{"id":4799,"date":"2026-01-27T22:58:20","date_gmt":"2026-01-27T22:58:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/?p=4799"},"modified":"2026-02-11T20:10:34","modified_gmt":"2026-02-11T20:10:34","slug":"hit-by-a-drunk-driver","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/hit-by-a-drunk-driver\/","title":{"rendered":"Hit By A Drunk Driver? Here\u2019s What To Do"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\t\t<div id=\"fws_69f63dbf528af\"  data-column-margin=\"default\" data-midnight=\"dark\"  class=\"wpb_row vc_row-fluid vc_row\"  style=\"padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; \"><div class=\"row-bg-wrap\" data-bg-animation=\"none\" data-bg-animation-delay=\"\" data-bg-overlay=\"false\"><div class=\"inner-wrap row-bg-layer\" ><div class=\"row-bg viewport-desktop\"  style=\"\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"row_col_wrap_12 col span_12 dark left\">\n\t<div  class=\"vc_col-sm-8 wpb_column column_container vc_column_container col no-extra-padding inherit_tablet inherit_phone \"  data-padding-pos=\"all\" data-has-bg-color=\"false\" data-bg-color=\"\" data-bg-opacity=\"1\" data-animation=\"\" data-delay=\"0\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"vc_column-inner\" >\n\t\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\n<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element \" >\n\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t<p>If you\u2019ve been hit by a drunk driver in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, or anywhere else in Texas, you may be able to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver, their insurance company, and in some cases even the bar or restaurant that overserved them.<\/p>\n<p>Drunk driving accidents often leave victims dealing with serious injuries, emotional trauma, and sudden financial stress, all because someone else made a reckless decision. But drunk driving accident victims are not powerless.<\/p>\n<p>Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is treated as a serious crime and also serves as strong evidence of negligence in a civil injury claim. In this guide, we explain how Texas law treats these crashes, what actions to take immediately after, and why speaking with a qualified <a title=\"drunk driving accident lawyer\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/texas-drunk-driving-accident-lawyers\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external\">drunk driving accident lawyer<\/a> protects your recovery and your legal case.<\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/hit-by-a-drunk-driver\/#Understanding_Texas_Drunk_Driving_Laws\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Understanding Texas Drunk Driving Laws<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/hit-by-a-drunk-driver\/#What_To_Do_Immediately_After_Being_Hit_By_a_Drunk_Driver\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">What To Do Immediately After Being Hit By a Drunk Driver<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/hit-by-a-drunk-driver\/#Your_Legal_Rights_as_a_Drunk_Driving_Accident_Victim_in_Texas\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Your Legal Rights as a Drunk Driving Accident Victim in Texas<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/hit-by-a-drunk-driver\/#Special_Texas_Laws_That_Can_Affect_Drunk_Driving_Cases\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Special Texas Laws That Can Affect Drunk Driving Cases<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/hit-by-a-drunk-driver\/#How_AK_Law_Firm_Helps_Drunk_Driving_Accident_Victims\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">How AK Law Firm Helps Drunk Driving Accident Victims<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/hit-by-a-drunk-driver\/#FAQ_for_Drunk_Driving_Accident_Victims\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">FAQ for Drunk Driving Accident Victims<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\t\t\t<\/div> \n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div> \n\n\t<div  class=\"vc_col-sm-4 wpb_column column_container vc_column_container col no-extra-padding inherit_tablet inherit_phone \"  data-padding-pos=\"all\" data-has-bg-color=\"false\" data-bg-color=\"\" data-bg-opacity=\"1\" data-animation=\"\" 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Under <a title=\"Texas Penal Code \u00a749.04\" href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/?tab=1&amp;code=PE&amp;chapter=PE.49&amp;artSec=49.04\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Texas Penal Code \u00a749.04<\/a>, it is a crime to operate a motor vehicle while intoxicated. Intoxication is defined as having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or not having the normal use of mental or physical faculties because of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances.<\/p>\n<p>Proof of intoxication often becomes a central piece of evidence in a drunk driving victim\u2019s civil claim. Police reports, breath or blood test results, and officer observations can all be used to establish fault and support a demand for compensation.<\/p>\n<h3>Criminal Case vs. Civil Injury Claim<\/h3>\n<p>If you\u2019ve been hit by a drunk driver, there are usually two separate legal paths. The first is the criminal DWI case, brought by the State of Texas and focused on punishment, such as fines, jail time, probation, or license suspension. This case is about enforcing the law, not compensating the victim.