lives are tragically lost due to drunk driving accidents. These accidents leave families shattered and communities mourning.

Serious Injuries

Drunk driving accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor bumps and bruises to life-altering conditions like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal bleeding. 

These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care.

Financial Strain

The medical bills associated with injuries from a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming. Additionally, lost wages due to missed work can put a significant financial strain on victims and their families.

Emotional Trauma

The trauma of a drunk driving accident can have lasting emotional consequences. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

These effects can significantly impact their quality of life.

How To Handle A Drunk Driving Accident In California

Being involved in any car accident can be frightening, and a drunk driving accident can be even more so. Here’s what you should do if you’re ever in this situation:

Ensure Safety

The first priority is to check for any injuries and ensure the safety of yourself and others involved in the accident. If there are serious injuries, call 911 immediately.

Call the Police

Report the accident to the police and request a copy of the police report. This report will be crucial evidence in your case.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries may not be apparent right away.

Gather Evidence

If you are able, take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries (if visible), and any damage to your vehicle. Also, try to get the names and contact information of any witnesses.

Do Not Speak to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company

The insurance company may contact you to get a statement. It’s best to speak with them only after you have consulted with an attorney.

Contact a Pearland Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

An experienced attorney can advise you of your legal rights and options, handle communication with the insurance companies, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

What You Should Avoid After A Drunk Driving Accident

Admitting Fault

Even if the accident scene is chaotic, avoid saying anything that could be construed as admitting fault. Stick to the facts about what happened.

Posting on Social Media

Refrain from posting about the accident on social media. Insurance companies and opposing attorneys may use anything you post against you.

Discussing the Accident with the Other Driver’s Insurance Company

Don’t give a recorded statement or settle your claim with the insurance company without consulting with an attorney. They may try to minimize your injuries or offer a lowball settlement.

Going Without Legal Representation

An experienced Pearland drunk driving accident lawyer can advocate for your best interests, navigate complex legal procedures, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Why Drunk Driving Accidents Happen

Drunk driving accidents are entirely preventable, yet they continue to be a significant problem. Here are some common reasons why people choose to drive under the influence:

Misjudgment

Many people underestimate the impairing effects of alcohol or drugs. They mistakenly believe they are still capable of driving safely.

Poor Planning

Drivers may not plan for a designated driver or alternative transportation after consuming alcohol.

Social Pressure

Some people feel pressured to drink and drive by friends or peers.

Dependency

Individuals struggling with alcohol or drug dependence may drive under the influence despite the risks.

How to Prevent Drunk Driving

Drunk driving accidents are 100% preventable tragedies. Here are some simple steps you can take to ensure everyone’s safety on the road:

Plan Ahead

If you know you’ll be drinking, designate a sober driver before you go out. This person will be responsible for driving you and your group home safely.

Download a Rideshare App

A rideshare app like Uber or Lyft, readily available on your phone, can be a lifesaver. It provides a safe and convenient way to get home after consuming alcohol.

Pace Yourself

If you do choose to drink, do so responsibly. Pace yourself and avoid overconsumption. Remember, even a tiny amount of alcohol can impair your driving ability.

Call a Taxi

Taxis are a traditional and reliable option for getting home safely after a night out.

Never Get Behind the Wheel After Drinking

This may seem obvious, but it’s worth reiterating. Alcohol significantly impairs your judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making driving extremely dangerous.

Looking Out for Others

Offer to be a Designated Driver: If you see a friend or colleague drinking, offer to be their designated driver. This simple act of kindness can prevent a potential tragedy.

Take Away the Keys: If someone who has been drinking insists on driving, take away their keys and offer them a safe ride home.

Pearland Drunk Driving Accident FAQs

What should I do immediately after being involved in a drunk driving accident?

• Ensure Safety: The priority is to check for any injuries and ensure the safety of yourself and others involved. If there are serious injuries, call 911 immediately.
• Call the Police: Report the accident to the police and request a copy of the police report. This report will be crucial evidence in your case.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, getting checked out by a doctor is essential. Some injuries may not be apparent right away.
• Gather Evidence: If you can, take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries (if visible), and any damage to your vehicle. Also, try to get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Do Not Speak to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company: The insurance company may try to contact you to get a statement. It’s best to speak with them only after you have consulted with an attorney.
• Contact a Pearland Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer: An experienced attorney can advise you of your legal rights and options, handle communication with the insurance companies, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

How can I prove that the other driver was drunk at the time of the accident?

There are several ways to prove the other driver was intoxicated, including:

• Police Report: The police report will typically document any signs of intoxication observed by the officer, such as slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, or the odor of alcohol.
• Field Sobriety Test Results: If the police administered field sobriety tests, the results of these tests can be used as evidence.
• Breathalyzer or Blood Test Results: Chemical tests can determine the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) during the accident.
• Witness Testimony: Witness accounts of the other driver’s behavior before or after the accident can be helpful.

What types of compensation am I entitled to in a drunk driving accident case?

In a drunk driving accident case, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including:

• Medical expenses: Past, present, and future medical bills associated with your injuries.
• Lost wages: Compensation for wages you lose due to missed work while recovering from your injuries.
• Reduced earning capacity: If your injuries limit your ability to work in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for lost earning potential.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional pain you’ve endured due to your injuries.
• Property damage: Reimbursement for damage to your vehicle or other property.

A Pearland drunk driving accident lawyer can help you determine the specific damages you may be entitled to in your case.

Is it possible to hold establishments liable for over-serving alcohol to the drunk driver?

In some cases, it may be possible to hold establishments liable for over-serving alcohol to the drunk driver who caused your accident. This is known as dram shop liability. Texas Dram shop laws are complex, so consulting with an attorney is essential to determine if this applies to your situation.

How long do I have to file a claim for a drunk driving accident in Pearland?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is generally two years from the accident date. However, you must consult with an attorney as soon as possible after the accident to ensure you meet all deadlines.

Client Testimonials

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, we are committed to providing our clients with exceptional legal representation and personalized attention throughout their drunk driving accident cases. 

Here are what some of our satisfied clients have to say:

• “The DeHoyos Accident Attorneys team was there for me every step of the way after my accident. They explained everything clearly and kept me informed. They were always available to answer my questions. Thanks to their hard work, I could focus on healing.” – David L., Pearland, TX.
  
• “I never thought I would need a lawyer, but I’m glad I contacted DeHoyos Accident Attorneys. They were understanding and compassionate during a tough time. They secured a fair settlement to help me move forward.” – Jane B., Pearland, TX.
  

These are just a few examples of the positive feedback we receive from our clients. We are proud of the results we achieve and the positive impact we have on the lives of our clients.

Contact the Pearland Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys Today!

Being injured in a drunk driving accident can be life-altering. The physical, emotional, and financial burdens can feel overwhelming. At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, we understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Be sure to get the help you need. Contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys today for a free consultation.