Highway driving can be stressful. A driver’s attention diverted from the road for even a brief moment may lead to tragic consequences. When highway speeds exceed 70 mph, the slightest contact with another vehicle can cause a driver to lose control of a vehicle, resulting in a personal injury accident. A recent accident in Louisiana demonstrates this fact and leaves a community grieving.
A 66-year-old man was traveling east in the middle lane of a three-lane stretch of interstate. A second vehicle in the left lane overtook the first vehicle. However, before the second vehicle could pass, the driver of the first vehicle inexplicably crossed into the left lane. His car struck the front of the passing vehicle, causing both cars to leave the roadway. They traveled across the grassy median into the westbound traffic where the first vehicle struck a third car.
The drivers of the first and third vehicles received medical treatment for moderate injuries. The second driver was not injured, but voluntarily provided a breath sample to police, who determined the 26-year-old man was not impaired. Unfortunately, the 64-year-old passenger in the first car suffered catastrophic injuries and died as a result of the crash.
Although the investigation is still ongoing and Louisiana police have yet to analyze blood samples taken from the other drivers, there are many factors to consider when a personal injury accident results in the loss of life. If the driver of a vehicle is determined to have acted with negligence or recklessness because of distraction, impairment or other factors, the family of an injured or deceased passenger has the right to pursue legal action against the driver. A skilled attorney can provide assistance in the appropriate course of action.