The Options Available for Victims of Drunk Driving Accidents in Houston

In 2023 alone, over 2,000 DUI arrests were made in Houston, a stark reminder of the dangers we face on the roads.

Drunk driving has sadly become all too rampant in Houston. The statistics paint an unpleasant picture, showing a 15% increase in drunk driving incidents in the past year alone. This means that each day, people are taking unnecessary risks, putting others in harm's way.

If you find yourself caught in the aftermath of a DUI accident, a Houston drunk driving accident lawyer can be a lifeline in navigating the legal complexities and securing the support you need.

Avenues Of Compensation That Drunk Driving Accident Victims Can Pursue 

If you or someone you know has become a victim of a DUI accident, it's crucial to understand the options available to you. Let’s talk about these options:

Restitution

Restitution is a part of the legal process where the district attorney can ask the court to give money to victims. Usually, this money is for covering medical bills, but it goes beyond just money.

Talking openly with the district attorney is important. It's a chance to show them your medical bills and make things smoother.

Civil Personal Injury Claims

Unlike getting money through restitution, filing a civil personal injury lawsuit is more complex. Here, you can ask for money for pain, scarring, future medical needs, physical problems, lost wages, and even extra punishment for the at-fault party.

Child Support

If a drunk driver causes a death, the surviving kids can get help through child support payments. This happens if the drunk driver is found guilty of intoxication manslaughter. This compensation is like a safety net for those left behind to deal with everything after a drunk driving tragedy.

Crime Victim’s Compensation

For victims who've been through violent crimes like DWI incidents, there's the Texas Crime Victim’s Compensation Fund. To get help, the crime must've happened in Texas; the victim shouldn't be part of the crime, and they must be a U.S. resident.

This fund isn't just about money; it's about understanding how tough it is emotionally for the victims. Victims usually have three years from when the crime happened to ask for help.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

Holding the person responsible accountable goes beyond just seeking compensation. It's about sending a message that such reckless behavior has consequences.

But the question often arises – who can be held liable?

The Driver 

This is the most obvious liable party. A Houston drunk driving accident lawyer can help you build a strong case against the driver, ensuring they face the full legal repercussions of their actions.

Employer of the Drunk Driver

If the drunk driver was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident, their employer may also be held liable. For example, if a delivery driver causes an accident while intoxicated, their employer could be held responsible.

Third Parties

In certain cases, the bar, restaurant, or individual who served alcohol to the intoxicated driver may also be held liable. This is known as dram shop liability, and it applies when the establishment knew or should have known that the driver was intoxicated.

Wrapping Up

Facing the mess of a drunk driving accident is tough, but knowing your options can make it a bit easier. It's not just about laws and money – it's about what you need to heal and move forward.

You have a few options available. A lawyer can help you decide which option is best for you. They can get you the compensation you deserve with their expertise. So trust them to get the compensation while you focus on recovery.