If you or someone you know has been involved in a DUI truck accident in Houston, the consequences can be severe. Not only do you have to deal with the physical and emotional trauma of the accident, but you may also face criminal charges and legal complications. In such a situation, it is crucial to seek the expertise of a qualified Houston DUI truck accident lawyer who can protect your rights and help you navigate through the legal process.
Truck DUI cases are unique and require specialized knowledge of both DUI laws and commercial trucking regulations. Our law firm Joel A. Gordon possesses a deep understanding of these intricacies and has successfully defended countless clients facing DUI charges related to truck accidents.
Our experienced attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation, analyzing every aspect of the accident and the evidence against you, to build a strong defense strategy. We will leave no stone unturned in his pursuit of justice and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights.
Truck Accident Statistics in Houston
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2017, there were 944 drunk drivers involved in fatal accidents in Texas, and Houston had the highest number of fatalities from DWI accidents compared to any other metropolitan region in the country.
According to the Houston Police Department, there were 6,063 drunk driving accidents in Houston in 2022, resulting in 253 injuries and 42 deaths. This is a significant increase from 2021, when there were 5,213 drunk driving accidents, 196 injuries, and 35 deaths.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that drunk driving is the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States. In 2020, there were 11,654 people killed in drunk driving accidents nationwide.
The NHTSA also reports that drunk driving crashes are more likely to be fatal than crashes that do not involve alcohol. In 2020, 30% of all traffic fatalities involved drunk driving.
Houston DUI Truck Accident Lawyer
Effects of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and Drugs on a Commercial Driver’s License
A DWI can have significant effects on a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in Texas. If a CDL holder is convicted of a DWI, their CDL can be suspended for a minimum of one year by the Texas Department of Public Safety. It’s important to note that the legal alcohol limit for CDL holders is lower than for personal drivers.
If a driver with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) gets a DWI, they face strict consequences, including a minimum one-year suspension of their CDL. Furthermore, CDL drivers are held to a lower legal alcohol limit of 0.04%, compared to 0.08% for personal vehicle drivers. In addition to losing their CDL, offenders face penalties, fines, jail time, probation, and alcohol education classes.
Aside from the CDL suspension, DWI convictions can also result in jail time, fines, participation in an alcohol awareness program, and regular driver’s license suspension. Additionally, subsequent DWI convictions can lead to a lifetime disqualification of the CDL.
To navigate these consequences and seek a more favorable outcome, it is advisable to consult with a defense lawyer who specializes in DWI cases. A Houston DUI truck accident lawyer can investigate the case, gather evidence of impairment and fault, and build a strong case to hold the driver accountable and seek compensation for the victims.
Injuries You May Suffer in Houston DUI Truck Accidents
In DUI (Driving Under the Influence) truck accidents in Houston, injuries can be particularly severe due to the size and weight of commercial trucks involved. Here’s an overview of injuries that can occur in such accidents:
- Catastrophic Injuries: DUI truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and severe internal injuries. The sheer force of a truck colliding with other vehicles can lead to life-changing consequences.
- Fatalities: Tragically, DUI truck accidents can result in fatalities. The combination of impaired driving and the massive size of commercial trucks can have devastating consequences for occupants of smaller vehicles.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Victims may suffer from broken bones and fractures due to the impact of the accident. These injuries can require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Burns: In accidents involving fuel or hazardous materials, there is a risk of burns and chemical exposure, which can cause serious injuries and complications.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Whiplash, contusions, and soft tissue injuries are common in such accidents and can lead to long-term pain and discomfort.
- Psychological Trauma: Survivors of DUI truck accidents may also experience psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
- Legal Action: Injured individuals and their families may pursue legal action against the impaired truck driver and their employer to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Victims of DUI truck accidents need to seek immediate medical attention and consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help them navigate the legal process and advocate for their rights.
Seeking Compensation After Being Involved in a DUI Truck Accident in Houston
To seek compensation after being injured by a drunk truck driver in Houston, there are several steps you can take:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident. It is important to have documentation of your injuries for your compensation claim.
- Contact Law Enforcement: Report the accident to the police and provide them with all the necessary details about the incident. This will create an official record of the accident, which can be useful when seeking compensation.
- Gather Evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible to support your claim. This may include photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, medical records, and other relevant documentation.
- Please consult with an Attorney: It is advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in truck accidents and DUI cases. They can evaluate your case, guide you through the legal process, and help you seek the compensation you deserve.
- File a Claim: Your attorney will assist you in filing a personal injury claim against the drunk truck driver. They will help you gather all the necessary documentation and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Pursue Legal Action: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your attorney may recommend taking your case to court. They will represent you and fight for your rights in the legal proceedings.
Remember, seeking compensation after being injured by a drunk truck driver can be a complex process. Having an experienced Houston DUI truck accident lawyer by your side can greatly increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Why Choose Joel A. Gordon and Associates for Legal Representation
When you choose Joel A. Gordon and Associates as your truck DUI lawyer, you can expect a comprehensive approach to your case. He will thoroughly investigate every aspect of the accident and the evidence against you to build a strong defense strategy. Joel A. Gordon and Associates will leave no stone unturned in his pursuit of justice and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights.
Moreover, our Houston DUI truck accident lawyer understands the gravity of a DUI truck accident and the potential consequences it can have on your life. He will provide you with compassionate guidance and support throughout the legal process, ensuring that you are well-informed and empowered to make the best decisions for your case.
It is important to remember that being charged with a DUI truck accident does not automatically make you guilty. With the help of our expert attorneys, you can challenge the evidence against you, question the legality of the traffic stop, and explore potential defenses that could lead to a reduction in charges or even a dismissal.