Springfield, MO Drunk Driver Accident Attorneys

Impaired drivers killed close to 10,000 people and injured tens of thousands more nationwide in 2014 alone. In fact, drunk driving accounts for nearly one-third of all traffic deaths in the United States. Accidents caused by impaired driving are tragically devastating yet entirely avoidable. 

Saddened by this needless suffering, our team at Bishop & Hayes is committed to assisting victims in seeking justice against drunk drivers.

We understand the profound impact such events can have on your life, causing not only physical harm but emotional trauma and financial stress as well. Though seeking justice and compensation following an accident can seem intimidating, our partners are prepared to guide you through every step of the legal process. 

If you or a loved one has sustained an injury due to an accident involving a drunk driver, know that we stand ready to assist you. Our team can build a compelling case on your behalf, with the goal of obtaining just compensation for your injuries and losses. 

Together, we can confront this challenge and work toward recovery.

Call (417) 785-3410 to schedule a free initial case consultation with a drunk driving attorney in Springfield today.

Criminal Versus Civil Justice

Upon arrest, a drunk driver is liable under criminal and civil laws. Therefore, as the victim, you will likely be simultaneously involved in proceedings in both courts. 
The defendant faces incarceration, probation, driver's license suspension, and fines if convicted in criminal court. The judge might also mandate restitution, although it is seldom adequate to offset the significant harm inflicted by the intoxicated driver.

In order to recover damages, you need to negotiate with your insurance company and file a claim in civil court. Your damages potential is much higher in a DUI case than other types of vehicular injury claims because you are entitled to punitive damages. 

Punitive damages are only awarded when the defendant's conduct is deemed egregious, going beyond mere negligence. In legal contexts, driving under the influence is often viewed as particularly egregious due to the high risk it poses to public safety and well-being.

In criminal court, the standard for liability is the high threshold of "beyond a reasonable doubt," meaning the evidence must be compelling. In civil court, the standard is lower with "preponderance of the evidence," suggesting it just needs to show the defendant's liability is more likely than not. The stricter criminal court standard makes it possible for a defendant to be cleared in criminal court but still found liable in civil court for damages.

Springfield, MO, Drunk Driving Statistics

Each year, countless lives are changed forever due to the recklessness of intoxicated drivers. These accidents contribute significantly to the state's traffic-related injuries and fatalities, underscoring the importance of legal action in these situations. 

The following statistics paint a picture of the effects of drunk driving in Springfield:

• Shocking statistics: In the most recent year, Springfield, MO, saw 616 DWI cases reported. This number highlights the widespread nature of this problem.
• Deadly consequences: Nearly 20% of traffic fatalities involving people under 21 are caused by alcohol-impaired driving. Further, 70.2% of deadly drunk driving crashes involve drivers with very high blood alcohol levels.
• Alarming trend: In 2023, vehicle deaths where alcohol was likely involved rose by 72% compared to the previous year.

It's crucial to recognize that behind every statistic is a person, a family, that this preventable offense has impacted. Our involvement in your case is more than just about legal proceedings; it's about contributing to a broader effort to hold negligent drivers accountable and advocating for safer roads in our community.