A Louisiana man has died after a recent head-on car accident. Toxicology tests have been ordered on the other driver, but authorities have not speculated whether any type of impairment contributed to the crash. As of now, there have been no criminal charges filed, but that could change once the car accident investigation is completed.

The driver thought responsible was traveling northbound in a Ford Explorer when he reportedly veered toward the right side of the road. The driver over-corrected the SUV, causing it to cross into oncoming traffic. The Explorer slammed directly into the front of the victim's Toyota pickup truck.

The victim was not wearing a safety restraint and succumbed to the injuries he sustained in the crash. Once toxicology tests and the results of the accident investigation are received, it could open the door for the family to seek civil action from the victim's family. However, not having the information does not preclude them from filing a lawsuit, but any information received that documents negligence could work in their favor if they seek legal action against the driver of the Explorer.

Although the driver may face criminal charges, it will not prevent the family from also seeking restitution in the form of monetary damages in a Louisiana civil court. A wrongful death lawsuit can sometimes act as an additional layer of justice against the person who took away a loved one. When negligence has caused or contributed to a car accident fatality, criminal charges may not be enough for a family who has lost so much. A successful civil case could provide some solace to the grieving family and result in a monetary judgment for damages permissible under our laws against the driver responsible.

Source: BatonRougeToday.com, "Denham Springs Man Killed in Early Morning Crash on Hwy 447," Jan. 16, 2013