A serious accident in Audrain county on July 11th, 2010 resulted in the death of Lynn Fraker and the injury of 8 others. Charles Howdeshell was traveling along Highway 54, west of Route A.  when he struck another vehicle, driven by Douglas Hill and carrying Lynn Fraker , Jay Ballenger, and Karen Ballenger,  while attempting to pass them. Douglas Hill’s vehicle was then forced into the opposite lane and struck by a car driven by Robert Becker and carrying Alexander, Christopher, Denise and Mackenzie Becker. All had been wearing seat belts except Charles Howdeshell. All involved were injured except Mr. Howdeshell as well.

    My heart goes out to everyone involved in this accident and their families. I wish the injured parties a quick recovery.

    Two things are evident here. First, seatbelts save lives. Despite the fact that Mr. Howdeshell was unrestrained but not injured seatbelts are an important safety device and they save lives. Second, anytime multiple parties are involved things get complicated. Insurance companies will often point the finger at each other’s drivers when multiple parties are involved. This helps no one and puts people in an uncomfortable position between their insurance company and their road to recovery.

    This accident is very complicated—there are many vehicles and people involved, making the presence of a St. Louis car accident attorney practically required.