A motorcyclist was killed recently while traveling on a Louisiana road in Calcasieu Parish, west of Lafayette. The man was struck head-on by another vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. The driver, who received only minor injuries, is now facing charges of improper passing in connection with the motorcycle accident.

The tragic accident happened in the early morning hours of Sunday, March 25. An 18-wheeler traveling eastbound had come to a stop at a railroad crossing, which is required by law, and when the truck began to accelerate from the crossing, two vehicles attempted to pass it in the westbound lane. The first vehicle managed to do so successfully. However, the driver of the second vehicle collided head-on with a 57-year-old motorcyclist traveling westbound.

The impact of the crash tragically killed the motorcyclist at the scene of the accident. Police are now conducting an investigation into the incident, and have already filed the charge of improper passing against the driver. Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the driver may face more charges.

As mentioned in a press release issued by the Louisiana State Police, about 3/4 of all motorcycle accidents involve a second vehicle. That is why it is so important for drivers to pay attention to the road and to the safety of those around them. Here, the driver may not have been driving with a due regard to the safety of others, and he may have been negligent in causing the motorcycle accident. If this is the case, then the family of the motorcyclist may well consider filing a civil suit in a Louisiana court to hold the man accountable for his actions.

Source: KPLC 7 News, "Westlake man dies in motorcycle crash," Kristian Claus, March 25, 2012