Driving is dangerous, and the number of drunk drivers on the road makes it even worse. When you are injured by a drunk driver, not only do you face the long road of physical recovery, but often you face an uncertain financial future due to mounting medical costs, rehabilitation, repair bills, and lost wages.
If you or a loved one were injured by a drunk driver. Contact one of the experienced Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers at Khattar Law, PC, and get the compensation you deserve.
Drunk Driving Accidents Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 10,511 people died in alcohol-related driving accidents in 2018. Of these fatalities, 1,439 suffered in Texas.
Even considering the sizable population in Texas, these numbers are shockingly high. This unfortunate disparity is further evidenced by the data showing that nationwide 28.8% of all driving fatalities were alcohol-impaired, whereas, in Texas, the percentage has skyrocketed to 39.5%. Numbers are similarly disheartening for accidents where the driver is under 21.
Common Causes of Drunk Driving Accidents
Safe driving, even under the best of conditions, requires concentration, good judgment, clear vision, and adequate reaction times. When a driver is under the influence of alcohol, all of these necessary facilities can be greatly diminished. Common effects of alcohol consumption include:
- Decreased reaction times
- Poor motor control
- Impaired judgment
- Reduced decision-making ability
- Reduced inhibitions and propensity for risky behavior
- Decreased visual acuity
Any one of these can impede a person’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Taken together, the effects make the chances of an accident much more likely.
Common Injuries Suffered in a Drunk Driving Accident
As with any motor vehicle accident, the risk of serious injury resulting from a drunk driving accident is quite real. Injuries can run the gamut from minor to severe and commonly include:
- Neck and back injury
- Traumatic brain injury
- Broken bones
- Abrasions and lacerations
- Burns
Drunk Driving Accident FAQs
Q: Who is liable for damages arising out of a drunk driving accident
A: In addition to the drunk driver, numerous parties may bear some financial responsibility for damages you incurred. Depending upon the circumstances this can include the driver’s insurance company, the driver’s employer if he or she was on the clock or in a company car, the bar or restaurant that overserved the driver, and a government entity who failed to maintain safe road conditions.
Q: What compensation am I entitled to?
A: If you have been injured in a drunk driving accident, you may be entitled to actual and punitive damages including:
- Current and future medical bills
- Loss of enjoyment
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Disfigurement
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
Q: Should I accept the offer of the drunk driver’s insurance company?
A: If you have been contacted by the insurance company representing the drunk driver, you should consult with an experienced drunk driving accident attorney to discuss your rights before accepting any settlement. Early settlement offers are often low and fall far short of compensating victims for the totality of their losses.
Q: If the drunk driver who injured me is charged with DWI, will I receive compensation from that case?
A: Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a criminal charge and even if the defendant is convicted, victims are not compensated by criminal trials. To recover compensation, you may need to file a civil suit against the driver, his or her insurance company, and any other responsible party.
Contact an Experienced Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Khattar Law is a law firm specializing in representing those who have been injured or killed by drunk drivers. They pride themselves on getting convictions for drunk driving offenses.
If you or a loved one have been injured in an alcohol-related auto accident. Contact the experienced lawyers at Khattar Law, PC today. Dial (210) 923-1234 and fill out our contact form.