DUI and DWI Accidents

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the most reckless and dangerous choices a driver can make. Despite harsh penalties in Texas, DUI and DWI accidents remain a leading cause of catastrophic injuries and deaths. If you or a loved one has been harmed by a drunk driver, The Miller Law Firm – Home of The Texas Bulldog is here to fight for justice and maximum compensation.

Table of Contents

Why Drunk Driving Accidents Are Different

Unlike ordinary car accidents, DUI/DWI crashes often involve extreme recklessness—speeding, running red lights, or swerving into oncoming traffic. According to the NHTSA, nearly 30 people die every day in drunk-driving crashes in the U.S. That’s one preventable death every 45 minutes.

Victims often face:

  • Severe injuries (brain trauma, spinal damage, amputations)

  • Long hospital stays and lost wages

  • Permanent disability or wrongful death

👉 Learn more about catastrophic injuries: 10 Essential Car Accident Claim Tips for Houston Victims

Common DUI/DWI Accident Scenarios

  • Head-on collisions from crossing the center line

  • Rear-end crashes at stoplights

  • Pedestrian and bicyclist strikes in crosswalks

  • Intersection T-bone collisions

Texas Third-Party Liability

Social Host Law

In Texas, social hosts may only face civil liability if they serve alcohol to a minor who then causes an accident. Criminally, it’s a Class A misdemeanor with jail time and fines.

Dram Shop Law

Bars, clubs, and restaurants can be held accountable if they overserve a visibly intoxicated person who later causes harm. These cases require detailed evidence, and The Texas Bulldog knows how to build them.

Related guide: Houston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer – Get Justice with The Texas Bulldog

Compensation After a DUI/DWI Accident

Being hit by a drunk driver often leaves victims facing overwhelming financial and emotional losses. In addition to the obvious costs like hospital bills and missed paychecks, many survivors deal with long-term consequences such as ongoing therapy, lost earning potential, or the need for in-home care. Our firm carefully evaluates every category of damages to ensure you are not shortchanged.

Types of Compensation You May Recover:

  • Medical expenses – ER visits, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and future care costs

  • Lost wages & reduced earning capacity – Income you’ve already lost and the long-term impact on your career

  • Pain and suffering – Compensation for the physical pain, mental anguish, and disruption to your daily life

  • Property damage – Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other personal property damaged in the crash

  • Wrongful death damages – Funeral costs, loss of financial support, and emotional losses for surviving family members

Unlike ordinary car accident cases, DUI/DWI accidents may also justify punitive damages. These are awarded not just to compensate you, but to punish drunk drivers for their reckless behavior and discourage others from making the same dangerous choices.

At The Miller Law Firm – home of The Texas Bulldog, we don’t stop at the minimum payout. Our team digs deep into police reports, witness statements, bar receipts, and toxicology results to build the strongest possible claim. We pursue every available insurance policy and third-party liability angle, including dram shop claims against bars and restaurants that overserved the drunk driver.

Our mission is simple: maximize your recovery and give you the financial stability you need to move forward after a devastating crash.

How Much Does a DUI/DWI Lawyer Cost?

At The Miller Law Firm – home of Texas Bulldog, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means:

  • No upfront costs

  • We only get paid if you win

  • We advance litigation expenses, expert fees, and medical evaluations

Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Crash

  1. Call 911 and get a police report

  2. Seek immediate medical care

  3. Preserve evidence (photos, witnesses, receipts from bars, etc.)

  4. Contact The Texas Bulldog before speaking to insurance adjusters

See also: What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas

Infographic showing four steps to take after a drunk driving crash: call 911, seek medical care, preserve evidence, and contact The Texas Bulldog before talking to insurance.

FAQs About DUI/DWI Accidents in Texas

Q: What should I do immediately after being hit by a drunk driver?
A: Call 911, get medical attention, and file a police report. Preserve any evidence—like photos, witness contact info, and receipts from bars—and contact an attorney before speaking to insurance companies.

