Ted Ginn Jr. DUI Arrest: What Columbus, Columbus County, Texas Drivers Need to Know About Trucking Safety and Legal Rights
The Incident: UFL Coach Arrested for DUI in Tarrant County
On Saturday, April 12, 2026, at approximately 1:00 a.m., former NFL wide receiver and current head coach of the Columbus Aviators, Ted Ginn Jr., was arrested in Tarrant County, Texas, and charged with driving under the influence. The 41-year-old coach was in Texas because his team was scheduled to play the Dallas Renegades on Sunday as part of the United Football League (UFL) schedule.
According to reports, Ginn was stopped after police observed him failing to yield while making a wide right turn. At that point, officers conducted a sobriety test before taking him into custody. Ginn was later released after posting a $1,000 bond.
This arrest meant Ginn missed his team’s game against the Dallas Renegades on Sunday afternoon. Offensive coordinator Todd Haley stepped in as head coach for the game. Notably, Ginn’s arrest occurred just one day before his 41st birthday and the Aviators’ third game of the UFL season.
On Sunday, Ginn released a statement taking responsibility for his actions:
“I understand the responsibility that comes with being a leader and role model, and falling short of this is not something I take lightly. I’m committed to learning from this, making better decisions, and earning back the trust of my players, our organization, and the fans.”
While this incident involved a football coach rather than a commercial truck driver, it raises critical questions about impaired driving, accountability, and the broader implications for road safety—especially in a state like Texas, where trucking is a dominant industry. At Attorney911, we’ve seen how impaired driving, whether by commercial drivers or private citizens, can lead to catastrophic accidents. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the legal consequences that follow when those standards aren’t met.
The Legal Consequences of DUI in Texas
In Texas, driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense with severe legal consequences. For commercial drivers, the standards are even stricter.
Texas DUI/DWI Laws
Under Texas law (Texas Penal Code § 49.04), a person commits a DWI if they operate a motor vehicle in a public place 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 due to the introduction of alcohol, a controlled substance, a drug, a dangerous drug, or any combination of these.
For commercial drivers, the legal limit is lower: a BAC of 0.04% or higher is considered intoxicated (49 CFR § 382.201).
Penalties for DUI/DWI in Texas
The penalties for a DUI/DWI conviction in Texas depend on several factors, including the driver’s BAC level, whether there was an accident, and whether the driver has prior convictions. Penalties can include:
| Offense | Penalties |
|---|---|
| First Offense | Up to $2,000 fine, 3-180 days in jail, license suspension up to 1 year |
| Second Offense | Up to $4,000 fine, 1 month to 1 year in jail, license suspension up to 2 years |
| Third Offense | Up to $10,000 fine, 2-10 years in prison, license suspension up to 2 years |
| DWI with Child Passenger | Up to $10,000 fine, up to 2 years in jail, license suspension up to 180 days |
| Intoxication Assault | 2-10 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine (if accident causes serious bodily injury) |
| Intoxication Manslaughter | 2-20 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine (if accident causes death) |
For commercial drivers, a DUI/DWI conviction can result in the loss of their commercial driver’s license (CDL) for at least one year, effectively ending their career (49 CFR § 383.51).
FMCSA Regulations on Impaired Driving
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has strict regulations in place to prevent impaired driving by commercial truck drivers. These regulations are designed to protect everyone on the road, and violations can serve as powerful evidence in a trucking accident case.
Drug and Alcohol Testing (49 CFR Part 382)
FMCSA regulations require trucking companies to implement drug and alcohol testing programs for their drivers. These programs include:
| Test Type | When It’s Required |
|---|---|
| Pre-Employment | Before a driver is hired or allowed to operate a CMV |
| Random | Unannounced tests conducted throughout the year |
| Post-Accident | After any accident resulting in a fatality, or if the driver receives a citation for a moving violation and there are injuries or vehicle damage requiring towing |
| Reasonable Suspicion | When a supervisor has reasonable suspicion that a driver is under the influence |
| Return-to-Duty | After a driver has violated drug and alcohol regulations and completed the required treatment |
| Follow-Up | For drivers who have returned to duty after a violation |
Prohibited Substances:
– Alcohol (BAC of 0.04% or higher)
– Marijuana
– Cocaine
– Opiates (including heroin, codeine, morphine)
– Amphetamines and methamphetamines
– Phencyclidine (PCP)
Consequences of Violations:
– Drivers who test positive are immediately removed from safety-sensitive functions.
– Drivers must complete a return-to-duty process, including evaluation by a substance abuse professional and follow-up testing.
– Trucking companies that fail to comply with testing requirements face fines and penalties.
Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR Part 395)
Fatigue is a form of impairment, and the FMCSA’s hours of service (HOS) regulations are designed to prevent drivers from operating commercial vehicles while fatigued. These regulations limit how long drivers can be on duty and behind the wheel:
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| 11-Hour Driving Limit | Drivers may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. |
| 14-Hour On-Duty Limit | Drivers may not drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty. |
| 30-Minute Break Requirement | Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving. |
| 60/70-Hour Limit | Drivers may not drive after 60 hours on duty in 7 consecutive days or 70 hours in 8 consecutive days. |
| 34-Hour Restart | Drivers can reset their 60/70-hour clock by taking 34 consecutive hours off duty. |
Why HOS Violations Matter:
Fatigued driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. Studies have shown that being awake for 18 hours straight impairs driving ability as much as a BAC of 0.05%, and being awake for 24 hours straight is equivalent to a BAC of 0.10%—above the legal limit for commercial drivers.
