There have been several recent Missouri crashes that have resulted in fatalities or injuries to drivers and motorcyclists.
Drivers of passenger vehicles are less likely to be injured in an accident with a motorcycle because they are more protected by their vehicles. Helmets are the only protection motorcyclists have between them and the road. Some recent accidents in Missouri show the need for drivers and motorcyclists to exercise great caution on the road.
In Jefferson County a Missouri man died in September after crashing his Harley Davidson into a median cable that separated lanes on Interstate 55. The 51-year-old man, of Festus, was traveling along Interstate 55, heading northbound, when he suddenly drove off the left side of the road and crashed through the barrier. Troopers from the Missouri Highway patrol say that after the accident the man was taken to Mercy Hospital but then transferred to Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. He passed away at the hospital around 9:30 a.m.
Another accident on a Saturday afternoon in September left a Paducah man in critical condition.
The 48-year-old was on his Harley Davidson motorcycle, heading northbound. As he was driving around a bend in the road, he lost control of the bike, veering left. He was thrown from the bike, unable to regain control. The accident happened at 3:15 p.m. near the 400 block of Said Street. The man was taken to the local hospital for treatment of his injuries. He was reported to be in critical condition.
The man was reportedly was not wearing a helmet when he crashed his bike. Deputies involved in the investigation say that several eyewitnesses reported that he was also speeding. Additionally, deputies believe that alcohol was also a contributing factor in the crash.
Police issued the man citations for driving on a DUI suspended license, and operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C.
Behaving recklessly, speeding, drinking and driving, or engaging in other negligent behavior on a motorcycle is even more dangerous than it is with a car or other passenger vehicle. While the risk of accidents and death is present anytime someone takes unnecessary risks, because they have very little protection motorcyclists must be even more cautious and observant than other drivers. At the same time, drivers have a responsibility to be aware of motorcyclists, and maintain a safe distance.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car or motorcycle accident, contact The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. to discuss your legal options. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and more.