Police Suspect Man Who Caused Fatal Crash on LA 107 Was Impaired

KATC reports on a fatal collision that happened just north of Marksville on LA Hwy 107. According to authorities, the collision occurred between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. when a vehicle travelling on LA 107 South crossed the centerline and hit another vehicle.

Both the driver and the passenger of the southbound vehicle sustained minor injuries. They were transported to Rapides Regional Trauma Center for treatment. Authorities suspect that the driver was impaired at the time of the collision. The driver of the second vehicle, Nicholas M. Stroud, 22, died in the accident.

Tragedies like this are far too common in the state of Louisiana. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 3,046 people died in our state died in alcohol-related wrecks between 2003 and 2012. Approximately 2.5 percent of adults who participated in a CDC survey admitted that they had driven after consuming too much alcohol within the 30 days prior to the survey. This was much higher than the national average – 1.9 percent.

If you or someone you love was injured or died in a crash with a drunk driver, contact Laborde Earles Law Firm. A car accident lawyer will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, non-economic damages, and punitive damages.

Our attorneys have a reputation for tough litigation and a strategy for winning substantial settlements and verdicts. Call 800-522-6733 today to schedule a free consultation with an injury attorney in Marksville.

How to Identify Drunk Drivers

Most drivers know the dangers of getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol, yet thousands of people make a habit out of driving under the influence. In fact, according to the CDC, alcohol contributes to nearly one-third of all traffic deaths in the United States.

Although some accidents are unavoidable, you can reduce your risk of getting in a drunk-driving crash by learning how to identify and avoid intoxicated motorists. Keep your distance from any driver who shows one or more of the following signs of inebriation:

1. Swerving;
2. Drifting onto the shoulder;
3. Abnormal braking patterns;
4. Stopping well before or after a stop line;
5. Almost hitting the curb;
6. Forgetting to turn on the headlights at night;
7. Using the wrong turn signal or no turn signal at all;
8. Tailgating; or
9. Driving much slower or faster than the speed limit.

If you were injured by a drunk, distracted, or negligent motorist in Louisiana, contact Laborde Earles Law Firm. We have recovered more than $200 million for our clients, and we will help you fight for the maximum payout.

Call 800-522-6733 to schedule a free initial consultation with a car accident lawyer in Marksville.