Tragic Drunk Driving Accident on Christmas Eve Kills Young Mother, Infant Son
According to KATC, a fiery collision on Christmas Eve resulted in two fatalities. The crash happened on LA 1065 shortly before 9 p.m.
After gathering evidence at the scene and talking to eyewitnesses, police determined that a 36-year-old woman driving a Nissan Altima was traveling north on LA 1065 when she was involved in a collision and allegedly fled the scene. Authorities claim the woman continued on LA 1065.
Meanwhile, a 24-year-old man was driving a Dodge Stratus on LA 1065 with his 19-year-old fiancée and 7-month-old son in the car. After fleeing the scene of the first crash, the woman in the Nissan approached the Dodge at a high rate of speed and rear-ended it.
The force and location of the impact ruptured the Dodge’s gas tank, causing flames to engulf both vehicles. The woman in the Nissan sustained minor injuries but was able to exit her car.
Witnesses claim they removed the man and woman from the Dodge but were unable to reach the infant because of the fire. A witness attempted CPR on the woman.
Responders from the Tangipahoa Parish Fire Department extinguished the fires in both vehicles. Tragically, the Tangipahoa Parish Coroner’s Office pronounced both the woman and her infant dead at the scene.
If you were involved in a car accident with a reckless driver and you sustained debilitating injuries or lost a loved one as a result, turn to Laborde Earles Law Firm. A compassionate injury attorney in Lafayette will review the details of the crash to help you determine the most strategic way to proceed.
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. Call 800-522-6733 to schedule a free case evaluation.
Toxicology Report Reveals Impairment Played a Role in the Crash
Responders transported both drivers involved in the collision to North Oaks Health System, where they underwent blood tests for toxicological analysis. The report revealed that the woman who had been driving the Nissan was impaired at the time of the accident.
After she was released from the hospital, police arrested her and booked her into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail. According to The Advocate, she is facing charges for two counts of vehicular homicide, as well as for hit-and-run and careless operation.
Sadly, drunk driving accidents are common around the holidays. Many people are more likely to indulge and have a few cocktails when they are in the company of friends and loved ones; however, those who fail to plan ahead by arranging for transportation are not only putting themselves at risk but also everyone around them, as the tragic collision above illustrates.
If you sustained debilitating injuries in a drunk driving accident, a Lafayette injury lawyer from Laborde Earles Law Firm will guide you through every stage of the claims process. Your attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and negotiate with the opposing party on your behalf so you can focus on your health. Call 800-522-6733 to schedule a free consultation.