Car accidents happen every day all across the United States. While automobile accidents do not always result in fatal or even serious injuries, every time a driver ignores their duty and behaves negligently they risk devastating consequences. Furthermore, when a driver's negligence does result in injuries, he or she can be held accountable. The following is for Edwardsville residents that have either lost a loved one or been injured in a car accident.

According to recent reports, a car crash that took place in neighboring Missouri on Friday, February 1 left three people dead. The accident took place when the driver of a Ford Focus, driven by a 25-year-old man, attempted to pass another vehicle in an area where passing is prohibited by law. The crash occurred when the Focus collided with a Volkswagen Jetta driven by a 46-year-old St. Louis woman. Both drivers died, as did a 41-year-old passenger who had been riding in the Jetta.

Investigators are currently reconstructing the fatal accident, as well as conducting a thorough review of the incident. Whenever there is a breach of a legal duty there is an assumption that the driver breaking the law bears fault for the accident. For example, if a driver hits another driver while running a red light or making a left turn, the fact that the driver failed to abide by the law can be convincing evidence that they were negligent.

Whenever someone is injured in an automobile accident it is important to contact the police immediately. The police will prepare a report that will include any violations of law that may have contributed to the accident. If possible, it is also helpful to gather the names of any witnesses, although the police should perform this task as well. Each of these actions can be a major step towards the success of future litigation or negotiations, helping recover damages for injuries or property damage incurred by an accident.

Source: KSDK, "Head-on crash in Ladue leaves three dead," Jeanie Smith, February 2, 2013