Drivers in Missouri face serious disadvantages on the road everyday. No matter how safe a person drives, if there is someone driving negligently or impaired, car accidents can happen — turning innocent people into victims. When people cause car accidents, and are found at fault, they can end up in a court room facing hefty fines and extensive jail times. This has just been the case for a man who is to show up in court soon for the death of two of his friends.

The accident took place last June, and was an apparent result of drunk driving. Two 24-year-olds, a 25-year-old and the 27-year-old driver were all in the vehicle at the time of the car accident. Reports claim that the man apparently lost control of his vehicle as a result of speeding around a curve in the roadway. Investigators of the crash said the man was traveling around 70 mph in a 35-mph zone.

The man’s passengers were thrown from the vehicle, adding to the chaos of the scene. Two of the victims were pronounced dead on the scene, and one of them was able to be taken to the hospital where he was treated for his injuries, and thankfully survived. The driver survived with little injury to himself.

Police officials who attended the crime scene stated the man failed sobriety tests and refused to take a breathalyzer. He was arrested for driving while intoxicated. After he was arrested, the police obtained a warrant to receive a blood sample to prove this. According to Missouri statutes, the man is now facing a class B felony for the charges of second-degree murder and two counts of involuntary manslaughter. He is due in court this December, and is looking at serving a sentence of 5 to 15 years in prison.

The victims’ families will mourn this loss forever. They may benefit from knowing that they do have legal options, though. They can file a claim in the Missouri court for financial restitution following the death of their loved ones. Financial restitution they could receive would help with any unexpected costs as a result of car accidents such as this. Money can never replace these men, but it can ease the financial burdens.

Source: The Joplin Globe, Webb City man to stand trial in fatal car crash, No Author, Nov. 13, 2013