Two young students in Rolla died in a single car crash late last week.  Joshua Roach, who was a senior at Missouri University of Science & Technology, died late Monday.  Roach was only 23 years old.  Derek Medlock was actually DOA at the scene, as reported by University Police and The Kansas City Star.  Authorities have not been able to determine who, either Roach or Medlock, was driving at the time that their car lost control and left the roadway.  The crash occurred at approximately 12:30 am on Friday.

The surviving spouse, relatives and linear decedents of a fatal injury victim may be able to file a Wrongful Death Claim against guilty parties.  In this situation, the authorities are still attempting to determine who was the driver.  If that remains undetermined, it is possible that the survivors may have a claim against the decedent's own car insurance policy.  Wrongful Death claims in Missoui are governed my the Missouri Wrongful Death Statute, found at RSMO Section 537.080 (2000). 

According to the Missouri Wrongful Death Statute, there are three priorities of classes of potential persons that can recover on a wrongful death claim. The first class or tier is the spouse, children and parents of the decedent.  The second is siblings and their decedents.  The final tier encompass the plaintiff ad litem. 

If you need help understanding the Missouri Wrongful Death Statute and how it applies in your potential claim, call the attorneys at Schultz Legal Group for an immediate consultation.  St. Louis Wrongful Death Lawyer Stephen Schultz can be reached at (314) 448-0934, or by email.