Legal proceedings are, if anything, lengthy. Sometimes it can take months of even years to reach a conclusion or decision, but these proceedings have a purpose. This gives everyone involved the chance to fully explore and understand what happened, so that the final decision can be done with complete information.
It might seem like unfair for these proceedings to go on for so long, but one man’s trial has finally reached a conclusion. This 47-year-old man is being sentenced to 20 years in prison for driving while intoxicated, resulting in the death of two or more people.
The incident that led to this sentence happened back in April. A family of three with a baby on the way were driving down Route M in the early afternoon. The other car on the road, which was driving on the opposite side, suddenly traveled into the wrong lane and struck the vehicle head on. The mother of the family, who was pregnant, was pronounced dead on the scene by MSHP. All three family members were taken to the hospital by EMS, and unfortunately, the unborn child passed away as well.
The man who has been sentenced to 20 years for this crime was heavily intoxicated at the scene, claiming that he had “four or five” drinks. When given a field sobriety test, he was heavily impaired. He also happens to have multiple DWI convictions in the past.
Nothing will be able to replace the lives lost in this accident, even if the perpetrator has been given punishment. The father and child now must bury not one but two family members. Not only are end-of-life preparations expensive, but the grief the family must feel is insurmountable. For people in situations like this, a wrongful death lawyer might be just the person you need to feel a sense of closure.
When Should I File a Wrongful Death Claim?
When a loved one is taken from you before their time, it can be incredibly difficult to cope. In Missouri, you have the legal grounds to file a wrongful death claim when one person’s actions lead to the death of another person. These actions are negligent and careless in nature. In many circumstances where the person could have filed a personal injury claim if they were alive, the family can instead file a wrongful death claim on their behalf.
According to the law, the people who have the right to file a wrongful death suit are first and foremost the parents, spouse, or children of the deceased. If none of those people exist, the right is then given to the siblings and children of those siblings.
The Law Office of Chris Miller Can Help You
When you’re filing a wrongful death case on behalf of a loved one, you should not face it alone. An attorney who specializes in wrongful death can be the advantage you need. In cases like this it is very typical for the other party to fight back. A lawyer can help you organize your evidence and speak on your behalf. If you’re looking to file, give us a call at the Law Office of Chris Miller first. Our team of legal experts can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.