Fatal accident blamed on racing, surviving driver charged

The “Fast and Furious” movie franchise has made street racing appear glamorous, which could prompt some drivers to risk partaking in such a dangerous activity on Louisiana’s streets and highways. These drivers risk both their lives and the lives of those who unknowingly end up sharing the roads with them. Anyone could become the victim of a fatal accident under these circumstances.

For instance, at the end of June, a 28-year-old man was traveling at excessive speeds on Louisiana Highway 500. As the vehicle approached U.S. Highway 84, it crossed into the oncoming lane of traffic. It then slammed into a bridge railing and careened into a bayou where is came to rest partially submerged in the water. The driver died from the injuries he suffered in the impact.

As the investigation continued, it became apparent that the accident was not merely caused by a lone driver who lost control of his vehicle. It turns out that he was racing with another vehicle, which was driven by a 24-year-old man. The accident happened on June 25. On Aug. 9, that man was arrested on suspicion of drag racing on a public road and hit and run.

The family members of the deceased driver retain the right to file a wrongful death claim against the other driver. If the court rules that his actions contributed to the death of their loved one, an award of damages could be made. Furthermore, if prosecutors secure a conviction in addition to a civil award being handed down, it might help discourage other drivers from engaging in dangerous activities that could easily lead to a fatal accident, as it did in this case.

Source: thetowntalk.com, “Olla man charged in fatal crash“, Melissa Gregory, Aug. 11, 2016