DUI car accidents in Missouri are menacing and result in some of the largest verdicts and settlements in this state.  Unfortunately, these large verdicts and settlements may not be sending a stiff enough message to regulators.  Motorists who are found guilty of driving under the influence of alcohol are regularly given second and third chances to get behind the wheel, without any significant punishment or motivation to change their ways.  For example, Troy Zerna was going on his second DWI charge when he crashed his vehicle into another in February 2008 in Missouri, killing 28 year-old Dennie Riegel.  Riegel's fiance, who was pregnant at the time and in the vehicle, was seriously injured as a result of the crash.  Just this month a $90 million settlement was approved for the civil claim filed by the survivors of the crash. 

So what are regulators doing to proactively curb drunk driving, which is causing death and injuries each week in Missouri?  In October, Gov. Nixon met in Jefferson City at his DWI summit, which addresses ways to control DWI.  Simply put, Missouri is not strict enough on DUI first time or repeat offenders.  In many circumstances, DUI offenders are able to keep their license.  As a Missouri DUI car accident lawyer, I am pushing for stiffer penalties geared to protect Missouri motorists from drunk drivers.  Many states, such as New York, put ignition interlock devices on the vehicles of any person convicted of drunk driving. 

If you have been seriously injured or lost a loved one as a result of a reckless drunk driver, contact attorney Stephen Schultz personally by calling (314) 448-0934.  Don't let a drunk driver get a pass.  Our injury attorneys will aggressively seek recompense from all parties potentially liable, including any bars that potentially overserved the drunk driver.