New Orleans Police officer Tony Mitchell died in a chain-reaction crash on the West Bank Expressway. The impact of the wreck threw Mitchell onto the lower-level eastbound roadway. He died at the scene.
Mitchell was a 19-year veteran of the department.
According to NOLA.com, Mitchell was the second NOPD officer to die in a motor-vehicle accident within three months. In June, 32-year-old Natasha Hunter died while investigating an accident on Interstate 10. A drunk driver slammed into the back of her vehicle while she was stopped on the highway. Hunter died from her injuries two days later.
Tragedies like these happen far too often. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 32,000 people died in car accidents in 2014. If your loved one died in a crash, you may be able to recover compensation by filing a wrongful death lawsuit.
If the incident happened in Louisiana, turn to Morris Bart, LLC. A New Orleans personal injury attorney will help you pursue the maximum compensation for medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, lost wages and other damages. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free consultation.
How to Avoid Accidents When Driving on the Highway
The vast majority of car crashes are avoidable. Next time you drive on the highway, keep these four tips in mind:
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Avoid the Fast Lane
According to Motorists.org, hogging the left lane not only is bad etiquette, but it can also increase your risk of getting in an accident. This is because you will have fewer escape routes if you need to take evasive action. Rather, stay in the middle or right lane when driving on multilane roads.
Scan the Road Ahead
Paying attention to the car in front of you isn’t enough; you should also keep tabs on the vehicle in front of that car. If it stops suddenly or swerves to avoid a hazard, you will have plenty of time to brake gradually or change lanes to avoid an accident.
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Survey Your Blind Spots
All vehicles have blind spots. Although proper mirror positioning can reduce the size of your blind spots, you should always look over your shoulder before changing lanes. You should also avoid driving in other vehicles’ blind spots.
Maintain a Safe Following Distance
The faster you drive, the longer your stopping distance will be. As such, you will need more space to brake when travelling on the highway compared to residential areas. As a rule of thumb, maintain three seconds of distance from the leading vehicle when the weather is clear, and double that length in adverse conditions.
Unfortunately, even the safest drivers are not immune to accidents. If you were injured in a crash with a negligent motorist, contact Morris Bart, LLC.
A New Orleans auto accident lawyer will evaluate your case, interview witnesses, gather evidence, and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
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