Distracted Driving May Have Caused Fatal Accident in Louisiana

Louisiana drivers know it is important to pay attention to the road, their surroundings and other vehicles as they drive. However, it is sometimes easy to become distracted by any number of things. Cell phones, eating and other activities that divert a driver’s attention from the road are frequently cited as factors in vehicle collisions. This can easily become dangerous and cause a serious or fatal accident.
Louisiana State Police troopers say that a 19-year-old driver was distracted as he heading westbound on Highway 16. Two motorcycles were coming toward him in the eastbound lane. Whatever it was that distracted the driver of the car caused him to drift into the opposing lane and slammed into the motorcycles head-on.
Both of the riders were wearing D.O.T. approved helmets, but that did not save one of the riders. The 29-year-old man suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. The other rider, a 51-year-old man, suffered moderate injuries for which he received treatment at an area hospital. His current condition is unknown.
The driver of the car suffered minor injuries. Alcohol and drugs are not believed to be causal factors in this fatal accident, but toxicology samples were taken as per standard procedure. Charges are pending against the young man as troopers conduct their investigation. The family of the deceased motorcycle rider and the injured rider may file wrongful death and personal injury claims, respectively, against him as well. Any monetary award received as a result of a successfully presented claim may be used to defray the costs associated with this tragedy.