How Common Drunk Driving Accidents Are in Houston

If you live in Houston, you might have wondered what the city's rate of drunk driving accidents is. The numbers are staggering, and you might wonder if you are in danger. Here is some information that will help you make the decision.

Statistics

Drunk driving accidents are a huge concern in Houston, Texas. According to statistics, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is the most common cause of deadly car crashes in Houston. Drunk drivers are involved in more traffic collisions than in any other city in the United States.

Despite several initiatives to reduce the problem, the number of drunk drivers continues to grow. Houston has been ranked the worst place in the country for drivers since 2011.

Statistics also show that Texas leads the nation in deadly crashes. For example, the number of fatal DWI accidents in Houston exceeds the national average.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tracks fatal drunk driving accidents in 12 metropolitan areas. Of these areas, Harris County led the state in the number of DWI fatalities in 2012.

Other statistics from NHTSA reveal that in 2010, the number of drunk driving accidents in the Houston area was more than 5,000. Since then, the number of drunk driving accidents has increased by more than 60 percent.

Although these numbers are impressive, many people still die on Texas roads. This is despite a decrease in the overall number of vehicle miles traveled.

The worst thing about Houston's drunk driving problem is that it is not improving. Even though Houston is a major city in the Lone Star State, its law enforcement resources are lacking. However, there are steps that you can take to protect yourself from impaired drivers.

For one, you can take the keys to your vehicle. Then, take advantage of ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft. These apps have helped lower the number of drunk drivers on the road.

Alcohol impairs a person's muscle coordination, reasoning, and reflexes. If you decide to drink and drive, avoid the weekends and other times of the day that are known for increasing drunk driving collisions.

Finally, the most important thing to remember is that you do not need a DUI to cause a crash. Speeding, tailgating, and reckless driving all contribute to fatal crashes.

Penalties for drunk driving

Drunk driving in Texas significantly impacts the lives of other drivers and passengers. It is also one of the leading causes of death on the roads in the state. Tens of thousands of Texans are arrested each year for drunk driving.

The penalties for drunk driving are harsh. First-time offenders may be punished with a fine of up to $2,000 or even jail for up to six months. Second-time offenders may face fines of up to $8,500 and up to 30 days in jail. Depending on the circumstances, third-time offenders can be charged with a third-degree felony.

Aside from jail time, drunk drivers can be punished with a license suspension. They can also be penalized with punitive damages. A judge awards these damages to punish the driver.

First-time DWI offenders may also pay $1,000 or $2,000 annually for three years. They may also be placed on probation, have their driver's license suspended, or have to attend special educational programs.

For more serious offenses, such as intoxication assault, the punishments are more severe. An intoxication assault involving a traumatic brain injury is a second-degree felony. If the victim dies from the crash, the charge can be enhanced to a third-degree felony.

Third-degree felony charges can also result in an ignition interlock device, which can be up to two years. A first-time DWI arrest can result in a minimum of three days in jail.

There are a variety of other potential criminal penalties, depending on the circumstances. You must contact a lawyer if you are accused of DUI. Having an experienced drunk driving attorney fighting your case can help ensure that you protect your legal rights.

You should also be aware that Texas DUI laws are more strict than in neighboring states. These penalties are imposed on anyone with a blood alcohol content of over 0.08 percent. Driving with a child passenger under 15 is also considered a felony in the state.

Ride-sharing is a safer option for drunk drivers

A study published by the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that ride-sharing is a better way to get around town. According to the study, the biggest drawback to using ride-sharing is the need for more privacy. However, the good news is that it offers a safer option for drunk drivers.

It also has the power to make the transportation system more accessible and affordable. Making the commute less stressful can go a long way toward preventing accidents and crashes. The same goes for the health benefits of a shared transportation platform.

One study found that a ride-sharing service can reduce alcohol-related injuries by 18 percent in one New Jersey city. And while that may not sound like a lot, it's the equivalent of reducing the number of car crashes by a factor of ten.

The study also found that ride-sharing is not only safer than driving drunk, but it's also a more cost-effective way to get around. There are a few ride-sharing programs, such as Lyft and Uber. Each of these companies has its pros and cons, but overall the results were positive.

While it needs to be clarified whether or not ride-sharing is a good idea, the study showed that the program mentioned above is the most effective alternative to driving under the influence. Other studies have shown that drivers relying on ride-sharing services have a much lower risk of getting in a crash.

Doing a little research is the best way to determine if ride-sharing is a better choice than driving. For example, the DOT has a database of over 1 million drivers and members of various ride-sharing companies. This can help determine which company or organization offers the most competitive rates and incentives. In addition, the agency also works to educate the public on the risks of impaired driving and ways to avoid it.

Regardless of the exact method you use to get around town, it's a good idea to know what you're doing, especially if you're in the prime age group.

Collecting evidence from a drunk driver

If you are involved in a drunk driver accident in Houston, there are steps you can take to collect evidence that will help you prove your case. This is particularly important because alcohol impairs your ability to think, react, and perceive information.

After an accident, you should call the police to report the incident. The police will gather as much information as possible from you and other witnesses. They may be able to identify the driver and provide you with the vehicle registration number. You can then request a copy of the police report later.

Once you have been injured in a car accident, you should seek medical attention. If you are injured, you may have to miss time at work or have surgery. During your recovery, you should keep records of your injuries. You can claim lost wages, therapies, and other expenses as you heal.

You should seek legal advice if you are involved in a drunk driving accident. A qualified drunk driving accident attorney can assist you in understanding your rights.

A good lawyer can protect you from being denied compensation for your injuries. He can also identify other parties that are liable for your losses. It's not uncommon for a victim of a drunk driving accident to have to pay for the loss of income.

The damages you receive are both compensatory and punitive. Punitive damages are aimed at punishing the drunk driver. In addition to compensation, you can also seek restitution for the pain you endured.

Whether you are filing a personal injury claim or a criminal case, you must gather evidence. The more witnesses you have, the more likely you are to find the liable party. Taking photos of the scene of the wreck can also help you preserve evidence.

In some cases, getting the other driver's license and vehicle registration number is essential. Obtain copies of any citations that were issued for the accident. Similarly, you should obtain the other driver's blood test results and contact information.

Whether you are suing a drunk driver for personal injury or a criminal case, you must have sufficient proof. Having an attorney can slow the investigation of your case. However, in the end, you will be able to get the compensation you need.