When there is an auto accident in Missouri, the circumstances are critical to determining the viability of a legal filing for compensation. This is especially true when there are catastrophic injuries and a fatality. For example, if a driver was under the influence, was driving recklessly, or was fleeing another accident, then it may be easier for a victim to impose liability.

The family of a recent car accident may be confronting this situation now, as a 20-year-old man is now dealing with charges related to a fatal head-on crash and fleeing the scene. According to the investigation, the man hit a vehicle driven by a 37-year-old woman, killing her. He is believed to have been fleeing a separate accident in which more than $4,000 in damage was caused. That raises the charges to a felony. He was apparently trying to pass a vehicle in a zone where passing is prohibited and thereafter hit the woman’s vehicle.

It is always unfortunate when a person who was simply minding his or her own business is injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident caused by the negligent actions of another. When injuries are suffered there will likely be medical expenses related to necessary treatment, a very real possibility of disability, and emotional and financial trauma. When there is a fatality, a slew of other concerns including funeral costs, lost companionship, and lost support can arise. Simply because the driver of the other vehicle may have been arrested does not automatically mean that a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit will succeed. This is why having a lawyer’s advice from the start is oftentimes imperative.

As the criminal case against the man mentioned above is built and the investigation continues, the victim’s family must consider whether a wrongful death lawsuit is justified. They should think about contacting a law firm that specializes in helping people who have been hurt or lost loved ones in motor vehicle accidents to better determine the strength of their case.