A Brief Summary of the Following Page
- Advocacy: Hollis Law Firm brings extensive experience, local connections, and dedicated resources to build a strong case for victims of drunk driving accidents, ensuring meticulous investigation and negotiation for rightful compensation.
- Legislation: Missouri’s strict drunk driving laws, including a 0.08% BAC threshold and Zero Tolerance for drivers under 21, highlight the state’s commitment to road safety and provide a foundation for victims to seek compensation.
- Dram Shop Law: Missouri’s dram shop law allows victims to seek damages from establishments that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals, offering another avenue for compensation beyond claims against the driver.
- Comprehensive Compensation: Victims of drunk driving accidents may be eligible for a wide range of compensations, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, with the possibility of punitive damages for egregious cases or wrongful death claims.
- Schedule a free consultation with our knowledgeable team at Hollis Law Firm by calling (800) 701-3672 or filling out our contact form today.
Suffering injuries due to the actions of a drunk driver is an overwhelming experience, fraught with physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Working with a Kansas City drunk driving accident lawyer at Hollis Law Firm increases your chance of obtaining justice and compensation, as we have an in-depth understanding of drunk driving accident claims. Our Kansas City drunk driving accident attorney bring to the table a wealth of experience, local connections, and resources dedicated to constructing a strong case against those at fault. By meticulously investigating the accident, gathering evidence, and adeptly negotiating with insurance entities, we ensure that every facet of your case is pursued with precision and unwavering commitment.
We recognize the profound and lasting impact such an accident has on victims and their families. With our legal team by your side, we will support you during your recovery and advocate for safer driving practices in our community.
Drunk Driving Laws in Kansas City, Missouri
Missouri enforces stringent regulations regarding drunk driving. A person is deemed to be driving under the influence if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) meets or exceeds 0.08%.
Yet, it’s important to note that individuals displaying compromised vehicular control due to alcohol or drug consumption may face DUI/DWI charges even if their BAC is below this threshold.
For younger drivers under 21, Missouri’s Zero Tolerance Law applies, making it illegal to have a BAC higher than 0.02%.
Convictions for drunk driving in Missouri can lead to severe consequences, including fines, jail time, suspension of driving privileges, and the requirement to complete alcohol education programs. These regulations are pivotal for determining fault and pursuing compensation in the aftermath of a drunk driving incident. Consulting with a skilled drunk driving accident attorney in Kansas City is essential for effectively navigating these laws.
Kansas City Dram Shop Laws
In numerous jurisdictions, victims of drunk driving accidents have the legal right to pursue claims not only against the intoxicated driver but also against the establishments that served them alcohol, such as bars, restaurants, or taverns. Missouri’s approach to this is defined in Section 537-053 of the Missouri Revised Statutes, known as the “dram shop” law. This legislation opens up an additional path for those injured to seek financial restitution. According to this law, if a business served alcohol to a motorist responsible for the accident at a time when they were clearly inebriated, the establishment could face a civil lawsuit.
It’s important to note that this law specifically targets businesses that offer alcoholic beverages for consumption on their premises, leaving convenience and liquor stores outside its scope. However, if evidence shows that a bar or restaurant continued to serve drinks to a driver who was obviously over the limit, then the victim may have grounds to claim damages. These damages can encompass a range of compensation similar to what might be available in a personal injury lawsuit.
Recoverable Damages in a Successful Drunk Driving Accident Claim
If you’re a drunk driving accident victim, understanding the types of compensation you may be entitled to is essential for your long-term treatment and recovery. A successful claim provides financial support for various economic and non-economic damages incurred due to the accident.
The following is an overview of the compensation types typically recoverable in such cases:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for medical bills includes emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and any future medical care related to accident injuries.
- Lost Wages: If the collision impacts your ability to work, you can recover lost income. This includes compensation for the time already missed and any future earnings lost due to the long-term effects of the injuries.
- Property Damage: The losses associated with repairing or replacing your vehicle and or personal property damaged in the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Losses associated with physical pain, emotional trauma, and suffering endured as a result of the accident. This includes ongoing discomfort and the impact on your overall quality of life.
- Loss of Consortium: If the collision affects your relationship with your spouse or partner, you may seek recovery for loss of companionship and support.
- Emotional Distress: For the psychological trauma of the accident, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD, which are common after traumatic events like drunk driving accidents.
In some cases, if the behavior of the drunk driver is found to be particularly reckless or egregious, punitive damages may be awarded. These are not tied to the direct costs incurred by the victim but are intended to punish the offending motorist and deter similar behavior in the future.
Wrongful Death
If a drunk driving accident results in fatal injuries, the victim’s family may pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim, including funeral and burial expenses, loss of the victim’s future earnings, and loss of companionship.
The specifics of what you can recover will depend on the details of your case, including the extent of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident. An experienced drunk driving accident lawyer provides guidance, helping you understand your rights and the full extent of compensation you’re entitled to. Engaging with a legal professional early on ensures that you navigate the claim process effectively, focusing on your recovery while they advocate on your behalf.
