Can you sue another driver for drunk driving in Texas?
In the state of Texas, if you have been injured after being hit by a drunk driver, you have a legal right to hold that person accountable for your injuries, pain and suffering, and other damages. Your Houston accident lawyer will fight for your rights and will see to it that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Is it worth suing a drunk driver?
While drunk drivers can face serious criminal charges, with penalties including restitution and jail time, they can also face civil liability if they are sued by their victims. If you or a loved one is injured or killed by a drunk driver, a civil suit may be your best path to recover damages for your losses.
What is the punishment for a drunk driving accident in Houston?
First offense– A fine of up to $2,000, up to 180 days in jail, the suspension of your license for up to two years, and an annual surcharge of up to $2,000 for up to three years. You may be required to install an ignition interlock device and participate in a DWI intervention or education program.
Second offense– After a first offense, a fine of up to $4,000, jail time from one month to one year, license suspension for up to two years, and an annual surcharge of up to $2,000. You may also be required to install an ignition interlock device and participate in a DWI intervention or education program.
Third Offense– A third or subsequent offense can result in a fine of up to $10,000, two to 10 years in prison, license suspension for up to two years, and a surcharge of up to $2,000 assessed per year for three years. An ignition interlock device and a DWI intervention or education program may also be required.
When Should You Contact A Houston Accident Lawyer For Drunk Driving
Should I sue if I was hit by a drunk driver?
People injured by a drunk or intoxicated driver have the right to sue for damages. The perpetrator does not need to be convicted of a DUI before a civil lawsuit can be filed. That’s where an experienced Houston auto accident lawyer can help build your case.
What happens if a drunk driver hits you?
Most cases will hold the driver responsible for compensatory damages to the victim, ensuring they are reimbursed for lost wages, medical expenses, and property damage. They are also liable for less tangible expenses such as pain and suffering or disfigurement.
Will drinking and driving invalidate my car insurance policy?
It won’t necessarily fully invalidate your policy. But if you have an accident while you’ve been drinking, you might find your insurance provider won’t pay out for any injuries you suffer or repairs to your vehicle.
Is it worth suing a drunk driver?
While drunk drivers can face serious criminal charges, with penalties including restitution and jail time, they can also face civil liability if they are sued by their victims. If you or a loved one is injured or killed by a drunk driver, a civil suit may be your best path to recover damages for your losses.
How much can you get for a car accident settlement?
The average settlement amount for a personal injury car accident case in the United States is approximately $22,000.
Can you make an insurance claim for a drunk driving accident?
When a road traffic accident is caused by a drunk driver, it is possible for those who have experienced harm to their health or suffered financial loss to make a claim against a drunk driver. You may claim compensation for your injuries if you can prove that you were injured by a drunk driver.
Can I sue a driver who hit me with no insurance?
Your ability to sue in no-fault states is restricted—you typically can’t sue the other driver unless you suffered serious injuries and/or incurred medical bills over a certain amount. But when the other driver has no insurance, filing a lawsuit can be something of a dead end (more on this later).
What happens when a drunk driver hits your car without insurance?
Call the police and emergency services. Drunk drivers pose a risk to society, so just as you would for any accident, contact the police and emergency services when an accident occurs. The police may want to arrest the driver and prosecute him or her, but that person may need medical attention first.
What happens if someone hits you and you don’t have insurance?
If you were the at-fault driver in the accident and you don’t have insurance, you’ll have to pay out of pocket for any damage or injuries you caused — even though you don’t have coverage, the other driver has the right to recover damages from you, meaning they can sue.
Can I make an insurance claim if hit by an uninsured driver?
You might need to meet a few conditions to be eligible to claim if you’re hit by an uninsured driver like the accident wasn’t your fault. You’ve got the details of the uninsured vehicle and of the driver. You’ve got the contact information of witnesses.
Does insurance cover drunk driving accidents?
But no car insurance policy covers car accidents caused by intentional conduct. … If you cause an accident while you are intoxicated, your auto insurer will at least investigate the circumstances of your crash before it agrees to accept liability for any damages.