Drunk Driving Accidents

Chesterfield Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys

Fighting For Drunk Driving Accident Victims in Missouri

Drunk driving accidents cause devastating consequences for victims and their families. If you or someone you love was injured in a drunk driving crash in Chesterfield, you don’t have to face this alone. At Nichols Lang & Hamlin, our drunk driving accident attorneys in Chesterfield help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and pursue fair compensation for your losses.

Call Nichols Lang & Hamlin at (314) 309-2301 or contact us online to speak with an experienced Chesterfield car accident attorney today!

How an Attorney Can Help You

After a drunk driving accident, victims often face mounting medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Our experienced attorneys guide you through the legal process and work to protect your rights. At Nichols Lang & Hamlin, LLC, we can:

  •  Conduct a thorough investigation of the crash
  • Identify all liable parties
  • Negotiate with insurance companies
  • Represent you in court if needed

Each drunk driving crash brings its own circumstances. When you work with our team, you get guidance tailored to your situation. We stay updated on changes in Missouri law and local Chesterfield regulations that might impact your claim. Our attorneys keep you informed throughout the process so you always understand your options. Whether your accident happened on busy stretches like Highway 40 or quieter Chesterfield neighborhoods, our local knowledge supports your case.

With our support, you can focus on your recovery while we manage the legal details.

Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving accidents can cause a range of serious injuries, including:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): High-impact collisions can result in long-lasting cognitive and emotional challenges.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries may lead to paralysis or permanent disability.
  • Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of a crash can require extensive treatment and rehabilitation.
  • Burns: Victims may suffer burns either on impact or during a collision, which often require specialized care.
  • Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) commonly affect accident victims.

These injuries often result in lifelong disabilities, chronic pain, and ongoing emotional trauma. Seek medical attention as soon as possible and consult a drunk driving accident attorney in Chesterfield to protect your interests.

Getting a prompt diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes after a crash. Chesterfield residents benefit from access to well-equipped local medical resources like St. Luke’s Hospital and area trauma centers. Quick coordination with emergency care helps both your recovery and provides crucial documentation for insurance and legal purposes. If you need ongoing therapy or adaptive equipment, we help ensure that all future expenses are properly considered. Our approach reflects the full impact of your injuries now and into the future.

Identifying Liable Parties in Drunk Driving Accidents

Missouri law allows various parties to be held responsible for damages caused by drunk driving accidents:

  • Drunk Drivers: The impaired driver is often liable both criminally and civilly.
  • Establishments Serving Alcohol: Missouri's dram shop laws hold businesses accountable when they serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated patrons who cause accidents.
  • Social Hosts: Private hosts may be liable if they provide alcohol to minors or allow intoxicated guests to drive.
  • Employers: An employer may have liability if the driver was on the job at the time of the crash.

Missouri follows a comparative fault system, which means each party’s legal responsibility can affect the amount of damages paid. Identifying everyone who may share liability can open doors to broader recovery options. In Chesterfield, bar and restaurant owners need to pay particular attention to city ordinances and Missouri’s dram shop rules because local serving practices can have legal consequences. Our team reviews police records, witness statements, and business practices to ensure your claim includes every party that contributed to your losses.

What To Do Immediately After a Drunk Driving Accident in Chesterfield

Taking the right steps after a drunk driving accident in Chesterfield helps protect your health and strengthens your legal claim. Always get medical care right away—even if you think you are not badly hurt. Medical professionals at places like St. Luke’s Hospital can check for hidden injuries and begin documentation. Contact law enforcement so the Chesterfield Police Department or Missouri Highway Patrol can secure the scene and file an official report. Collect information from all involved parties, including witnesses. Take photographs of the scene, the vehicles, and any visible injuries, if possible. Keep copies of receipts, records of missed work, and other related documents. Avoid giving statements about fault to insurance companies before you have legal guidance. The team at Nichols Lang & Hamlin will help you organize essential documents, communicate with local agencies, and guide you through the process. Taking these actions early supports both your recovery and your legal case.