When a truck driver violates HOS regulations and causes an accident, the trucking company can be held liable for negligence. At Attorney911, we use ELD data to prove HOS violations and build strong cases for our clients.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a DUI-Related Trucking Accident
If you or a loved one is involved in an accident with a commercial truck where the driver is suspected of being under the influence, taking the right steps immediately can make a significant difference in your case.
1. Call 911 and Report the Accident
Always call 911 to report the accident, even if injuries seem minor. Request that police and emergency medical services respond to the scene. A police report will document critical details, including any signs of impairment observed by the officer.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Medical records will serve as critical evidence in your case.
3. Document the Scene
If you’re able, take photos and videos of:
– The accident scene, including skid marks, debris, and road conditions
– Damage to all vehicles involved
– Your injuries
– The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company name
– Any visible signs of impairment (e.g., alcohol containers, drug paraphernalia)
4. Collect Witness Information
Get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident. Their statements can be invaluable in proving the truck driver’s impairment.
5. Do NOT Give a Statement to the Trucking Company’s Insurance
Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not for you. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim. Politely decline to give a statement and refer them to your attorney.
6. Contact an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney
Trucking accident cases are complex and require specialized knowledge of federal regulations, insurance policies, and corporate liability. At Attorney911, we have over 25 years of experience handling these cases and know how to build a strong claim on your behalf.
Common Questions About DUI Trucking Accidents
1. Can I sue the trucking company if the driver was drunk or on drugs?
Yes. Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, employers can be held liable for the negligent actions of their employees if those actions occur within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for negligent hiring, supervision, or retention of a driver with a history of substance abuse.
2. What kind of compensation can I recover?
Victims of DUI-related trucking accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost wages and lost earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Mental anguish
– Disfigurement
– Loss of consortium (for spouses)
– Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
3. How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, it’s critical to act quickly, as evidence can disappear and witnesses’ memories can fade. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
4. What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
Even if the driver is an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable under theories of negligent hiring or negligent supervision. We investigate the relationship between the driver and the company to determine all potential sources of liability.
5. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%.
Case Study: How We Handled a DUI Trucking Accident
To illustrate how we approach DUI-related trucking accident cases, let’s look at a hypothetical scenario based on our real-world experience:
The Accident
A family of four was traveling on [local highway] in Columbus, Columbus County, Texas, when a commercial truck swerved into their lane and struck their vehicle head-on. The truck driver was later found to have a BAC of 0.12%—well above the legal limit for commercial drivers. The family suffered severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and internal bleeding.
Our Investigation
-
Preserving Evidence:
– We sent a spoliation letter to the trucking company within 24 hours, demanding preservation of the truck’s ECM data, ELD records, and maintenance logs.
– We worked with accident reconstruction experts to analyze the scene and determine the cause of the crash. -
Proving Impairment:
– We obtained the police report, which documented the driver’s erratic behavior and failed sobriety tests.
– We subpoenaed the trucking company’s drug and alcohol testing records, which revealed a history of violations. -
Holding the Trucking Company Accountable:
– We discovered that the trucking company had hired the driver despite his prior DUI conviction.
– We found that the company had failed to conduct random drug testing as required by FMCSA regulations.
– We proved that the driver had violated hours-of-service regulations, contributing to his fatigue and impairment. -
Maximizing Compensation:
– We calculated the family’s medical expenses, lost wages, and future care needs.
– We negotiated with the trucking company’s insurance to secure a multi-million dollar settlement.
– We ensured that the family received compensation for their pain and suffering, as well as punitive damages for the trucking company’s gross negligence.
The Result
The family received a $5 million settlement, which covered their medical expenses, lost wages, and future care needs. The trucking company was also required to implement stricter safety protocols to prevent future accidents.
How to Protect Yourself on the Road
While you can’t control the actions of other drivers, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from DUI-related trucking accidents:
-
Be Aware of Your Surroundings:
– Watch for signs of impaired driving, such as swerving, erratic speed changes, or failure to obey traffic signals.
– Give trucks plenty of space, especially at night or in poor weather conditions. -
Avoid Blind Spots:
– Trucks have large blind spots on all sides. If you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, the driver can’t see you.
– Never linger in a truck’s blind spot, especially when passing. -
Pass Safely:
– Always pass trucks on the left side, where the blind spot is smaller.
– Never cut in front of a truck too closely, as they require much more distance to stop. -
Be Cautious at Intersections:
– Trucks often make wide turns, so be cautious when approaching intersections.
– Never try to squeeze between a turning truck and the curb. -
Report Impaired Drivers:
– If you suspect a truck driver is impaired, call 911 and report the vehicle’s location, license plate number, and description. -
Wear Your Seatbelt:
– Seatbelts save lives. Always wear yours, and ensure that all passengers in your vehicle are buckled up as well.
Closing: Your Rights Matter—Take Action Today
Ted Ginn Jr.’s DUI arrest is a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving—and the devastating consequences it can have on innocent victims. If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI-related trucking accident, you don’t have to face this battle alone.
At Attorney911, we have the experience, knowledge, and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been handling trucking accident cases for over 25 years, and our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how trucking companies operate.
Don’t wait—evidence disappears quickly in trucking accident cases. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case.
What You Can Do Right Now:
- Call 1-888-ATTY-911 to speak with our team and schedule a free consultation.
- Document everything related to your accident, including medical records, photos, and witness statements.
- Don’t give a statement to the trucking company’s insurance without consulting an attorney.
- Follow your doctor’s orders and keep all medical appointments to document your injuries.
Learn More About Your Rights:
- The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries
- Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?
- What Should You Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?
- The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents
Your fight for justice starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911. Let Attorney911 be your advocate in this difficult time. We’re here to help you every step of the way.