St. Louis Drunk Driving Accident Attorney
Fighting For Drunk Driving Accident Victims in Missouri
Drunk driving is a severe offense, not only endangering lives but also entailing stringent legal consequences. In Missouri, driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol is a criminal offense with legal repercussions that can significantly impact all parties involved in an accident. The state enforces severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and incarceration, to deter reckless behavior.
In St. Louis, as in the wider Missouri area, a driver is deemed legally impaired with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. The legal BAC limit is as low as 0.04% for commercial drivers. Those under 21 are subject to a zero-tolerance policy, penalizing any detectable BAC level of 0.02% or more. Understanding these stringent laws is crucial for building a strong legal strategy following an accident involving a drunk driver.
At Sedey Harper Westhoff, we are committed to representing those affected by drunk driving incidents, ensuring that justice is pursued and victims' rights are protected. With over 40 years of experience, our team consists of seasoned attorneys who focus exclusively on personal injury and employment law, allowing us to dedicate our full attention and extensive resources to our clients.
Call Sedey Harper Westhoff today at (314) 819-0963 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our drunk driving accident lawyer in St. Louis.
Common Causes & Trends in St. Louis Drunk Driving Incidents
Drunk driving remains a prevalent issue in St. Louis, with several factors contributing to the ongoing challenge. While nighttime and weekend driving often see higher incidents, holidays and special occasions are also times of increased risk. In 2022 alone, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported over 1,000 accidents related to impaired driving within the state, reflecting a growing issue that demands attention.
Other contributing factors include the layout of St. Louis roads, local alcohol consumption habits, and a lack of adequate public transportation in certain areas. These trends highlight the necessity for legal representation by an experienced drunk driving accident lawyer in St. Louis who understands local challenges and can address the unique facets of each case.
Efforts to mitigate drunk driving include heightened law enforcement patrols during peak times and public awareness campaigns aimed at educating drivers about the dangers and legal implications of impaired driving. Community initiatives and partnerships with local organizations are also crucial in spreading awareness and providing resources that encourage responsible behavior among drivers.
Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident
Experiencing a drunk driving accident can be traumatic and disorienting. Knowing the appropriate actions to take immediately following such an event is essential. Below are crucial steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights:
- Ensure Safety & Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are top priorities. Check for injuries and call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, medical evaluation is essential.
- Report the Accident: When law enforcement officers arrive, provide a detailed account of the incident. An official report is vital for legal and insurance purposes.
- Gather Evidence: Document the scene by taking photos, noting weather and road conditions, and collecting witness contacts.
- Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid discussing fault at the scene. Remain calm and provide factual information only.
- Consult a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer: Contacting a knowledgeable attorney early can help navigate your legal options and secure fair compensation.
In addition to these immediate steps, keeping a detailed record of all medical treatments, expenses, and communications with insurance companies is essential. This documentation can significantly support your legal case and help you receive your deserved compensation. Moreover, retaining correspondence and interaction details with the responsible party or authorities can strengthen your case and facilitate a more straightforward pathway to justice.
FAQs About Drunk Driving Accidents
Can I Sue a Drunk Driver for Damages?
Yes, you can file a lawsuit against a drunk driver for damages incurred due to their negligence. Missouri law allows victims to seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A competent drunk driving accident lawyer in St. Louis will assess your case, inform you of your rights, and guide you through the process of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Potential Consequences for Drunk Drivers in St. Louis?
Drunk drivers in St. Louis face severe penalties depending on the circumstances. Consequences include criminal charges leading to fines, license suspension, and imprisonment. Additionally, they may face civil action from victims seeking damages for injuries and losses sustained in the accident. The legal ramifications are aimed at deterring dangerous behavior and ensuring accountability for those who choose to drive impaired.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Drunk Driving Accident?
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to a motor vehicle accident is generally five years from the accident date. It is critical to act promptly to protect your right to compensation. Consulting with a St. Louis drunk driving accident lawyer can help clarify your case's timelines to avoid missing crucial deadlines.
Why Should I Hire an Attorney for a Drunk Driving Accident Case?
Navigating the complexities of a drunk driving accident claim can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries and recovery. An experienced attorney will provide crucial support by handling legal proceedings, negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensuring that you receive fair compensation. At Sedey Harper Westhoff, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you get the justice you deserve.
