Purdy, MO – Two Women Killed in Hydroplaning Crash on State Hwy 37

Purdy, MO (April 11, 2026) – Two women died on Friday, April 10, after an SUV hydroplaned on State Highway 37, about a half mile south of Purdy.

According to officials, a northbound SUV crossed into the southbound lane after losing traction. Its passenger side struck the front of a second SUV traveling southbound. The crash involved four occupants total.

The driver of the first SUV, a 65-year-old woman from Shell Knob, died at the scene. Her passenger, a 41-year-old woman from Exeter, also died at the scene.

The driver of the second SUV, a 46-year-old woman from Noblesville, Indiana, and her passenger, a 40-year-old woman from Columbia, suffered serious injuries. Paramedics treated them at the scene and transported them to a nearby hospital.

Authorities continue to investigate the crash.

We extend our sincere condolences to the families of the two women who lost their lives. We also wish the injured individuals a full and swift recovery.

Compensation Available After a Fatal Crash in Missouri

When a loved one dies in a crash, Missouri law may allow surviving family members to pursue compensation. Recoverable losses can include medical costs, funeral expenses, lost income, and non-economic damages. Each category addresses a distinct aspect of what the family has lost.

Medical costs incurred between the moment of impact and the time of death may be recoverable. Emergency transport, hospital treatment, and any care provided before passing can all factor into a claim. Families should gather and preserve all related medical records.

Funeral and burial expenses often place an immediate financial burden on a household. Missouri wrongful death law allows families to seek reimbursement for these costs. This includes services, cremation or burial, and related arrangements.

The deceased may have been a primary earner or regular financial contributor to the household. Families can seek damages for the income and support that person would have provided over their lifetime. Courts consider age, occupation, and earning history when calculating these figures.

Beyond financial loss, families also lose the daily presence, guidance, and companionship of the person they loved. Missouri recognizes non-economic losses like grief, loss of consortium, and emotional absence. These damages remain a recognized part of wrongful death claims.

Insurance companies often respond to fatal crash claims with delays, low offers, or disputes over liability. Families without legal help may accept settlements that fall short of actual losses. Knowing your options early can make a meaningful difference.

A wrongful death lawyer can investigate the crash, determine liability, and manage communication with insurers on your behalf. Missouri wrongful death law has specific filing deadlines, and missing them can forfeit a claim. Legal guidance helps you focus on recovery while a professional handles the process.

If you lost a loved one in a fatal crash in Missouri, we can help you understand your legal options. At Dunk Law Firm, we have experience handling fatal crash cases across Missouri.

You can speak with our team about your situation and learn what steps may apply to your case. To learn more about how we can assist you, you can contact Dunk Law Firm at (414) 209-4398.

Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. We have not independently verified all details of the incident. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Dunk Law Firm so we can promptly review and correct the content for accuracy and reliability.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship nor constitute a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention and consult a qualified attorney. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the actual scene or parties involved in the incident.