Motorcycle rider Roger Whisenant was killed in a serious fatal motorcycle crash when a truck struck him from behind and fled the scene of the crime immediately thereafter.  Curtis Henderson was charged with second-degree murder and driving while on a suspended license for the fatal motorcycle crash that he caused on yesterday.  The police department has taken statements from witnesses that portray Henderson as "trying to beat traffic" just immediately prior to impact with Whisenant's motorcycle. 

A criminal background check on Henderson resulted in hits for three previous convictions resulting from driving under the influence of alcohol.  To be convicted for DUI in Missouri, a driver must have a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of .08 or higher. Three convictions in the state of Missouri typically results in a 10 year suspension of your drivers license, without opportunity even for a hardship license.

Surviving victims of fatal motorcycle accidents have a right of recovery.  The Missouri wrongful death statute allows certain classes of surviving family members to file a wrongful death claim in Missouri courts following the death of a loved one.  Take note however, if criminal charges are pending, the civil wrongful death claim may be temporarily interrupted by the fact that defendant has a 5th amendment right to remain silent to avoid self-incrimination in the civil case.  To find out more about how this works, contact a competent Missouri Wrongful Death Lawyer who understands how to proceed with a death claim during the criminal proceedings.  Don't be victimized twice.