<\/p>\n<p>The second path is a civil personal injury claim, which is brought by the injured person. This claim seeks financial compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses caused by the crash. You do not have to wait for the criminal case to finish, and you do not need a conviction to file a civil claim. Even if the drunk driver is never charged or is acquitted, you may still be able to recover damages with the help of a <a title=\"houston personal injury lawyer\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/houston-personal-injury-lawyer\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external\">personal injury lawyer<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Civil cases operate under a lower burden of proof than criminal cases, which is why many drunk driving accident victims are still successful in recovering compensation even when criminal outcomes are uncertain.<\/p>\n<h3>Dram Shop Liability and Overserving Bars<\/h3>\n<p><a title=\"Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code \u00a72.02\" href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/tx\/alcoholic-beverage-code\/alco-bev-sect-2-02\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code \u00a72.02<\/a> recognizes that drunk drivers are not always the only ones at fault. Under the Texas Dram Shop Act, bars, restaurants, and liquor stores can sometimes be held liable if they overserve an obviously intoxicated customer who later causes a crash.<\/p>\n<p>For a dram shop claim to succeed, a drunk driving accident victim must generally prove that the establishment served alcohol to someone who was clearly intoxicated and that overserving was a proximate cause of the accident.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"img-with-aniamtion-wrap \" data-max-width=\"100%\" data-max-width-mobile=\"default\" data-shadow=\"none\" data-animation=\"none\" >\n      <div class=\"inner\">\n        <div class=\"hover-wrap\"> \n          <div class=\"hover-wrap-inner\">\n            <img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-with-animation skip-lazy \" data-delay=\"0\" height=\"1228\" width=\"1840\" data-animation=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/bar-keys.jpg\" alt=\"man stopping his friend from driving drunk by keeping his car keys away at the bar\" srcset=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/bar-keys.jpg 1840w, https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/01\/bar-keys-300x200.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/01\/bar-keys-1024x683.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/01\/bar-keys-768x513.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/01\/bar-keys-1536x1025.jpg.webp 1536w, https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/01\/bar-keys-18x12.jpg.webp 18w, https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/01\/bar-keys-900x600.jpg.webp 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1840px) 100vw, 1840px\" title=\"-\">\n          <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element \" >\n\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_To_Do_Immediately_After_Being_Hit_By_a_Drunk_Driver\"><\/span>What To Do Immediately After Being Hit By a Drunk Driver<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element \" >\n\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t<p>Taking the proper steps after being hit by a drunk driver protects your health and the success of your future injury claim.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 1: Call 911 and Stay at the Scene<\/h3>\n<p>Always call 911 immediately after the crash and request both police and emergency medical assistance. Even if your injuries seem minor, having law enforcement respond creates an official record of what happened. Unless it is unsafe to remain where you are, stay at the scene until officers tell you it is okay to leave.<\/p>\n<p>Tell the responding officers if you notice any signs suggesting the other driver may be intoxicated. This can include the smell of alcohol, slurred speech, stumbling, bloodshot eyes, or open containers in the vehicle. Officers can document these observations in the police report, which is often key evidence in drunk driving accidents.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 2: Get Medical Care Right Away<\/h3>\n<p>Some injuries, such as concussions, internal injuries, or soft-tissue damage, do not always cause immediate symptoms. Delaying treatment can put your health at risk and may give insurance companies an excuse to question the seriousness of your injuries.<\/p>\n<p>Prompt medical evaluation also creates records that clearly link your injuries to the crash. These records are essential when pursuing compensation as a drunk driving accident victim\u2014especially if your condition worsens over time or requires ongoing treatment.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene<\/h3>\n<p>Try to gather as much evidence as possible if you\u2019re physically able to do so. Take photos or videos of vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible alcohol containers inside or around the drunk driver\u2019s vehicle.<\/p>\n<p>You should also collect contact information from witnesses and make notes about anything you observed, such as the driver\u2019s behavior, statements they made, or whether officers conducted field sobriety or breath tests. These details can fade quickly from memory, but they may later help establish fault in a drunk driving accident claim.