Q: Can I sue a drunk driver if they already face criminal charges?
A: Yes. A criminal case punishes the driver, but it doesn’t pay your medical bills or lost wages. You can still pursue a civil case for compensation.

Q: What if the drunk driver doesn’t have insurance?
A: You may be able to file a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or explore third-party liability through Texas dram shop law if a bar or restaurant overserved the driver.

Q: How much is my DUI/DWI accident case worth?
A: The value depends on your injuries, medical costs, lost income, and whether punitive damages apply. Serious or fatal crashes often lead to higher settlements or verdicts.

Q: How long will a DUI/DWI accident case take?
A: Some cases settle within months, while others—especially those involving catastrophic injuries or wrongful death—may take a year or more. Our firm pushes for the fastest resolution without sacrificing value.

Q: Can the bar or restaurant that served the drunk driver be held responsible?
A: Yes, under Texas dram shop law, bars, clubs, or restaurants can be liable if they served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who later caused a crash.

Q: Will insurance cover my damages after a DUI/DWI accident?
A: Insurance may cover medical bills, property damage, and other losses. However, insurers often try to minimize payouts. Having an experienced DUI/DWI lawyer ensures your rights are protected.

Q: What if I lost a loved one in a drunk driving crash?
A: Families may pursue a wrongful death claim to recover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional damages. Our firm fights aggressively for surviving families.

Q: Do DUI/DWI accident cases allow punitive damages?
A: Yes. Unlike most car accident cases, Texas courts may award punitive damages to punish the drunk driver for reckless behavior.

Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.

Real Client Reviews

⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐“Best law firm in Houston I recommend them to anyone who’s experienced any type of accident.” – Ronald Clark

⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐“The Miller Law Firm do not hesitate when it comes to handling cases, they really get down to business. When I was in a car accident i called them right away; I actually heard of their advertisement via radio. Decided to call, which was a great decision and immediately they went to work. I didnt have to wait very long for my case to be settled . Thanks Bulldog 🐾” – Shirley Myles

Contact The Texas Bulldog

If you or a loved one was injured by a drunk driver, don’t wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and insurance companies are already building their defense.  The Texas Bulldog can help you today!

📞 Call 713-572-3333 today or fill out our contact form for a free consultation with The Texas Bulldog.

Adam Miller and his staff are very kind, respectful and professional. They handled my situation very well and made me feel comfortable. I was even able to speak to him directly if I had to discuss any concern I had. I definitely recommend them
Former Client
I can't express how grateful I am for Miller Law firm and the outstanding service they provided. From the moment I reached out, their communication was impeccable. They truly listened to my concerns and kept me informed every step of the way, which gave me peace of mind during a challenging time. Not only did they fight relentlessly for the compensation I rightfully deserved, but they also demonstrated a remarkable level of expertise in handling my case. It's not just about getting the job done; it's about doing it with care and commitment. What truly sets Miller Law firm apart is the personable and compassionate approach they bring to their clients. I felt like more than just a case number; I was treated with empathy and understanding. This made the entire process significantly more manageable. In the end, I received the compensation I was owed, and it wouldn't have been possible without Miller Law firm's dedication and expertise. They've made a real difference in my life, and I highly recommend their services to anyone in need. Thank you, Miller Law firm, for your exceptional support and outstanding results!
Former Client
Miller law firm is your best choice if you are ever in an accident. They were with me every step of the way and helped me win big ! Excellent customer service and an attorney that truly cares ! Highly recommend!
Former Client
Adam Miller is representing me in regards to a vehicle related accident. He is honest, straight forward, and made me feel comfortable during a time of uncertainty. Do not hesitate to call the Miller Law Firm!
Founder & CEO
If you are ever in an accident contact the Miller Law Firm. They are so helpful and reliable. The staff there are amazing and knowledgeable about your case, If they don’t know they will find out. Mr. Miller is amazing and funny 😄 It’s A Texas BullDog Thing..
Former Client
Adam is the best in town! If you need to get paid he is the only person to call.
Former Client