Deadly Missouri New Year’s Eve Crash Report

The Missouri Highway Patrol Reports Five Fatalities

During the 2016 New Year holiday counting period, Missouri reported a tragic five road crash fatalities.

Troopers investigated 235 traffic crashes which included 59 injuries and all five of the fatalities. In addition, troopers made 109 arrests for driving while intoxicated during the 78-hour counting period.

Saturday, January 2, 2016

A double fatality crash occurred on Calvey Creeek Road in Jefferson County, Missouri, however, little more information was provided.

Sunday, January 3, 2016- Two Head-On Fatal Crashes

Three fatalities occurred including an 88 year-old man of Forsyth died when a second vehicle crossed the center line and struck his vehicle head-on. The crash occurred in Taney County on U.S. Highway 160 west of Forsyth, Missouri. It was reported that both drivers were wearing their seat belts and the driver of the car that crossed the center line was reported as having minor injuries.

A 32 year-old woman of Summersville, Missouri died when the vehicle she was driving struck another vehicle head-on in Phelps County on U.S. Highway 63 south of Missouri Highway W. It was reported that she was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash and the driver of the other vehicle, a Freightliner was wearing a seat belt and he was not injured.

A 43 year-old St. James, Missouri man died when the vehicle he was driving failed to negotiate a curve, traveled off the roadway and struck two road signs, overturned several times and struck a tree before coming to rest on its wheels. The crash occurred in Phelps county on U.S. Highway 68 north of Salem, Missouri. According to reports, the victim was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from the vehicle. A passenger in the vehicle was wearing a seat belt and was reported as sustaining serious injuries.

Most Common Cause of Motor Vehicle Crashes

Most experts agree that inattentiveness in general is the leading cause of the majority of motor vehicle crashes. However, without further details, it would be impossible to say just what caused each of Missouri fatal crashes over the New Year’s Eve described above.

Inattentiveness includes many behaviors involving multi-tasking activities while one is behind the wheel. Using a hand-held communication device is a common type of inattentive driving but also can include just failing to pay attention.

If Involved in a Motor Vehicle Crash

Across the state, there were 235 non-fatal crashes and in many of them, there were injuries. If involved in a motor vehicle crash, it is critical that you seek medial attention as soon as possible. Yes, going to the doctor over the holidays is unpleasant, but failing to get medial attention is a huge mistake. There are two reasons you should seek medical attention right away. One and the most important—medical treatment is almost always required in order for an injured person to improve. Our first concern when it comes to our clients is that they get the treatment they need and get better. Second, seeking medical treatment documents your injuries. Obviously, if you are not injured, then you do not need medical treatment and subsequently, if not injured then you probably do not need an attorney.

If you have had a motor vehicle crash, you probably have questions of what to do and what Not to do after a car accident in Missouri.

Call locally 1.314.276.1681 or toll free 1.800.685.3302 for a free, confidential consultation.