1 Dead, 2 Children Injured in Rear-End Crash on U.S. 165

One woman was killed and two children were injured when their vehicle was rear-ended by a pickup truck on U.S. 165. According to NOLA, the collision occurred at around 12:10 p.m. when Rosa Ramirez, 40, slowed down to make a left turn. Her 2001 Pontiac Grand Am was rear-ended by a 2006 Chevrolet pickup driven by Jessie White, 31.

Although Ramirez was properly restrained, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The two children in her vehicle, who were also properly restrained, suffered minor injuries. White was not injured and was cited for careless operation of a motor-vehicle.

This collision is a tragic reminder that seatbelts cannot prevent all injuries in the event of an accident; however, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, they are still one of the most effective safety devices in your vehicle. When properly fastened, a seatbelt will reduce your risk of being seriously injured or dying in an accident by about half.

If you were hurt or lost a loved one in a crash with a negligent driver, turn to Laborde Earles Law Firm. An Alexandria injury lawyer will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a personal injury claim.

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and non-economic damages. Call 800-522-6733 to schedule a free initial consultation.

How Effective Are Seatbelts?

As previously mentioned, data from the CDC shows that wearing a seatbelt will greatly improve your chances of surviving a car accident. Researchers estimate that seatbelts saved 14,000 lives in 2015.

Which Age Group Is Least Likely to Buckle Up?

According to the CDC, young drivers between the ages 18 and 24 have the lowest rates of seatbelt use. They also have a higher rate of crash-related non-fatal injuries than older age groups.

Failing to Wear a Seatbelt Is a Primary Offense in Louisiana

Seatbelt laws vary among states. In some states, seatbelt violations are a secondary offense, meaning that officers cannot stop a driver for failing to wear a seatbelt. In the state of Louisiana, though, failing to wear a seatbelt is now a primary offense, so drivers can be pulled over if an officer has a clear and unobstructed view of a driver or passenger not wearing a seatbelt. The fine is $25 for a first offense and $50 for a subsequent offense.

According to CDC research, making seatbelt violations a primary offense has proven to be effective for increasing the number of drivers and passengers who buckle up.

Unfortunately, seatbelts cannot prevent all accident injuries. If you were hurt or lost a loved one in a crash that another driver caused, turn to Laborde Earles Law Firm.

Call 800-522-6733 today to schedule a free initial consultation with an accident attorney in Alexandria. You can learn more about car accident claims in Louisiana by visiting the USAttorneys website.