For residents of Lake Charles Louisiana, pedestrian accidents may feel as though they’re becoming an all too common occurrence. These types of accidents are particularly tragic because they almost always result in serious bodily harm or death. Just last week we highlighted the story of a 23-year-old man who died as a result of injuries sustained when he was struck by vehicle on Elliot Road. Unfortunately, the tragic auto accident trend continues. Louisiana State Police have confirmed that a 76-year-old man recently lost his life after being struck by a vehicle in Avoyelles Parish.
The fatal car crash took place when the elderly man was hit by a 68-year-old woman from Lake Charles. Purportedly, the woman was driving on Highway 115 when the Mansura man walked into the northbound lane at about 6:40 p.m.
News reports allude to the fact that the woman may have had difficulty seeing the man, because he was dressed in black attire. Police officers routinely make it a point to encourage pedestrians to wear bright clothing, and possibly carry a flashlight or light source, when walking in low visibility conditions.
The accident remains under investigation and results of toxicology tests are still pending. There is currently no indication what criminal charges, if any, the driver may face for her part in the auto accident. It remains unclear as to whether she was distracted or impaired in some way at the time of the incident. Undoubtedly, the friends and loved ones of the man who lost his life in the fatal crash are grieving. Depending upon the outcome of the investigation, the victim’s family may seek more information concerning their rights and options within the parameters of the legal system.
Pedestrian Killed in Fatal Accident Near Lake Charles
Under normal circumstances, walking is considered a safe and relatively fear-free means of transportation. Unfortunately though, what should be a common, simple or everyday occurrence can result in unforeseen tragedy. Case in point, a 23-year-old Louisiana man was killed in a fatal accident last week after being hit by a vehicle near Lake Charles.
The young man was struck at approximately 4 a.m. while strolling northbound on Elliot Road. Investigators have identified the man, and did confirm that he was struck by a vehicle headed southbound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The fatal accident remains under investigation by authorities. However, a spokesperson for the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office told reporters that impairment resulting from the use of drugs or alcohol did not appear to be a factor in the man’s death. Nonetheless, as a part of the accident investigation, toxicology tests will be performed on both the crash victim and the driver of the vehicle that struck him.
There is currently no information available on the legal ramifications, if any, the driver of the passing vehicle may face. If the driver is found to be at fault in the collision, he or she could face serious charges. However, regardless of the investigative outcome, the victim’s loved ones will likely be left with more questions than answers. Family members may choose to seek their own answers — and possibly reparation for their loss — through avenues available to them under the umbrella of the law. In cases like this, monetary damages are sometimes sought despite no criminal conviction.
Fatal Accident on I-10 Kills 5 Near New Orleans
A tragic accident on Interstate 10 left five people dead early this morning. The fatal accident happened after a driver was reportedly traveling the wrong way on the interstate near LaPlace, Louisiana. The wrong-way driver collided with another vehicle that was carrying four occupants, killing everyone inside. The wrong-way driver also died in the collision.
Many details regarding the circumstances of the tragedy were unavailable in a news report, including the identity of the wrong-way driver. However, police are presumably investigating the accident and will hopefully release an accident report soon so as to allow the families of the victims some understanding of what occurred. Based on early reports, troopers became aware of the wrong-way driver only moments before the accident happened.
Additionally, at least two others received minor injuries as a result of the accident. An 18-wheeler sideswiped the wreck, causing another vehicle to crash into it. Fortunately, they are expected to recover from their injuries.
In cases such as these, little can be done to replace the life of a loved one. However, through a wrongful death lawsuit, the families may be able to collect monetary compensation to cover funeral expenses along with any medical expenses and other damages. A wrongful death refers to a fatality caused by the negligent or willful conduct of another, and may apply to the heartrending nature of this fatal accident. One can only hope that the families of these five car accident victims find peace eventually as they struggle with their sudden loss.