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element \" >\n\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your_Legal_Rights_as_a_Drunk_Driving_Accident_Victim_in_Texas\"><\/span>Your Legal Rights as a Drunk Driving Accident Victim in Texas<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element \" >\n\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t<p>Texas law gives drunk driving accident victims the right to pursue compensation for the harm they suffer. In most cases, this involves filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit against the impaired driver. Depending on the circumstances, other parties may also be liable.<\/p>\n<p>A knowledgeable <a title=\"Houston car accident lawyer\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/houston-car-accident-lawyer\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external\">car accident lawyer<\/a> can explain your options, communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, and work to recover damages that fully reflect the impact the crash has had on your life.<\/p>\n<h3>Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Drunk Driver?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes. In nearly all cases, you can bring a civil personal injury claim against a drunk driver whose intoxication caused the crash. This is true regardless of whether the driver is convicted in criminal court. Civil claims focus on compensating the victim rather than punishing the offender.<\/p>\n<p>Texas law may also allow drunk driving accident victims to seek punitive, or exemplary, damages. These damages are designed to punish especially reckless behavior and deter similar conduct in the future. Driving while intoxicated is often viewed as gross negligence, which can support a claim for these additional damages.<\/p>\n<p>If your injuries were the result of an <a title=\"Should I Get A Lawyer For A Car Accident That Wasn\u2019t My Fault?\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/should-i-get-lawyer-car-accident-not-my-fault\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external\">accident caused by another driver<\/a>, an attorney can help determine which damages may apply in your case.<\/p>\n<h3>Types of Compensation Available<\/h3>\n<p>If you\u2019ve been hit by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of losses, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Medical bills and future medical treatment<\/li>\n<li>Lost wages and reduced earning capacity<\/li>\n<li>Property damage to your vehicle and personal belongings<\/li>\n<li>Pain and suffering<\/li>\n<li>Emotional distress and mental anguish<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Surviving family members may be eligible for wrongful death damages in fatal cases. In some situations, courts may also award punitive damages to punish egregious drunk driving and discourage others from engaging in similar behavior.<\/p>\n<h3>Crime Victims\u2019 Compensation and Other Resources<\/h3>\n<p>In addition to insurance claims and civil lawsuits, drunk driving accident victims in Texas may qualify for help through the <a title=\"Texas Attorney General\u2019s Crime Victims\u2019 Compensation Program\" href=\"https:\/\/www.texasattorneygeneral.gov\/crime-victims\/crime-victims-compensation-program\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Texas Attorney General\u2019s Crime Victims\u2019 Compensation Program<\/a>. This program is designed to assist victims of violent crimes, including DWI crashes, with certain out-of-pocket expenses.<\/p>\n<p>Eligible expenses can include medical bills, counseling costs, lost wages, and, in fatal cases, funeral and burial expenses, up to statutory limits. This program does not replace a personal injury or wrongful death claim. Instead, it is intended to provide additional financial support while a civil case or insurance claim is pending.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"img-with-aniamtion-wrap \" data-max-width=\"100%\" data-max-width-mobile=\"default\" data-shadow=\"none\" data-animation=\"none\" >\n      <div class=\"inner\">\n        <div class=\"hover-wrap\"> \n          <div class=\"hover-wrap-inner\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-with-animation skip-lazy \" data-delay=\"0\" height=\"1032\" width=\"1548\" data-animation=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/attorney-office.jpg\" alt=\"inside an attorney&#039;s office\" srcset=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/attorney-office.jpg 1548w, https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/01\/attorney-office-300x200.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/01\/attorney-office-1024x683.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/01\/attorney-office-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/01\/attorney-office-1536x1024.jpg.webp 1536w, https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/01\/attorney-office-18x12.jpg.webp 18w, https:\/\/akfirm.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/01\/attorney-office-900x600.jpg.webp 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1548px) 100vw, 1548px\" title=\"-\">\n          <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element \" >\n\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Special_Texas_Laws_That_Can_Affect_Drunk_Driving_Cases\"><\/span>Special Texas Laws That Can Affect Drunk Driving Cases<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element \" >\n\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t<p>In 2024, 1,053 people were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes involving a driver under the influence of alcohol. According to the <a title=\"TxDOT Texas Motor Vehicle Traffic Crash Facts 2024\" href=\"https:\/\/www.txdot.gov\/content\/dam\/docs\/division\/trf\/crash-records\/2024\/01.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">TxDOT Texas Motor Vehicle Traffic Crash Facts 2024<\/a>, these deaths accounted for approximately 25.37% of all motor vehicle fatalities in Texas that year.