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The average settlement hit by a drunk driver will help one in understanding what one is expecting in courts of law when trying to get justice and compensation after an accident. Settlements in Missouri can vary, though, depending on factors including the severity of injuries or property damage. Our Kansas City car accident lawyers understand such variables helps victims make informed decisions about pursuing claims. Our legal team plays the most important role in guiding a victim through this complex process and fighting for fair compensation while also holding negligent drivers accountable under the law.
The average settlement amount in any car accident with a drunk driver can go up in Missouri, averaging from some thousands to millions depending on but not limited to how grave the injury is. Laws allowing punitive damages against drunk drivers could significantly increase the large settlement amounts in Missouri. Driving while intoxicated is a severe offense in Missouri as it is defined under Missouri Revised Statutes Section 577.010, which involves serious legal consequences; more specifically, civil liability to pay damages.
Medical bills-past, current, and future
Missouri law recognizes that holding drunk drivers legally responsible compensates victims and deters this type of reckless behavior in the future. Both purposes make sure victims recover financially while assuring safer driving practices statewide.
Being involved in an accident with a drunk driver in Missouri leads to overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial burdens. State law provides the victims with compensatory and punitive damages based on troubles that they have to endure. Compensatory damages will include economic tangible losses such as medical expenses, non-economic such as emotional trauma. Punitive damages, on account of gross negligence, are intended to penalize the wrongdoer and deter similar acts from happening in the future.
Missouri law sees to it that the victim gets the necessary care for the long-term outcomes, like disability or a degraded quality of life, and hence is able to recover and get justice.
The amount of settlements really varies depending on the different damages involved. Some of the common types of settlements are briefly explained below.
It is important to note that these figures are averages and actual settlements can vary. Everything depends on the particular case of an accident, the behavior of the drunk driver, and the circumstances of a victim. All these factors determine the amount of settlement.
Missouri law considers numerous factors when assessing the amount of settlement. The main ones include:
Unfortunately, many drunk drivers have inadequate insurance to cover the losses they cause. Fortunately, victims often have a claim under their own uninsured/underinsured motorist policy in such situations. Missouri law requires drivers to carry this type of coverage, further protecting accident victims.
Missouri law demands minimum liability insurance coverage for drivers, and it has been presented under 577.012:
However, these minimums may not fully cover your losses. Victims often face costs that far exceed these minimum amounts, especially in cases involving severe injuries or extensive property damage. In such situations, pursuing compensation through other avenues, such as personal umbrella policies or litigation, may be necessary.
Missouri’s uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage requirements provide an essential safety net. Drivers must carry at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury due to uninsured motorists. This is added on top to ensure more avenues of recovery when the at-fault driver has inadequate coverage.
Insurance companies seldom make a first offer to settle that is his — and seldom do they get anything but first offer. An insurance company will most certainly try and knock down the money they will have to pay you by offering substantially less money than what you deserve. These offers might not take into account future January medical needs, lost earning potential or the full extent of physical and emotional injury. Acceding to this offer very early on can lead to serious financial strain over time.
A personal injury lawyer will be able to skillfully evaluate the proposed settlement to make sure it is adequate to cover all your damages, including medical needs and rehabilitation costs over an extended period.
Accepting an inadequate settlement may mean you will have to pay a substantial amount out of pocket for long-term expenses. It is also why quality legal representation is very important to receive adequate compensation.
Our car accident attorneys in Kansas City provide staunch support for drunk driving victims to secure justice and compensation. Here are the key ways they assist clients:
Applying their knowledge of the law, attorneys protect the rights of victims and hold drunk drivers accountable under Missouri law. The commitment ensures that all clients’ needs are met with professional assistance in not only legal matters but also the complexities of the claim process.
We have a committed legal team to help the victim through the intricacies of his or her case for the best possible outcome. They will handle the negotiations and litigation while giving you time to recover with them at your side.
Victims of drunk driving collisions should be given justice and appropriately compensated. Do not bear the suffering of this miserable time yourself; our staff at Devkota Law Firm is here to help you. Call us today at (816) 207-4255 or visit at 4010 Washington Street, Suite 350, Kansas City, MO 64111, and attain a highly qualified attorney who will be aggressive in your rights and ensure the best possible results in your case.
Tarak Devkota is the founder and managing partner of Devkota Law Firm LLC, dedicated to representing individuals in Kansas and Missouri. Practicing law since 1999, Mr. Devkota has led numerous high-stakes cases involving personal injury, insurance disputes, and claims against government entities. Known for his exceptional jury trial expertise, Tarak has successfully resolved complex litigation cases, consistently advocating for justice on behalf of his clients.
•Over 25 years of legal experience in Kansas and Missouri.
•Founder of Devkota Law Firm LLC, specializing in personal injury and governmental liability.
•Recognized for taking on challenging cases and achieving outstanding results.
Linkedin Page: Tarak Devkota
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4010 Washington Street, Suite 350 Kansas City, MO 64111
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Independence, MO 64050
320 W 21st St,
Wichita, KS 67203