Last week on the I-12 at LA 21, an 18-wheeler started a chain reaction motor vehicle accident that resulted in the truck driver’s death. Three other individuals died in the tragic accident, and multiple people were injured. Ten vehicles were involved in the accident, according to the Louisiana State Police.
The truck driver failed to slow down as he approached traffic congestion on the interstate. The 18-wheeler, which was hauling avocados, collided with a vehicle which began the chain reaction accident. The tractor-trailer burst into flames along with three other vehicles.
In addition to the truck driver, two people in a Lexus died at the accident scene after being hit by the truck. Another vehicle, a Toyota 4-Runner, was also struck by the 18-wheeler. The driver of that vehicle was transported to the hospital where she died from her injuries. At the time of the news report, the accident was still under investigation by law enforcement officials.
Deadly Truck Accidents on Louisiana Roads
Sharing the roads with commercial trucks can be dangerous. However, we rely on commercial trucks to transport goods throughout the United States. Therefore, sharing the road with 18-wheelers is a necessity.
While you cannot predict what a truck driver may do, you can take steps to reduce your risk of being involved in a large truck accident. Some of the tips about driving near large trucks include:
- Allow more room when passing. Trucks cannot stop quickly. Therefore, when you are passing a large truck, allow more room between your vehicle and the truck before changing lanes in front of the truck.
- Stay out of blind spots. Commercial trucks have large blind spots. The blind spots are located on all four sides of the truck. Whenever possible, avoid driving in the truck’s blind spots to avoid an accident.
- Never pass a truck that is turning. A large truck needs a large turning radius. Do not attempt to pass a truck when the driver is negotiating a turn.
- Stay further back from the vehicle. Allow more distance between you and the commercial truck when following the truck. The driver cannot see you if you are too close to the back of the truck.
- Practice safe driving behaviors. In addition to driving cautiously near large trucks, you should also practice safe driving behaviors. Do not drive while distracted, fatigued, or drunk. Wear your seatbelt and obey all traffic laws.
After a truck accident, you should seek medical attention immediately. Also, we urge you to consult a truck accident attorney to protect your right to recover compensation for your property damage, medical bills, physical pain, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
New Orleans Truck Accident Attorneys
If you are injured in a commercial truck accident, it is important to contact our office as soon as possible. Evidence in a truck accident case can be destroyed or lost, if an accident investigation is not initiated very quickly.
For more information or a free consultation, call Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm. You can reach our office by calling (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889 to request your free appointment with a New Orleans truck accident lawyer.
Source: “18-wheeler transporting avocados in Louisiana triggered fiery pileup that left 4 dead, police say.” By Zoe Szathmary. Fox News.