<\/p>\n<p>Below are some of the Texas laws that directly affect how drunk driving accidents are investigated and compensated:<\/p>\n<h3>Dram Shop Claims Against Bars and Alcohol Providers<\/h3>\n<p>When a licensed bar, restaurant, or alcohol provider overserves someone who is obviously intoxicated, Texas law may allow injured victims to pursue a dram shop claim. These claims are separate from the case against the drunk driver and can significantly increase the compensation available to a drunk driving accident victim.<\/p>\n<p>Dram shop cases often require prompt investigation. Witness interviews, credit card receipts, surveillance video, and employee testimony can all play a role in proving that an establishment continued serving alcohol despite clear signs of intoxication.<\/p>\n<h3>Bentley\u2019s Law and Child Support After Fatal Drunk Driving Crashes<\/h3>\n<p>Texas has adopted a version of \u201cBentley\u2019s Law,\u201d which applies in certain fatal drunk driving cases. When a drunk driver is convicted of causing a crash that kills a child\u2019s parent or legal guardian, the court may order that driver to pay child support to the surviving child.<\/p>\n<p>Families may still pursue <a title=\"Houston wrongful death lawyer\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/houston-wrongful-death-lawyer\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external\">wrongful death claims<\/a> to recover damages such as lost financial support, loss of companionship, and funeral expenses. Bentley\u2019s Law is separate and is intended to provide long-term financial assistance for children affected by these devastating crashes.<\/p>\n<h3>Statute of Limitations and Deadlines<\/h3>\n<p>Texas law places strict time limits on drunk driving accident cases. Under <a title=\"Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code \u00a716.003\" href=\"https:\/\/law.justia.com\/codes\/texas\/civil-practice-and-remedies-code\/title-2\/subtitle-b\/chapter-16\/subchapter-a\/section-16-003\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code \u00a716.003<\/a>, victims have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.<\/p>\n<p>Waiting too long can make it harder to obtain evidence, locate witnesses, or build a strong case. Even though two years may seem like plenty of time, it is often best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to avoid missing important deadlines.<\/p>\n<a class=\"nectar-button n-sc-button large accent-color regular-button\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/contact-us\/\" data-color-override=\"false\" data-hover-color-override=\"false\" data-hover-text-color-override=\"#fff\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external\"><span>Schedule A Free Consultation<\/span><\/a>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element \" >\n\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_AK_Law_Firm_Helps_Drunk_Driving_Accident_Victims\"><\/span>How AK Law Firm Helps Drunk Driving Accident Victims<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element \" >\n\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t<p>Being hit by a drunk driver can leave you with painful injuries, mounting bills, and unanswered questions about what comes next. The right legal support ensures your case is taken seriously from the start.<\/p>\n<h3>Building a Strong Civil Case<\/h3>\n<p>AK Law Firm proves fault and documents the full extent of your losses. Our experienced <a title=\"Texas car accident lawyers\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/texas-car-accident-lawyers\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external\">Texas car accident lawyers<\/a> gather and analyze key evidence, including police reports, toxicology results, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions.<\/p>\n<p>Your lawyer can also investigate potential dram shop liability, coordinate with prosecutors handling the DWI case, and pursue punitive damages when the drunk driver\u2019s conduct rises to the level of gross negligence. This thorough approach helps ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable and that no source of compensation is overlooked.<\/p>\n<h3>Supporting Victims in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio<\/h3>\n<p>AK Law Firm represents drunk driving accident victims throughout Texas, including <a title=\"Houston law firm\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/houston\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external\">Houston<\/a>, <a title=\"Dallas law firm\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/dallas\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external\">Dallas<\/a>, and <a title=\"San Antonio law firm\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/san-antonio\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external\">San Antonio<\/a>. The firm takes a client-first approach, keeping victims informed, helping connect them with medical care, and handling insurance communications while the case is pending.<\/p>\n<p>We want our clients to recover without added financial pressure, so all cases are handled on a contingency-fee basis. This means there are no upfront legal fees, and payment is collected only if we successfully recover compensation.<\/p>\n<p>If you were hit by a drunk driver, call AK Law Firm to schedule a free consultation. We will help you understand your options and take the next step toward accountability and recovery.