The Most Dangerous Days for Drunk Driving: What Kansas City, MO Residents Need to Know
Drunk driving remains a serious threat on Kansas City’s roads, especially during holidays, long weekends, and major events when alcohol consumption spikes. These high-risk periods see a significant rise in impaired driving crashes, injuries, and fatalities—putting countless lives in danger.
As seasoned Kansas City auto accident injury trial lawyers, we have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of impaired driving. Victims often suffer life-changing injuries, while families face unimaginable grief after losing loved ones in preventable crashes. By understanding when these risks peak, Kansas City residents can take steps to stay safe and make informed choices. Here is what you need to know:
The Alarming Reality of Impaired Driving in Missouri
Drunk driving is a persistent issue nationwide, but Missouri faces particularly concerning trends when it comes to impaired driving fatalities.
- Impaired driving contributes to 18% of all traffic fatalities in Missouri.
- Over the past decade, alcohol-related deaths have decreased by 15%, but drug-impaired fatalities have increased by 24%.
- Every 79 seconds, someone is injured or killed in a drunk driving crash.
- Sleep deprivation can impair driving just as much as alcohol—being awake for 21 hours straight is equivalent to a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08.
Although alcohol-related crashes have declined slightly in recent years, drug-impaired driving continues to be a growing concern. The rise in opioid use and increased marijuana consumption among drivers present new challenges for law enforcement and public safety officials.
How Missouri Compares to National Trends
Missouri’s impaired driving fatality rate remains higher than the national average, with alcohol and drug-related crashes taking hundreds of lives each year. Nationwide:
- 32% of all traffic deaths involve a driver with a BAC of 0.08 or higher.
- Drunk driving deaths have increased by 33% since 2019.
- In 2021 alone, 13,384 people died in alcohol-impaired crashes—a 14% increase from the previous year.
- Two out of three people will be impacted by a drunk driving crash in their lifetime.
These statistics highlight the urgent need for awareness, stronger enforcement, and personal responsibility when it comes to impaired driving.
The Most Dangerous Days for Drunk Driving in Kansas City
National crash data and local law enforcement reports confirm that DUI-related incidents peak on specific holidays and major events.
High-Risk Days in Kansas City
Certain events and celebrations in Kansas City may contribute to increased DUI-related accidents, including:
- 🏈 Chiefs and Royals games – Tailgating, post-game celebrations, and bar gatherings contribute to increased alcohol consumption.
- 🎤 Concerts and festivals – Large-scale music events and cultural festivals often involve alcohol, leading to more impaired drivers on the road.
- 🎡 State fairs and community events – Seasonal events featuring beer gardens and extended festivities result in higher DUI rates.
The Deadliest Holidays for Drunk Driving
- New Year’s Day – The Most Dangerous Day for DUI Crashes
The early hours of January 1st see a surge in fatal crashes as intoxicated drivers leave celebrations and head home. - Fourth of July – A Holiday of Fireworks and Fatalities
Independence Day ranks among the deadliest holidays for drunk driving, with alcohol consumption common at barbecues, pool parties, and fireworks displays. - Memorial Day Weekend – The Start of Summer, The Start of Risk
The long holiday weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, with increased travel and a rise in alcohol-related crashes. - Labor Day Weekend – End-of-Summer Dangers
Many people celebrate the close of summer with drinking, leading to a sharp uptick in DUI-related accidents. - Thanksgiving Eve – “Blackout Wednesday”
The night before Thanksgiving has become a notorious drinking holiday, as young adults home for the holiday gather at bars in record numbers. - Christmas and the Holiday Season – A Time of Joy and Increased DUI Risk
Holiday parties, family gatherings, and seasonal stress contribute to a rise in impaired driving incidents throughout December.
Why Do These Days See More DUI Accidents?
Several factors contribute to the spike in drunk driving crashes during these high-risk periods:
- Cultural and social norms – Alcohol consumption is heavily associated with holiday celebrations and sporting events.
- Increased alcohol sales – Higher alcohol purchases during holidays lead to more impaired drivers on the road.
- Heavy traffic and travel – More people traveling means more opportunities for impaired driving accidents.
Missouri’s Dram Shop Laws: Holding Bars and Restaurants Accountable
While drivers bear responsibility for their actions, Missouri law allows victims to hold bars and restaurants accountable if they serve alcohol to an underage or visibly intoxicated person who later causes harm.
Key Provisions of Missouri’s Dram Shop Law (R.S.Mo. Section 537.053)
- Establishments can be held liable if they knowingly serve alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person or a minor.
- Blood alcohol content (BAC) alone is not enough to prove visible intoxication—clear evidence such as slurred speech, stumbling, or other noticeable signs must be shown.
- Businesses must train employees to refuse service to intoxicated patrons.
Proving Dram Shop Liability
To hold a business accountable, victims must demonstrate that:
✔ The bar or restaurant served alcohol to a minor or a visibly intoxicated individual.
✔ The impaired individual later caused an accident resulting in injury or death.
Legal protections for employees: Missouri law protects employees from being fired for refusing to serve alcohol to an intoxicated customer, encouraging responsible service.
Legal Options for DUI Accident Victims in Kansas City
If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk or drug-impaired driver, you have the right to seek compensation.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
Victims of DUI accidents may recover compensation for:
✔ Medical expenses (hospital bills, rehabilitation, ongoing care)
✔ Lost wages (time off work due to injuries)
✔ Pain and suffering (physical and emotional distress)
Pursuing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Families who have lost a loved one due to a DUI crash may seek compensation for:
✔ Funeral and burial costs
✔ Loss of financial support
✔ Emotional distress and suffering
Holding Bars and Restaurants Liable Under Dram Shop Laws
If a business negligently served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who caused a crash, victims may pursue legal action against the establishment.
How to Prevent DUI Accidents in Kansas City
🚗 Plan Ahead – Use a designated driver, taxi, or rideshare service.
🚦 Stay Alert on the Road – Watch for erratic drivers, especially on high-risk days.
📢 Spread Awareness – Educate friends and family about the dangers of impaired driving.
Injured by a Drunk Driver? Kendall Law Group Can Help
Drunk and drug-impaired driving crashes are 100% preventable—yet they continue to devastate families across Kansas City. If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI-related accident, the skilled auto accident injury trial lawyers at Kendall Law Group are here to help you put your life back together.
Seek a consultation with a Kansas City personal injury lawyer before signing any insurance documents or providing any statements, whether written or recorded.
Call Kendall Law Group at 📞 (816) 531-3100 for a free consultation. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Additional Resources
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