Drunk Driver Accident Attorneys
Stalwart Legal Services for Victims of Drunk Driving Accidents in Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, & Oklahoma
Every year, lives are forever changed by reckless individuals who choose to drive under the influence. At Bishop & Hayes, we've seen the consequences drunk driving can have on victims and their loved ones firsthand. While we cannot undo the harm caused by a drunk driver, our team stands ready to fight for justice and the compensation you need to cover the losses associated with your accident.
As your advocates, we meticulously analyze every aspect of your case, leveraging over 50 years of combined experience in car accident law to champion your rights. Our strategic tenacity shines in every case we undertake, whether at the negotiating table or in the courtroom. We leverage our background in insurance defense and personal injury litigation to advocate for your best interests.
By uniting our assertive legal strategies against insurance companies with our partnerships with medical providers, we can work to reduce your medical expenses. We strive to secure fair compensation that encompasses all your accident-related losses—past, present, and future. Supported by innovative technology, a team of experts, and a dedicated investigative unit, our drunk driving accident attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the life that you deserve.
Call (417) 304-3228 today to schedule a free, no-obligation case consultation. We offer in-person and virtual appointments. You can find our branches in Joplin and Springfield in Missouri, and in Miami, Oklahoma.
Are Drunk Drivers Always Liable?
While it seems logical that a drunk driver should bear full responsibility for any accident they cause, determining liability can be surprisingly complex. Of course, driving under the influence is a serious violation of the law. If someone causes an accident in this state, they will likely be considered at least partly responsible for the accident. However, the legal landscape is rarely black and white.
In many instances, multiple factors contribute to an accident. This could include the actions of other drivers, unexpected road conditions, or even unforeseen vehicle malfunctions. When such factors are present, the principle of 'comparative negligence' may come into play. This means that more than one party can share a degree of responsibility for the accident and its consequences.
At Bishop & Hayes, we recognize that a thorough investigation is crucial to untangling these complexities. Our legal team can meticulously examine every detail of your case to identify all contributing factors and potentially liable parties. We understand that the whole picture may not be immediately evident, and that's why we take the time to uncover every piece of relevant information.
OUR VERDICTS & SETTLEMENTS
MORE THAN $100,000,000 RECOVERED FOR OUR CLIENTS
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$1.5 Million Auto Accident Rollover
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$1.1 Million Motorcycle Accident
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$1 Million Semi-Truck Accident
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$500,000 Semi-Truck Failure to Secure Load
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$400,000 Uninsured Motorist Red Light Accident
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$350,000 Semi-Truck Head-On Collision
The Keys to our success
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Exclusive Focus on Auto Accident Recovery Law
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Over $100,000,000 Total Recovered for Our Clients
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50 Years of Combined Experience in Car Crash Recovery
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Same-Day Returned Phone Calls and Emails from Our Clients
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Partners Who Handle Your Claim from Consultation to Recovery
Comparative Negligence in Drunk Driving Accidents
Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Arkansas each have distinct comparative negligence rules that come into play in drunk driving cases. Understanding these differences is essential to protect your rights and maximize your potential compensation.
Here's a breakdown:
- Missouri: Following pure comparative negligence, Missouri allows for the recovery of damages even if you share some responsibility for the accident. However, your compensation will be diminished based on the percentage of fault assigned by the court.
- Oklahoma: Operating under a modified comparative negligence system with a strict 51% threshold, Oklahoma permits damages recovery only if you are deemed less than 51% responsible. Crossing this threshold relinquishes your right to compensation.
- Kansas: Kansas has a modified comparative negligence principle with a 50% limit. Compensation can be pursued if your fault level is 49% or below.
- Arkansas: Adopting proportionate responsibility akin to Kansas, Arkansas allows for the recovery of damages if your fault does not exceed 49%. Any award received will be adjusted based on your assigned responsibility percentage.
Even minor changes in percentages, whether a slight rise or fall, can impact your case's outcome. Paying close attention to these subtleties is vital, as they may result in significant differences in the compensation available in your case.
How to File a Claim
Filing a claim after being involved in an accident with a drunk driver can appear daunting, but we're here to guide you through the process with the utmost respect and diligence.
