In this day and age, it seems that Missouri roadways are filled with careless accidents. Unfortunately, fatal car accidents are painful scenes, and it can be hard for families to process the situation at hand. Sadly, many of these tragedies can be prevented.

A recent fatal, two-car accident could have been prevented. While traveling along a Missouri highway on Dec. 30, 2016, a driver crashed into another vehicle, killing a 39-year-old man and injuring a 6-year-old child. Police say the driver responsible for the crash was intoxicated. The child was taken to a hospital with injuries initially described as minor.

The driver believed to have caused the accident was also taken to the hospital with minor injuries. He was then booked into jail. He was charged with driving on a revoked license, careless and imprudent driving, suspicion of second-degree murder, second-degree assault; apparently, he also had an outstanding warrant. In addition to these criminal charges, the alleged intoxicated driver may end up facing civil claims due to his alleged negligence.

Although surviving families may be focused on the emotional aspects of a fatal car accidents, they will also have to deal with the financial side of things. Those who have lost loved ones due to intoxicated or reckless drivers have the right to file wrongful death claims in a Missouri civil court. A successfully litigated claim could result in much-needed compensation to help cover documented financial losses, including funeral and burial costs. A consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer can be helpful to go over the details and discuss what steps may be appropriate under the circumstances.

Source: columbiatribune.com, “Jefferson City man arrested after fatal accident on Business Loop 70“, Jan. 1, 2017