Truck Driver Faces Charges in Deadly Louisiana Highway Crash
A tragic highway crash during a dense “super fog” in Louisiana in October has led to charges of negligent homicide for a truck driver, Ronald Britt of Lafayette. The crash resulted in a massive traffic pileup that left seven people dead and dozens injured, according to authorities.
The Louisiana State Police reported that Britt was driving an 80,000-pound vehicle at around 60 m.p.h. on Oct. 23 when he crashed into the car ahead of him on Interstate 55 northwest of New Orleans. The impact killed a 60-year-old man, James Fleming of Missouri, and severely injured his wife, Barbara Fleming.
Authorities determined that Britt was operating at a negligent speed given the severe weather conditions at the time, which ultimately led to the death of Mr. Fleming and the injuries sustained by his wife. Poor weather conditions and limited visibility prevented vehicles from safely exiting the highway, causing congestion and multiple crashes.
Louisiana state law requires drivers to maintain a safe speed appropriate for the prevailing driving conditions. Britt, 61, surrendered to authorities on Monday and is facing charges of negligent homicide, negligent injuring, reckless operation, and other traffic offenses. Negligent homicide in Louisiana carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both.
The crash was one of several that day, as an impenetrable mist shrouded the area. In total, seven people died and 63 were injured in the large traffic pileup, which involved at least 168 vehicles. The authorities initially reported eight fatalities but later revised the figure due to “intense fires” that complicated the identification of victims.
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safe driving practices, especially in hazardous weather conditions.