Contact Our St. Louis Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been affected by a drunk driving accident in St. Louis, do not wait to seek legal assistance. The dedicated team at Sedey Harper Westhoff stands ready to help you navigate this challenging time. Our commitment to representing individuals ensures that your interests are our top priority.
With over 40 years of experience and a history of legal successes, we provide the comprehensive support you need. Let our team guide you towards achieving the legal outcome that best restores your peace of mind.
Contact us today at (314) 819-0963 to schedule your free consultation with our St. Louis drunk driving accident attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri Car Accident Lawsuits
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Can I Represent Myself in a Missouri Car Accident Lawsuit?
While you can represent yourself in a car accident lawsuit, doing so can often be more disadvantageous than beneficial. Car accident cases involve complex legal standards, intricate procedures, and rigorous documentation requirements that can overwhelm those without a legal background.
Personal injury attorneys are well-versed in the nuances of these cases. They possess the skills to interpret legal jargon and meet specific court requirements and deadlines. Without this knowledge and experience, individuals might make costly errors, miss critical deadlines, or fail to adequately present evidence, potentially undermining their case. Furthermore, insurance companies often take advantage of unrepresented plaintiffs by offering lower settlements, knowing they lack the negotiation experience that seasoned attorneys bring to the table. By hiring a seasoned legal professional, plaintiffs may be more likely to achieve a fair compensation outcome and have the support needed to navigate the negotiation and litigation processes successfully.
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How Long Does a Missouri Car Accident Lawsuit Typically Take?
The duration of a car accident lawsuit in Missouri can vary greatly, often spanning from several months to a few years. Several factors influence the timeline, including the complexity of the case, the willingness of parties to settle, the severity of injuries, and the court's schedule.
Initially, a lawsuit involves stages like filing a complaint, discovery, negotiations, and potentially going to trial. Discovery, a critical phase where both sides gather and exchange information, can extend the timeline based on the volume of evidence and the number of witnesses. If the case reaches a settlement, this may occur relatively quickly. However, if it proceeds to trial, it can take significantly longer. Retaining an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate these processes efficiently.
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What If I Was Partially at Fault for a Missouri Car Accident?
If you are involved in a Missouri car accident where you may bear some responsibility, it is crucial to understand how the state's pure comparative negligence system impacts your ability to recover damages. Under this system, you can still seek compensation even if you are partially at fault for the accident. However, the amount of compensation you can receive will be adjusted according to your degree of fault.
In practice, this means that if you are deemed to have contributed to the accident, the total damages you are awarded will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if the court determines you are 30% at fault and awards $100,000 in damages, you would only receive $70,000, reflecting a deduction equivalent to your share of the liability.
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Will My Missouri Car Accident Case Go to Trial?Not necessarily. Whether a Missouri car accident case goes to trial largely depends on the specific circumstances surrounding the incident and the decisions of the involved parties. While many personal injury claims are resolved through settlements before reaching a courtroom, certain cases may require a trial for a variety of reasons. Key factors that influence this outcome include the complexity of the case, the degree of fault disputed, the amount of damages claimed, and the willingness of both parties to negotiate. If an insurance company contests the claim or offers an unsatisfactory settlement, going to trial might be the best avenue for obtaining fair compensation.
- We investigate and evaluate your injury and the harm you have suffered.
- We negotiate a quick, fair settlement with the insurance company where possible.
- We work with your medical providers to develop a strong case of negligence.
- We take your case to court to get you the best result.
We Get Results!
Our clients say we are smart, hard-working, aggressive advocates, who will fight for your rights.
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"I have the utmost respect for Sedey Harper Westhoff."
They are a unique group of smart, talented, dedicated and passionate attorneys working together to represent their clients with the highest degree of legal expertise, and to make a positive difference in the world. Their work is unparalleled.
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"The counsel that I received from Sedey Harper Westhoff during each phase of my discrimination and retaliation case was excellent."
The professionalism and knowledge exhibited, and the personal touch my family received, was comforting during a very difficult time in my life.
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"You don’t just get one attorney… you get an entire firm on your side. I can’t recommend them highly enough."
Their reputation with the court system and the opposing firm / defendant spoke volumes in getting this case to a winning settlement. Most importantly, they are real people in a sea of so many attorneys.
- Terry H.
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