Car manufacturers put a great deal of effort into ensuring that their vehicles are safe. Despite their efforts, however, there is no sure way of completely avoiding motor vehicle accidents. However, using features such as seat belts can often provide some protection. Unfortunately, a young girl who was reportedly not restrained was recently killed in a recent accident in Louisiana. The driver now faces multiple charges.
The accident happened one afternoon in late June. Police say that a 34-year-old woman who was driving south on a Louisiana road attempted a left turn. The driver of another southbound vehicle, a 27-year-old man, allegedly attempted to illegally pass the first vehicle, causing a collision.
As a result of the collision, the second vehicle flipped, ejecting a 9-year-old girl who police say was not properly restrained. She died as a result of injuries suffered. Seven other people, including six youths, from that vehicle required hospital treatment. The driver of that vehicle now faces multiple charges, including several seatbelt violations, negligent homicide and passing in a no passing zone.
Because of this accident, the family of a young girl is left coping with her tragic, unexpected and seemingly preventable death. While police and other authorities will seek justice through criminal charges, this does little to help families suffering from the financial consequences of a death or injury. As a result, many victims of motor vehicle accidents pursue damages in a Louisiana civil court. If it can be proved that harm was caused by negligence, victims could receive an award of damages to help with medical costs and funeral expenses, among other financial burdens.
Source: klfy.com, “Unrestrained 9-year old girl dies in Iberville Parish two vehicle crash“, June 28, 2016
