When someone decides to get behind the wheel after drinking, the fallout can be heartbreaking. It is not just about the criminal charges—they do not heal the injuries, ease the emotional strain, or cover the medical bills. Those consequences fall on the victims, who are left to pick up the pieces physically, emotionally, and financially. Seeking an injury claim is often the only way to get money for the costs of recovery, medical care, and the long-term impacts of the accident.
What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident (and the Evidence That Matters Most)
What you do right after a drunk driving crash can make a big difference in your case. Call 911 so police and medical responders can document what happened. Even if you think you are okay, see a doctor—some injuries, such as concussions or internal damage, may not show up right away.
If it is safe, take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and anything else that could help later. Get witnesses’ contact information, but avoid talking about fault or posting online—insurance companies may use your words against you. Once you have gotten medical care, reach out to an attorney to handle insurance calls and guide your next steps.
The evidence collected after the crash will play a massive role in your claim. Police reports, witness statements, medical records, and photos or videos all help tell the story of what happened. Keep copies of hospital bills, therapy costs, and proof of missed work to show the financial toll the accident has taken. Your attorney may also work with experts to explain how intoxication caused the crash and how it has affected your life. Every detail helps build a stronger case in your favor.
Why a Civil Claim Still Matters
Many people believe that once the drunk driver is charged, their case is closed, but criminal cases are about punishment, not compensation for the victim. Jail time or a lost license does not pay medical bills or make up for what you have been through.
A personal injury claim focuses on you. It helps cover your financial and emotional losses and gives you a voice. The prosecutor represents the state in a criminal case, but your attorney represents you in a civil case—fighting for your rights and helping you move forward after the crash.
When to Contact an Attorney
Timing matters after a drunk driving crash. Once you have received medical care, it’s imperative to talk to an attorney as soon as you’re able, because over time, witnesses may forget important details, and video footage may vanish. In Missouri, you generally have five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to bring the case forward in the court system.
The Value of Legal Representation
Drunk driving cases can feel overwhelming because there’s so much happening at once—criminal charges, insurance calls, and the civil claim for your injuries. Handling it all while you’re hurt or healing is a huge task to take on. An attorney who knows the local courts and laws can step in to manage the paperwork, gather evidence, and push for a fair outcome so you can focus on recovery.
If settlement talks fail, your lawyer can file your claim in court before the statutory deadline. Their involvement often leads to stronger results and fewer mistakes that could delay compensation.
Moving Forward After a Drunk Driving Accident
Filing an injury claim after a drunk driving accident is about more than money—it is about accountability and stability. Your financial recovery doesn’t depend on whether a prosecutor wins a conviction in a criminal case. Civil claims allow victims to rebuild their lives with financial support for medical care, therapy, and lost income.
If a drunk driver in Southern Missouri has injured you or a loved one, contact Privette Law Office. Our team helps victims pursue the justice and recovery they need to move forward with confidence.