The first step is gathering all relevant documentation, including police reports, medical records, and any evidence of injuries or damaged property. This documentation forms the foundation of your case.
Next, we recommend reaching out to a legal representative to discuss the specifics of your incident. Together, we will review the facts, assess the viability of your claim, and discuss the potential for legal action.
It's essential to act promptly, as there are time limits for filing such claims, known as statutes of limitations, which vary from state to state.
By initiating the claim process early, we can ensure that all necessary steps are taken thoroughly and thoughtfully, preserving your rights and interests. Remember, during this critical time, our focus is on your well-being and on advocating for the justice and compensation you deserve.
The Power of Evidence in Drunk Driving Accident Claims
In a drunk driving accident case, the evidence you gather plays a pivotal role in establishing liability, demonstrating the extent of your injuries, and securing the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Here's a breakdown of some crucial types of evidence and how they can bolster your claim:
- Police reports: These official documents provide a detailed account of the accident. They include the responding officer's observations, statements from those involved, and the results of any field sobriety tests, breathalyzers, or blood alcohol content (BAC) tests. This unbiased information can powerfully establish the other driver's level of intoxication at the time of the crash.
- Witness statements: Accounts from individuals who saw the accident – whether bystanders, passengers, or other drivers – are incredibly valuable. Witnesses can confirm the sequence of events, describe the drunk driver's erratic behavior, or offer insights that might not otherwise be evident. Their testimonies can solidify the connection between the driver's impairment and the negligence that caused the accident.
- Medical records: Your medical records are vital for proving the nature and severity of your injuries. They document not only the initial harm but also any ongoing treatment, therapy, or rehabilitation required due to the accident. This comprehensive record of your physical and psychological injuries forms the foundation for calculating the full extent of your injuries.
- Accident scene evidence: Photographs and videos of the accident scene are highly beneficial. Images of the damaged vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, or other debris can help reconstruct the events of the crash. This visual evidence visually supports your claim and can paint a compelling picture of the impact.
Gathering a wide range of evidence is essential to building a strong drunk driving accident case. Our team can secure evidence relevant to your case, analyze it thoroughly, and use it strategically to advocate for your interests and fight for maximum compensation.
Hear from our clients
WE PUT YOUR EXPERIENCE AND YOUR RECOVERY FIRST
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“If you need an attorney that is going to look out for your needs give them a call first.”- Jen F.
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“Two times now we have needed them.”- Kasandra S.
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“There aren't enough words to say how much I appreciate my first meeting with Tim Hayes!!”- Jeanette B.
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“Professional, caring, answered every question, staff very understanding, and they made it easier going thru an accident.”- Campbell C.
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“My husband, family and I are very grateful for the compassion and the help in navigating all the parts.”- Renee T.
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“They made it so easy! Super friendly staff and beautiful office!”- Allie E.
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“They guided me through a confusing time and went above and beyond to help me.”- Bailey D.
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“Their service, communication and professionalism, that's what makes them great!”- Vlad L.
Your Advocates Throughout Challenging Times
When dealing with the aftermath of a drunk driving accident, you need compassionate support and unwavering legal advocacy. At Bishop & Hayes, we combine decades of experience in auto accident recovery with a client-focused approach to legal representation, providing clear guidance and aggressive representation without overwhelming you with legal jargon.
Here's why you can trust us with your drunk driving accident claim:
- Extensive experience: We bring a half-century of combined experience in car crash recovery law, giving us a decisive edge in navigating these cases.
- Proven results: Our team includes skilled negotiators and tenacious litigators who aren't afraid to take your case to court if necessary.
- Personalized attention: You'll receive one-on-one care from our partners throughout your case. We're committed to keeping you informed and involved at every step.
- Innovative resources: We use the latest technology to analyze the accident you were involved in, helping us build a compelling case.
- Strong partnerships: Our network of medical and crash reconstruction experts allows us to create the strongest possible case for you.
With Bishop & Hayes, you gain more than just legal representation. You gain a dedicated team focused on securing justice and helping you rebuild your life. We're ready to stand by your side and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call (417) 304-3228 or contact us online to schedule a free initial case consultation with a drunk driving accident attorney at Bishop & Hayes today.
