Somerville, TX — December 25, 2024, Douglas Hammel, Jeanne Hammel Rivers, and two others were injured in an alleged drunk driver accident on Highway 36.
According to initial details about the accident, it took place near the intersection of Avenue B/TX-36 and East 8th Street.
Investigators said that 60-year-old Douglas Hammel, 52-year-old Jeanne Hammel Rivers, and one other person were in a Lexus going southbound. A Chevy Silverado was going eastbound when the driver reportedly failed to yield making a left turn, and the vehicles collided.
Due to the collision, Douglas Hammel, Jeanne Hammel Rivers, and the other occupant in the Lexus had reportedly serious injuries. The driver of the Chevy reportedly sustained minor injuries. Authorities allege that the Chevy driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. Authorities recommended multiple charges.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When law enforcement alleges that a serious accident like this one involved an intoxicated driver, the investigation must extend beyond the individual behind the wheel. It’s possible there was an accomplice to the accident who also needs to answer for their actions. Texas law recognizes that alcohol providers who over-serve obviously intoxicated patrons contribute to the dangers posed by impaired driving.
So, for example, if evidence shows that the Chevy driver was served alcohol while obviously impaired, it’s important to shine a light on the complicit alcohol provider for their role in the crash. This helps ensure that alcohol providers serving alcohol operate responsibly and follow the law or otherwise clean up their act if they don’t. This helps reduce future accidents, helping to make our communities safer.
Frankly, though, this is something authorities too often overlook. Perhaps they’ve been more thorough here, but I wouldn’t take that for granted. Far too many of the hundreds of alcohol-related accident cases I’ve handled ended up needing thorough independent investigations before any negligent alcohol providers answered for their actions.
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