In the aftermath of a crash, it can be difficult to find witnesses who either saw what happened or know someone who was involved. When investigators need information from the public, they often keep as many of the details as possible regarding the incident out of the media in order to be sure that any tips they receive are probative. Louisiana police often do not want to have to take the time to sift through information that is not going to find them the answers they, and the victims and their families, need in the aftermath of a car accident.
This could be why not much information had been released yet regarding a hit-and-run accident in which a bicycle rider was killed. The call came into police shortly prior to 2 a.m. on a recent Wednesday. When they arrived at the scene, they discovered the victim’s body. It appeared that he had been struck not only one time, but two times.
The evidence at the scene suggests that the bicyclist was struck from behind first, and then another vehicle struck him. Neither driver remained at the scene or stopped to render aid. Police believe that one of the vehicles involved was a Toyota. It is presumed that both vehicles involved would have sustained damage to their front ends.
When the drivers and the vehicles that were involved in this fatal car accident are located, prosecutors will determine whether criminal charges are warranted. Even if no charges are filed, the family of the deceased victim retains the right to file a wrongful death claim in a Louisiana civil court. Establishing that one or both drivers was negligent could result in an award of damages.
Source: wdsu.com, “State police search for 2 vehicles involved in death of bicyclist on Earhart Expressway“, Juan Sanchez, June 1, 2016
