A single-vehicle accident recently occurred on a Missouri roadway. A 21-year-old driver passed over a railroad crossing moments before losing control of his steering. His vehicle careened down a nearby embankment and crashed.
There were numerous passengers in the car at the time. At least two of them were juveniles, ages 17 and 12. They and two other occupants suffered serious injuries and were transported to a local hospital for emergency care. The driver was killed.
Restitution for recovering victims
It is critically important to closely monitor anyone who has been in a car accident. In the hours, days and weeks following an incident, a victim’s condition may improve but could just as easily take a sudden turn for the worse. If someone is listed in serious condition, his or her life may be at risk.
Missouri law allows a recovering victim (or parent or legal guardian of a juvenile) to seek compensation for damages in civil court. When a court rules in favor of a plaintiff, the award can be used to cover medical bills and other documented items of damage associated with a car accident. If the person who caused the accident did not survive, a claim may be filed against his or her estate. This type of litigation is complex and often traumatic, which is why it is best to seek support from an experienced attorney before heading into proceedings.