Understanding Missouri’s Statute of Limitations for Drunk Driving Accident Claims

Missouri law sets a five-year deadline for filing most personal injury claims after a drunk driving accident. If you miss this window, you may not have an opportunity to seek damages in court. Factors such as a person’s age or possible government involvement could affect your timeline. Pay careful attention to these requirements to help protect your right to recovery. Chesterfield cases may involve local legal elements, from how police document the event to proceedings in the Chesterfield Municipal Court. We recommend reaching out quickly after a crash so our attorneys can help monitor deadlines and gather key evidence. Taking prompt steps helps preserve your options and gives us a strong foundation to help you move forward. If you are unsure about how the statute of limitations applies in your case, ask our legal team to provide clear guidance and keep your claim on track.

Local Support for Drunk Driving Accident Victims in Chesterfield

Busy roads such as Chesterfield Parkway and Olive Boulevard see increased traffic and impaired-driving risks, especially during weekends and holidays. Our attorneys understand these local patterns and work closely with the Chesterfield Police Department and Municipal Court to ensure your claim reflects the community context.

We also help clients access resources through the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) for accident data and road safety reports. Nearby hospitals like St. Luke’s Hospital and Mercy Hospital St. Louis provide excellent trauma care, though costs can rise quickly. Our attorneys pursue full compensation to cover both immediate and long-term medical needs.

Chesterfield’s close-knit community feels the impact of every drunk driving accident. We offer legal advocacy with compassion—connecting clients to local victim support organizations, counseling, and other community resources throughout recovery.

Contact Our Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers in Chesterfield Today

The attorneys at Nichols Lang & Hamlin are ready to help you hold negligent drivers accountable and secure the recovery you deserve. With deep knowledge of Missouri law and proven results across the state, our Chesterfield drunk driving accident attorneys combine skill, dedication, and local insight to guide you forward.

Time is critical. Missouri law enforces strict filing deadlines, and early action preserves vital evidence. Our team evaluates your situation, explains your options clearly, and manages every legal detail so you can focus on healing.

If you have been harmed in a drunk driving accident, don’t struggle with the process alone. Reach out to Nichols Lang & Hamlin for a free initial consultation. Our legal team is here to support your rights and pursue the compensation you need.

We’ve helped Missouri families recover after serious crashes—Call (314) 309-2301 or fill out our online form to get started on your case today.

Commonly Asked Questions

Can establishments be held liable for drunk driving accidents in Missouri?

Yes, under Missouri's dram shop laws, establishments that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated patrons may be held liable for accidents caused by those individuals. If you've been injured by a drunk driver and believe an establishment may be at fault, it's important to consult with an attorney who can evaluate the specifics of your case and advise you on the potential for holding that establishment accountable.

What types of compensation can I recover after a drunk driving accident in Chesterfield?

Victims of drunk driving accidents in Chesterfield may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. An experienced attorney can help you assess the full extent of your damages and fight for the maximum compensation available under Missouri law.

The Opinions That Matter Most

Read Our 5-Star Reviews
  • If you are looking for the best representation for your auto accident in St. Louis, look no further. We retained Nichols Lang and Hamlin for a car accident we were in, and we could not have found a better attorney.
    - Former Client
  • After sustaining a traumatic injury, I was referred to Attorney Mike Hamlin. I could not foresee what a blessing he and Michelle would become in my life.
    - Joni A.
  • He is very great at explaining everything that is going on with the case and answering all my questions. Great communication, work ethic, and outcome. 10/10!
    - Connor F.
  • "I would highly recommend him for your legal concerns."
    Mr. Nichols helped me with a difficult family litigation. We were able to get a swift and excellent conclusion for all involved. He was a great listener and explained everything. I would highly recommend him for your legal concerns.
    - Deb R.
  • "If there were 10 stars, I would give him and NLH that."
    After working with Mike at NLH, my faith in lawyers has been restored. Mike did exactly what I needed, in a timely and very courteous manner, and then even went above and beyond to make matters right for me. If there were 10 stars, I would give him and NLH that. Thank you, Mike!
    - Steve T.