(818) 876-2600A drunk driving accident can leave an indelible mark on the lives of the victims and their families. Not only do they have to grapple with the emotional turmoil, but they also have to navigate the complex legal landscape to seek the compensation they rightfully deserve. That is where we step in to help.
The Kansas City drunk driving accident lawyers at Dollar, Burns, Becker & Hershewe will bear the torch of justice, lighting the path towards rightful monetary compensation, and legal accountability for the drunk driver that hit you. Speak with an experienced Kansas City personal injury lawyer today or schedule a free consultation by calling (818) 876-2600.
Why Choose Us?
At Dollar, Burns, Becker & Hershewe, we stand as a beacon of hope for those whose lives have been upended by drunk drivers. With a legacy of over a century, we have the skills necessary to pierce the veil of complexity that shrouds the legal process. Our track record of recovering over $1 billion for our past clients is a testament to our relentless pursuit of justice. When you choose us, you are not just getting a lawyer; you are gaining a strong advocate committed to restoring the balance in your life.
How Can a Kansas City Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Help With Recovering Damages?
Recovering damages after a drunk driving accident can be difficult, especially when injured. However, with a skilled drunk driving accident lawyer in Kansas City from our law firm at your side, you are not alone.
We will initiate a thorough investigation to establish the liability of the drunk driver, liaise with medical professionals to determine the extent of your injuries and engage with financial experts to accurately quantify your financial losses.
By constructing a compelling case that encapsulates the full spectrum of your damages, we will strive to secure a settlement or verdict that reflects the true extent of your suffering and losses.
Our lawyers are adept at navigating the legal process, whether it is negotiating with insurance adjusters, presenting your case before a jury, or fighting for your rights on appeal if necessary. Your journey to justice is ours, and we are dedicated to recovering every dime you are owed.
Compensation Available Following an Accident with a Drunk Driver
The road to recovery can be long and arduous for victims of drunk driving accidents. Thankfully, Missouri law allows victims to pursue compensation for a myriad of damages, which can be broadly categorized into economic and non-economic damages.
- Economic Damages: These cover quantifiable losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
- Non-economic Damages: compensate for non-tangible losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Our seasoned Kansas City drunk driving accident attorneys are skilled at documenting all damages and negotiating assertively with the liable insurance companies to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Drunk Driving Laws in Missouri
In Missouri, the law is clear and strict when it comes to drunk driving. Individuals are considered to be driving under the influence if they have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
However, even with a lower BAC, if a driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely is impaired due to the influence of alcohol or drugs, they can still be charged with DUI/DWI (Driving Under the Influence/Driving While Intoxicated).
The state also has a Zero Tolerance Law for drivers under 21, where any detectable BAC above 0.02% is illegal.
The penalties for drunk driving can include fines, imprisonment, license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education programs. Understanding these laws is crucial as they form the basis for establishing liability and seeking compensation following a drunk driving accident. An experienced drunk driving accident lawyer in Kansas City can assist you with navigating these laws.
Types of Drunk Driving Accidents in Kansas City
Drunk drivers create dangerous situations on the road through their impaired judgment, delayed reactions, and reckless behavior. These motorists deserve to be held accountable, and if you or a loved one was injured by a drunk driver, the lawyers at Dollar, Burns, Becker, and Hershewe can help.
Our Kansas City drunk driving accident attorneys have successfully represented victims in various types of collisions, each with its own unique circumstances and challenges. Some of the most common types of drunk driving accidents include:
- Head-On Collisions: Intoxicated drivers frequently drift into oncoming traffic or enter highways going the wrong direction, leading to devastating high-speed accidents.
- Rear-End Crashes: Alcohol-impaired drivers often misjudge stopping distances and reaction times, causing them to slam into vehicles stopped at traffic lights or in congested traffic.
- Intersection Accidents: Drunk drivers often run red lights or stop signs, failing to yield the right of way and causing side-impact collisions with cross traffic.
- Pedestrian Collisions: Impaired drivers may not notice crosswalks or sidewalks, leading to serious accidents involving pedestrians who have little protection against larger, heavier vehicles.
- Sideswipe Collisions: Intoxicated drivers commonly weave between lanes or fail to check blind spots. This can cause them to sideswipe the vehicles in adjacent lanes.
- Single-Vehicle Crashes: Drunk drivers can easily lose control and leave the roadway, striking fixed objects like trees, poles, or barriers, which can injure both the driver and any passengers in the car.
- Multi-Vehicle Pileups: One drunk driver’s erratic behavior can trigger chain-reaction crashes on highways or busy streets, involving multiple vehicles and complicated liability issues.
- Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents: Impaired drivers often fail to notice smaller vehicles like motorcycles and bicycles. This can lead to catastrophic collisions due to the riders’ vulnerable position on the road.
Common Injuries Suffered in Drunk Driving Accidents
The aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be devastating, often resulting in severe car accident injuries that can alter the course of one’s life. Remember to reach out to an experienced car accident attorney in Kansas City for legal guidance and support. Some common injuries include:
- Spinal cord injuries: These can lead to permanent disability or partial paralysis.
- Traumatic brain injuries: The repercussions can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
- Neck injuries: Often leading to chronic pain or limited mobility.
- Chest and rib injuries: These can result in internal bleeding or organ damage.
- Lower extremity injuries: Such as fractures or ligament tears.
- Wrongful deaths: The most tragic outcome, leaving families bereft. Make sure to speak with an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Kansas City to get the compensation you and your family deserve.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Drunk Driving Accident
The moments following a collision with a drunk driver can feel overwhelming and chaotic. At Dollar, Burns, Becker, and Hershewe, we have helped countless victims navigate these critical moments. In these situations, we recommend taking the following steps to protect your health and strengthen your future legal case:
- Make Sure Everyone Is Safe: If possible, move your vehicle to the shoulder, turn on your hazard lights, and check yourself and your passengers for injuries before exiting the vehicle.
- Contact Law Enforcement: Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request police presence, especially if you suspect the other driver is intoxicated. The responding officers will create a crash report and likely perform a blood alcohol test on the driver, which can serve as important evidence in your case.
- Document the Other Driver’s Behavior: Note any signs of intoxication such as slurred speech, stumbling, or the smell of alcohol, and share these observations with responding officers.
- Gather as Much Evidence as Possible: Take photos of all vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries while waiting for emergency responders to arrive.
- Seek Medical Attention: Accept medical evaluation at the scene and follow up with your doctor, even if injuries seem minor. Some symptoms may not appear immediately. This step also ensures that your injuries are documented and can be linked back to the crash.
- Speak to an Attorney: Once you have received medical care, contact a drunk driving accident lawyer right away to discuss your case and plan your path to financial recovery.
Contact a Kansas City Drunk Driving Accident Attorney at Dollar, Burns, Becker & Hershewe
In the aftermath of a drunk driving accident, the road to recovery may seem almost impossible. However, with a dedicated Kansas City drunk driving accident lawyer from Dollar, Burns, Becker & Hershewe, you have a staunch ally in your corner. Reach out to us at (816) 876-2600, toll-free at (877) 816-2600, or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. Let us embark on the journey towards justice and compensation together.