It is sometimes said that motorcyclists put their lives on the line when they take to the busy Missouri roads. One of the unanticipated hazards that may be encountered by a biker is a drunk driver. A 23-year-old Missouri man recently lost his life in an accident that was allegedly caused by a drunk driver.

According to an accident report by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the accident occurred on Interstate 270 late on a recent Wednesday. The suspected drunk driver in an SUV reportedly struck a dividing wall on the median repeatedly before coming to a halt on the roadway. The motorcyclist, who was traveling in the same direction, failed to avoid a collision with the SUV that was blocking the traffic lane.

The resulting crash caused the motorcyclist to be thrown from his bike, resulting in fatal injuries. Despite wearing a helmet, he died at the scene of the accident. Upon investigation, officers determined that the driver of the SUV had a history of DWI convictions, and he was arrested and booked into the county jail. He was charged with felony driving while impaired and controlled substance possession; he was released pending charges.

The loved ones of the young biker who lost his life in this tragic motorcycle accident may need financial assistance in settling the high costs related to end-of-life arrangements. Regardless of whether the suspected drunk driver is convicted, the surviving family may pursue financial relief by filing a wrongful death claim in a Missouri civil court. By establishing that another party’s negligence caused or contributed to the death of the biker, a successful presentation in court may lead to a monetary judgment. In addition to funeral and burial expenses, other documented losses related to the fatal accident may also be sought.

Source: FOX 2 St. Louis, “Man with drunken driving history arrested after fatal crash“, Aug. 15, 2015