Should I Get a DWI Injury Lawyer?

Drunk driving is one of the most dangerous and reckless behaviors on the road. When someone chooses to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol, they put not only their own life at risk but also the lives of innocent drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. If you or a loved one has been injured in a DWI accident, the road to recovery can be overwhelming and uncertain. A DWI injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and hold the drunk driver accountable.

The Dangerous Reality of Drunk Driving Accidents

Every year, thousands of lives are forever changed by drunk driving accidents. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, alcohol/drugs and speeding were the two highest Probable Contributing Circumstances in fatal crashes in 2022. Of all fatal crashes, 34.3% involved speed and 23.1% involved alcohol/drugs.

Drunk drivers often have slowed reaction times, impaired judgment, and reduced motor skills, making it extremely difficult for them to respond appropriately to changing road conditions. This impaired state leads to devastating crashes, often involving higher speeds and more violent collisions. Victims of these accidents frequently suffer from life-threatening injuries, and in the worst cases, families are left grieving the loss of a loved one.

Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents

The injuries sustained in drunk driving accidents are often severe due to the reckless nature of the crashes. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head trauma is common in DWI crashes, and the consequences can be long-term, leading to memory loss, cognitive issues, and emotional disturbances.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis, impacting a victim’s ability to live independently.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: These can take months to heal and often require surgery or long-term rehabilitation.
• Internal Organ Damage: High-speed collisions can cause damage to internal organs, leading to internal bleeding, organ failure, and other life-threatening conditions.
• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Even in lower-speed impacts, the force of a drunk driving crash can lead to soft tissue damage, resulting in chronic pain and mobility issues.

In many cases, these injuries require extensive medical treatment, ongoing rehabilitation, and time away from work. For victims, this often means significant medical bills and lost wages, adding financial strain to an already difficult situation.

Legal Time Limits for Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit

In Missouri, there is a limited time to file a personal injury lawsuit after a drunk driving accident. The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in the state is generally five years from the date of the accident. While this may seem like a long time, it’s important to act quickly. Gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and building a strong case takes time, and any delays can make it more challenging to pursue compensation. If you’re considering legal action, consulting a DWI injury lawyer soon after the accident is essential. They can help ensure that your rights are protected, and that you take the appropriate steps within the necessary time frame.

What to Do Immediately After a Drunk Driving Accident

If you’ve been involved in an accident with a drunk driver, the steps you take immediately following the crash can make a significant difference in your recovery and your ability to seek justice.

1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and having documentation of your injuries is critical for your legal case.
2. Call the Police: Always report the accident to law enforcement. The police report will be a vital piece of evidence in proving the driver’s intoxication and fault.
3. Document the Scene: If you’re able, take pictures of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Exchange contact information with any witnesses.
4. Don’t Speak to Insurance Adjusters Alone: Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for less than what victims are entitled to. Speaking to a DWI injury lawyer before accepting any offers ensures that your rights are protected.
5. Contact a DWI Injury Lawyer: Drunk driving accident cases can be complex, involving both criminal and civil legal issues. A skilled lawyer can help you navigate the process, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Choosing to work with a DWI injury lawyer is one of the most important decisions you can make after being injured in a drunk driving accident. A lawyer can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident.

By holding the drunk driver accountable, you can also help prevent future tragedies. Drunk driving is a choice, and when individuals face legal consequences, it reinforces the message that this behavior will not be tolerated. While no amount of money can undo the physical and emotional trauma caused by a DWI accident, seeking justice can provide some measure of closure.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, contact the experienced attorneys at Harper, Evans, Hibrenner & Netemeyer. Our skilled team of DWI injury lawyers can guide you through the legal process, fight to protect your rights, and work to ensure you receive the support and compensation you deserve. Reaching out to an attorney can be the first step toward holding the responsible parties accountable and beginning the path to recovery.