Kansas City Drunk Driving Accident Attorney: Justice for Crash Victims

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an average of 32 people die daily due to drunk driving crashes in the US. In fact, nearly 12,000 people died in impaired driving crashes recently. Sadly, these tragedies are completely preventable.

If an impaired driver injured you or a loved one, you need a dedicated Kansas City drunk driving accident attorney. At The Cagle Law Firm, we know that a car accident involving an intoxicated driver is not just a mistake—it is a gross act of negligence.

Whether your collision occurred on I-70, near the Power & Light District, or on a quiet Jackson County residential street, we can help. Our personal injury attorneys aggressively fight to recover maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.  Contact us toll-free at (800) 685-3302 or (314) 276-1681. 

Missouri Laws Protecting Drunk Driving Victims

When you pursue a civil claim against a drunk driver in Missouri, you have specific legal rights. While criminal courts will prosecute the driver for their DUI, our job is to represent you in civil court to ensure your financial recovery.

Pursuing Punitive Damages

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs displays a reckless disregard for human life. Consequently, Missouri courts frequently allow victims to pursue “punitive damages.” These are extra damages designed to financially punish the drunk driver. Furthermore, they serve to deter others from making the same reckless choice.

Third-Party Liability: Missouri Dram Shop Law

The drunk driver may not be the only party responsible for your injuries. Under Missouri’s Dram Shop Law (RSMo § 537.053), you can sometimes hold a bar, restaurant, or nightclub liable if they provided alcohol to the driver.

Specifically, a commercial establishment can be held financially responsible if they:

• Knowingly served alcohol to a minor under the age of 21.
• Knowingly served alcohol to a patron who was “visibly intoxicated” (showing significantly uncoordinated physical action).

The Strict Statute of Limitations

Time is of the essence when filing a personal injury claim. Generally, Missouri provides a strict five (5) year window from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit (RSMo § 516.120).

However, if the drunk driving accident resulted in the tragic loss of a loved one, you must file a wrongful death claim within exactly three years. Because physical evidence disappears quickly, securing video surveillance from bars or traffic cameras requires immediate action. Therefore, you must contact an attorney right away.

Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Crash

1. Call 911 Immediately: Always involve the Kansas City Police Department or Missouri State Highway Patrol. Tell responding officers if you smell alcohol so they can administer a breathalyzer test.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Go to a local emergency room, such as St. Luke’s or Truman Medical Center. Adrenaline frequently masks severe internal injuries.
3. Gather Evidence: If it is safe, take photos of the vehicles and the scene. However, do not engage aggressively with the intoxicated driver.
4. Contact Your Attorney: Before speaking to the drunk driver’s insurance adjuster, contact our Kansas City personal injury team.

Types of Car Accidents We Handle in Kansas City

At The Cagle Law Firm, our trial lawyers handle every kind of severe vehicle crash, including:

• Head-On Collisions: These are generally the most severe crashes because they combine the force of two speeding vehicles.
• T-Bone Accidents: Side-impact crashes result in serious injuries because vehicle doors offer less structural protection.
• Rear-End Collisions: Often caused by distracted or impaired drivers failing to stop at intersections.
• Rollover Accidents: These violent crashes frequently cause traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and spinal cord damage.
• Pedestrian Accidents & Bicycle Accidents: Drunk drivers often fail to see vulnerable road users crossing urban streets or parking lots.
• Commercial Truck Accidents: Collisions involving heavy commercial vehicles require complex investigations into federal safety violations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still get compensated if the drunk driver is found not guilty in criminal court?

Yes. The criminal justice system requires proof “beyond a reasonable doubt.” However, a civil personal injury claim only requires proof by a “preponderance of the evidence.” Therefore, you can successfully win a civil settlement even if the driver avoids a criminal DUI conviction.

What if I was hit by an uninsured drunk driver in Kansas City?

If the drunk driver lacked insurance, our attorneys will look into your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. Fortunately, Missouri law requires all drivers to carry UM coverage. This policy compensates you when the at-fault driver has no insurance.

How much does it cost to hire a Kansas City drunk driving accident attorney?

At The Cagle Law Firm, we work on a strict contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely nothing upfront. We only collect a legal fee if we successfully recover a settlement or jury verdict on your behalf.

Consult with Founding Advocate Zane T. Cagle

Drinking and driving should never mix. When drivers choose to climb behind the wheel intoxicated, innocent people get hurt. We firmly believe that injured people deserve justice, and insurance carriers must pay a price for corporate greed.

You do not have to face corporate insurance defense teams alone. Led by founding trial advocate Zane T. Cagle, our legal team provides dedicated representation to help your family secure justice.

Contact The Cagle Law Firm today to schedule your 100% free, confidential case evaluation. Call us locally at (314) 276-1681 or toll-free at (800) 685-3302.

Zane T. Cagle has represented injured clients across Missouri for over 20 years. As a member of the Multi Million Dollar Advocates Forum and a recognized Super Lawyer, Zane provides aggressive, trusted advocacy. See our Case Results to learn more

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