Harris County Ranks Among the Highest in the Country for Drunk Driving Fatalities

Statistically speaking, Harris County is among one of the worst in the United States when it comes to drunk driving accidents and deaths. As a result, countless lives have been affected or lost to an otherwise completely preventable accident. 

What is Drunk Driving? 

Drunk driving is the act of operating a motor vehicle while exceeding the legal amount of alcohol in the bloodstream. In Texas, the legal limit or blood alcohol concentration (“BAC”) for people 21 and older to drink and still be able to drive is 0.08%. 

How to Spot a Drunk Driver 

Here are some signs to look out for when identifying a drunk driver on the road: 

•   Swerving in and out of lanes 
•   Not using turn signals 
•   Erratic braking  
•   Tailgating 
•   Driving slower than the speed limit 
•   Driving without headlights at night 
•   Ignoring road signs 
•   Accelerating and decelerating erratically 
•   Driving on the wrong side of the road 
•   Narrowly avoiding curbs or sidewalks 

If you witness any of these actions, the other driver could be intoxicated. Remember to keep your distance from the vehicle and call the Texas Department of Safety’s drunk driver toll-free hotline, 1-800-525-5555, when it is safe to do so. If you believe the situation poses an immediate danger, call 911. 

Who May Be Liable Under Texas Law in a Drunk Driving Collision 

In Texas, if a motorist is struck by a drunk driver, that injured party has several potential claims they can pursue.  First, the injured party has a potential civil claim against the drunk driver whereby the party may seek compensation for civil damages such as: 

•   medical bills,  
•   lost wages 
•   pain and suffering 
•   mental anguish 
•   physical disfigurement 
•   physical impairment 
•   wrongful death damages, such as funeral expenses 
•   court costs 
•   pre-judgment and post-judgment interest  
•   exemplary or punitive damages, if seeking gross negligence.   

However, the injured party may also be able to pursue a claim against the facility that over-served the drunk driver.  Oftentimes, these claims are brought against restaurants, bars, country clubs, etc.  In Texas, these types of claims are known as Dram Shop claims.   

These claims are very complicated and you need an attorney who has successfully handled these types of cases in the past. 

How to Prevent Drunk Driving 

• Here are some helpful tips you can use to stop drunk driving: 
• If you plan on drinking, formulate a plan BEFORE you start consuming alcohol. You’re sense of judgment decreases the more you drink 
• If you’re with a group of friends, pick someone who will not be drinking to be the designated driver 
• If you have been drinking, call a sober friend, taxi or ride-sharing service to give you a ride 
• If you see someone who has been drinking attempt to drive, offer to take their keys from them 

Reach out to an Attorney Today 

Drunk driving accidents should never happen. If you or someone you love has been affected by a drunk driving accident, you need a lawyer who will fight for you.  At Ramsey Law Group, we will not rest until you get the justice you deserve. Don’t hesitate to speak with one of our experienced drunk driving and dram shop lawyers today at  www.ramseylawpc.com.