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Columbia, MO Drunk Driving Accident Injury Lawyer

Alcohol could cause slow reflexes and motor functions, as well as decreased concentration and coordination. When a driver chooses to get behind the wheel while intoxicated, they could cause devastating damages and injuries. The negligent driver could be held liable for damages following a motor vehicle collision.

If you or a loved one were injured to an impaired driver, you could have a viable claim for any injuries you sustained. A compassionate car accident attorney at the A.W. Smith Law Firm could review your case and help you evaluate its strength. We have decades of experience helping injured victims recovering compensation from negligent drivers. To learn more about the process of filing an injury lawsuit, contact a Columbia, MO drunk driving car accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Missouri DUI Laws

The State of Missouri has outlawed driving while under the influence (DUI) of alcohol. A driver violates state law if they operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 percent or more. The BAC is the measure of alcohol in a driver’s body. Generally speaking, a higher BAC coincides with a higher level of impairment.

If the state convicts a driver of DUI in Columbia, they could face fines, jail time, and the suspension of their driver’s license. However, the sentence stemming from criminal prosecution is not the only consequence an impaired driver might face. If the drunk driver caused a crash, a knowledgeable Columbia DUI accident attorney could pursue monetary damages against them.

Proving Driver Intoxication in a Civil Suit

Evidence that a driver was intoxicated is the central issue of criminal DUI cases. However, whether a driver was under the influence when they caused an accident is powerful evidence in an injury lawsuit as well. The primary role of a Columbia drunk driving car accident attorney is to show that the defendant’s negligent actions caused the collision. Proof that the defendant was intoxicated during the crash can go a long way to convincing a jury of their negligence.

There are many different ways to demonstrate to a jury that the defendant was intoxicated. The most common form of evidence comes from the law enforcement investigation. A conviction for DUI or a chemical test reflecting a high BAC is strong evidence of intoxication.

Another piece of evidence used in both criminal and civil is the result of field sobriety tests. Law enforcement will often perform field sobriety tests at the site of an accident when the suspect intoxication. These tests are designed to establish if a driver was intoxicated that the time of a wreck, and involve walking a straight line or balancing on one foot.

Reach Out to a Columbia Drunk Driving Car Accident Attorney Today

If you sustained were in a car accident due to a drunk driver, it is essential that you consider all of your legal options. While it is possible to hold a drunken driver accountable, the litigation process is never simple.

If you are ready to take action against a drunken driver, you deserve skilled legal representation on your side. Our diligent legal team has the knowledge, skills, and resources to help your case. Let us help you hold the negligent driver accountable for their actions. Contact an experienced Columbia drunk driving car accident lawyer to schedule a free consultation.