When a vehicle flips, its occupants are often thrown around the cabin — even if they are wearing seat belts. Drivers and passengers alike are also at risk of being thrown out of the vehicle during rollover accidents. It most likely does not surprise Missouri readers that in either case, the potential for serious or fatal injuries is high.
For example, a crash recently took place on the northbound side of Interstate 55 at approximately 12:30 a.m. on a Thursday. A car that was traveling much faster than the posted speed limit slammed into a pickup truck. The impact sent the pickup rolling.
During the crash, the 31-year-old driver of the pickup was thrown out of his vehicle. He suffered serious injuries for which he was transported to a nearby hospital. The car was occupied by the driver and his passenger.
The 41-year-old passenger was also seriously injured. The current conditions of these men is not known. The Missouri State Police did not indicate whether the 27-year-old driver of the car suffered any injuries, nor was there any information regarding what charges, if any, could be filed in connection with the accident.
Even if no criminal charges are filed, the pickup truck driver and the passenger retain the right to file personal injury claims against the car driver. It will be necessary to gather as much evidence as possible that establishes that his negligence caused the accident and their injuries. If successful, the court could consider awarding damages similar to those seen in other rollover accidents. Any monetary restitution received could help with expenses such as medical bills, lost wages and more.
Source: stltoday.com, “Two injured in accident on Interstate 55 south of Festus“, March 24, 2016
