Driving poses a risk of collision, even in daily tasks. When alcohol enters the picture, the potential dangers grow exponentially. Drunk drivers pose a grave threat to others on the road, as well as pedestrians and passengers in their own car. While those who cause an accident through drunk driving will likely face criminal charges, they can also be held responsible for damages to their victims in civil court.
The legal limit for blood alcohol content in Texas is 0.08, and those with a higher amount of alcohol in their system can be criminally charged with driving under the influence (DUI), sometimes referred to as driving while intoxicated (DWI). According to the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility, more than 30% of fatal accidents in 2012 involved drunk driving. Texas continues to lead the nation with 1,296 drunk driving deaths in 2012. According to MADD, there were more than 25,000 alcohol related crashes in 2012 in Texas alone. These numbers make it clear that drunk driving is responsible for a huge number of injuries and deaths in Texas car accidents.
Houston bears even more serious statistics, accounting for the most alcohol-related fatalities in the state, and in some past years the entire nation. In 2012 alone, 175 people were killed and another 942 seriously injured by drunk driving collisions in Harris County.
For the victims of a car crash with a drunk driver, they may be able to seek compensation for the injuries caused by the wreck.
Costs of a collision with a drunk driver can include:
- Doctor visits and hospital stays
- Long-term or permanent disabilities may require specialized equipment, such as specific car or home modifications
- Lost wages
- Medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, lifts, or crutches
- Medications, both prescription and over-the-counter
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Surgery
Houston Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed through a collision caused by a drunk driver in Harris County, you may have grounds to hold them liable for your financial damages. A Houston drunk driving accident attorney at Nabers Law Firm can help you hold the drunk driver responsible for what you’ve had to endure. We can help guide you through this tough time with as little stress as possible. Call us today to speak to an attorney.