Liability In Drunk Driving Accidents

Everyone knows that you should never drink and drive, yet thousands of accidents happen every year in Texas involving drunk drivers. After an accident caused by a drunk driver, one of the most common questions asked is what people are responsible for the circumstances that led to this terrible scene? At Gilde Law Firm in Houston, our experienced and skilled personal injury lawyers will help you and your loved ones get to the bottom of the case and ensure that everyone liable for the accident is held accountable for their actions.

The Driver

One person that is usually held liable for any injuries caused by a drunk driving accident is the driver. While drivers should never imbibe alcohol and get behind the wheel of a car, if someone does decide to drink it is important to remember that everybody is different. Different people have different tolerance levels to alcohol, and if someone does not know their limits and decides to get behind the wheel they are responsible for whatever results from that action.

One exception to this is if the driver was given an intoxicant unknowingly or unwillingly. In that case, the person who provided them with that substance may be held liable instead for any accidents that happen as a result. An exception also applies to social hosts who knowingly provide alcohol to minors under the age of eighteen years old who then later gets into a drunk driving accident.

Texas Dram Shop Laws

Texas dram shop laws also hold businesses that sell liquor and other alcohol liable if they over serve their patrons. Known as dram shop laws, these laws apply to bars, clubs, taverns, restaurants, and other establishments where alcohol is sold and consumed. Under dram shop liability, any establishment that sells alcohol to someone who is obviously intoxicated at the time of the transaction can be held liable for any harm that is caused by a drunk driving accident.

It is important to note that, with the exception provided earlier, social hosts cannot be held liable for a drunk driving accident. Social hosts refer to someone who is providing alcohol to others at no cost, such as someone hosting friends and family at their home. Even if a social host overserves a guest, they cannot be held liable for the damages caused by a drunk driving accident. To learn more about who may be liable in a drunk driving accident, talk to our office today.

Call or Contact Our Office Today

Drunk driving accidents are tragic and completely avoidable situations, and when a crash does occur it is important that those responsible for the accident be held accountable for their actions. At the Gilde Law Firm in Houston, our knowledgeable and skilled Houston personal injury lawyers are here to help you and your loved ones through this difficult time. To learn more about your legal options, call the office or contact us today to speak with one of our lawyers and schedule a free consultation of your case.

Source:

ncsl.org/research/financial-services-and-commerce/dram-shop-liability-state-statutes.aspx#TX