One motorcyclist suffered life–threatening injuries, another serious injuries and another moderate injuries after three separate accidents in Louisiana occurred within hours of each other. Louisiana State police said that last year, 75 people lost their lives in more than 2,100 motorcycle accidents in the state.
The first motorcycle accident occurred in Prairieville on US 61 and involved a 2013 Dodge Avenger and a 2006 Suzuki. The 25—year—old driver of the Suzuki was seriously injured when the 45—year—old driver of the Avenger turned in front of the motorcycle. Investigators do not believe alcohol or drugs played a role in the accident, but they did report that the motorcyclist may have been speeding. It is not known if either driver was cited or if the driver of the Avenger was injured.
The second accident occurred in Dutchtown on LA 74. A 49—year—old motorcyclist was moderately injured when a 2002 Chrysler minivan turned in front of his 1999 Yamaha. The motorcycle hit the minivan, but the driver of the minivan then drove off. Law enforcement officers located the hit—and—run vehicle later the same day, but not the driver.
The third accident occurred near Pride on LA 409 and involved a 56—year—old motorcyclist on a 2008 Harley Davidson. State police report the man drove off a curve and hit a railing on a bridge. The man suffered life-threatening injuries and police report that speed and impairment were likely factors in the accident.
The driver of the second accident could face criminal charges for leaving the scene of an accident as well as other charges. In addition, the driver and owner of the minivan could face a civil suit for injuries the motorcyclist suffered, pain and suffering, and damages to the motorcycle. An attorney who specializes in motorcycle accidents can advise the victim how to proceed once the driver and owner of the minivan are identified.
Source: wafb.com, “3 motorcyclists injured in 3 separate crashes” Joshua Auzeene, Apr. 22, 2013
