Louisiana teenager suffers catastrophic injuries in car crash

Every day, people say goodbye to loved ones, not realizing it will be the last time they will ever see them. Sadly, this happens to thousands of people each year around the country. For the family of one Louisiana teen, that day came when he suffered catastrophic injuries in a car crash.

The single car accident occurred in the early morning hours of March 20. According to Calcasieu Parish sheriff’s deputies, the driver of an SUV lost control on a curve. Thereafter, the vehicle careened off the road and slammed into a tree.

There were three people in the SUV at the time of the crash. The driver and passenger in the backseat suffered injuries that ranged from moderate to serious. At last report, they were stable and being treated at an area hospital. The 17-year-old teen, who was front seat passenger, suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene.

Whether police have any indication as to the cause of the crash is not yet known. The investigation, which is being conducted by the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Department, was ongoing at last report. Authorities may be awaiting the completion of that investigation to make a determination whether to file charges.

Even if criminal charges are not filed, the family of the teen who suffered catastrophic injuries has the right under Louisiana law to file a wrongful death claim against the driver. Further, the other passenger in the SUV may file a personal injury claim as well. If the parties to these civil actions prove the driver was negligent, the court may award damages that could help defray the costs incurred as a result of this tragedy.

Source: therepublic.com, Calcasieu Parish sheriff’s deputies investigate fatal crash in Vinton, No author, March 20, 2014