A family is in mourning after a fatal car crash left a Louisiana man dead on Feb. 22. The accident occurred very early in the morning just before 3 a.m. on US Highway 167. The man was apparently walking south on the highway when a 2008 Toyota truck struck him from behind. After the car accident, the victim was pronounced dead by the Lafayette Parish Coroner.

The police are investigating whether or not impairment was a factor in the car crash, though it was not clear from a news report if authorities suspected the driver or pedestrian. The car accident is still being investigated, and the reasons that the Toyota driver struck the man are unknown. Toxicology samples were taken and submitted to the state crime lab to be analyzed. The police issued a reminder to all pedestrians about Louisiana state law, which requires pedestrians to walk on a sidewalk -- if there is one -- or on the left shoulder going against the flow of traffic. They also recommend light or reflective clothing if walking during poor weather or at times when visibility for drivers might be low.

The family will likely wish to know the precise circumstances surrounding this fatal car accident and whether or not the Toyota driver was negligent in the death of their loved one. If the evidence warrants, they may have the right to pursue a legal claim for wrongful death. Wrongful death occurs when a fatality results from the negligent conduct of another party. While no amount of financial compensation will bring the victim back to life or diminish the emotional anguish of the family, a successful claim may help them with medical expenses and other damages incurred as a result of this crash.

Source: KATC, "Fatal ped accident on US Hwy 167," Lauren Wilson, Feb. 22, 2012