In some single-vehicle car accidents in Missouri, those who suffer the worst injuries are passengers. Drivers may be held accountable for losses sustained by passengers in car accidents. Many civil lawsuits arise from serious injuries suffered by passengers of negligent drivers.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that one such accident occurred in Morgan County on a recent Wednesday night. According to a crash report, the accident involved a single vehicle operated by a 21-year-old man. While southbound on a local roadway, the driver veered off the road. After hitting an embankment, the car rolled over. The reason for going off the roadway is unknown.

It was reported that the driver suffered moderate injuries, but his 28-year-old passenger’s injuries were classified as serious. Both men were transported to a Sedalia hospital by private vehicle, and the passenger was later transferred to University Hospital in Columbia. The report also indicated that both men failed to wear their seat belts.

The severity of the serious injuries suffered by the passenger will likely determine the extent of the medical care that will be required. Long-term care may affect the victim’s ability to work, and along with medical expenses, the financial consequences can be significant. However, he retains the right to pursue financial relief by filing a personal injury lawsuit in a Missouri civil court. Upon proving negligence, the driver may be held financially accountable for the accident. The court will consider all documented claims for financial losses sustained before entering a monetary judgment.

Source: lakenewsonline.com, “Versailles man seriously injured in crash in southern Morgan County Wednesday evening“, Dec. 24, 2015