<\/p>\n<a class=\"nectar-button n-sc-button large accent-color regular-button\" href=\"tel:8666937098\" data-color-override=\"false\" data-hover-color-override=\"false\" data-hover-text-color-override=\"#fff\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><span>Call Now<\/span><\/a>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element \" >\n\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ_for_Drunk_Driving_Accident_Victims\"><\/span>FAQ for Drunk Driving Accident Victims<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element \" >\n\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t<h3>Can I sue for being hit by a drunk driver?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes. You can sue the drunk driver in civil court for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses, even if they are also facing criminal DWI charges.<\/p>\n<p>In many cases, drunk driving accident victims may also seek punitive damages because intoxicated driving is often considered grossly negligent conduct.<\/p>\n<h3>What if the drunk driver was uninsured or underinsured?<\/h3>\n<p>If the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance, you may be able to use your own <a title=\"Accident With Uninsured Driver \u2013 What Are My Rights?\" href=\"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/accident-with-uninsured-driver\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external\">uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM\/UIM) coverage<\/a>. In some situations, dram shop claims against bars or restaurants that overserved the driver may also be an option. Crime Victims\u2019 Compensation can sometimes help cover certain out-of-pocket expenses related to the crash as well.<\/p>\n<h3>Do I need to wait for the DWI case to finish before filing a claim?<\/h3>\n<p>No. You can usually begin a civil claim right away and do not need to wait for the criminal case to end. Taking early action helps preserve evidence and allows your lawyer to coordinate with law enforcement as the criminal proceedings move forward.<\/p>\n<h3>What if I might be partially at fault for the crash?<\/h3>\n<p>Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation as long as you are less than 50% at fault\u2014although your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.<\/p>\n<p>Because drunk driving is perceived as especially reckless, juries and insurance adjusters often place less blame on the victim in these cases.<\/p>\n<h3>How much does it cost to hire a lawyer if I was hit by a drunk driver?<\/h3>\n<p>AK Law Firm handles drunk driving accident cases on a contingency fee basis. There are no upfront costs, and the lawyer is paid only if the case results in a settlement or verdict. Don\u2019t forget to ask about fee percentages, litigation costs, and how expenses are handled if the case does not succeed.<\/p>\n\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"container\" data-elementor-id=\"4813\" class=\"elementor elementor-4813\" data-elementor-post-type=\"elementor_library\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6ddfbf46 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"6ddfbf46\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2f00fd83 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"2f00fd83\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Disclaimer<\/p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-501c7191 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"501c7191\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">This article is intended for use as a service to the general public. It does not constitute an attorney-client relationship between its users and AK Law Firm, nor is it intended to serve as legal advice or as a substitute for related legal advice from their appointed counsel. Those seeking specific legal advice and services should hire an attorney.<\/p><p>The content presented in this article may contain opinions that do not necessarily reflect those of AK Law Firm and its employees. It may contain typographical errors and inaccurate or incomplete information.<\/p><p>The articles on this website do not express or imply warranties of any kind, including but not limited to commercial use and non-infringement. All published content may contain notices and copyrighted information proprietary to AK Law Firm.<\/p><p>AK Law Firm gives you authorization to view, save, print, copy, and distribute pages on our website for non-commercial purposes only. In return, you agree to retain their original copyright and proprietary notices and include this disclaimer with any distribution.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\t\t\t<\/div> \n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div> \n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Hit by a drunk driver in Texas? You may be able to pursue compensation from the driver, their insurance company, or under a Dram Shop claim. Here&#8217;s what to do.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":127,"featured_media":4800,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-4799","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-car-accident"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4799","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/127"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4799"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4799\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4800"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4799"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4799"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/akfirm.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4799"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}