According to a report from 41 KSHB Kansas City, Matthew Alexander Jacobo is facing serious criminal charges for a hit-and-run that left a young child with serious injuries earlier this month. In this article, our Kansas City motor vehicle accident attorney provides an overview of what we know about this crash and explains what makes DUI collision claims different.
Devastating DUI Crash in Johnson County Leaves Child in Critical Condition
Law enforcement officials have confirmed that a Kansas City man named Matthew Alexander Jacobo has been charged with several felony offenses following a December 1, 2023, crash that happened in Shawnee, Kansas. Among other things, Mr. Jacobo is facing charges of DUI aggravated battery, and leaving the scene of an accident. Sadly, this crash left a 9-year-old child with devastating injuries. The young child was airlifted to a local emergency room in Johnson County from the scene of the crash. They were listed as being in critical condition. The matter is still being investigated.
What Makes DUI Accident Claims in Kansas Different
Unfortunately, intoxicated driving remains a serious public safety threat. According to data from Responsiblity.org, around 90 people are killed in DUI crashes in Kansas each year. Many more people suffer serious injuries—sometimes including innocent young children. For the victims, DUI accident claims can be especially complex. Here are some key reasons why these cases are different:
- Strict Liability for DUI Offenders: In Kansas, DUI laws impose strict liability on offenders. If a person is found to be driving under the influence, they are automatically considered at fault for the accident. An intoxicated motorist must be held accountable.
- More Serious Crashes: When drunk driving accidents happen, they are disproportionately likely to result in severe injuries or even fatalities.
- A DUI is a Criminal Offense: A DUI is not just a traffic violation in Kansas—it is a criminal offense. To be clear, the criminal case is a separate legal matter from the victim’s civil legal claim for compensation for their injuries. That being said, the evidence from a criminal trial may be relevant to a civil personal injury claim.
- Enhanced Penalties and Damages: DUI accidents often result in enhanced penalties and damages. In some cases, injured victims may seek punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages. In Kansas, punitive damages may only be granted in circumstances in which a defendant engaged in willful or wanton misconduct.
Contact Our Kansas City DUI Accident Attorney Today
At House Law LLC, our Kansas City car accident lawyer has the skills and experience to take on all types of claims, including DUI accidents. If you or your child was hurt in a crash with an intoxicated driver, we are here to help you fight for justice and full financial compensation.
Call us now or connect with us online for a free, no-strings-attached initial consultation. We represent victims and families in Kansas City, Johnson County, and throughout the wider region of Kansas.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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