TROOP B - NEWS RELEASE April 14, 2014 Lack of Seat Belt Use is Factor in St. Bernard Fatal Crash St. Bernard Parish - On Sunday, April 13, 2014 at approximately 2:30 PM, Louisiana State Police Troop B investigated a fatal crash on LA 46 near Stay Park Road. The crash claimed the life of 44 year-old Paula Everhardt of St. Bernard. Preliminary investigation revealed that Brian Phillips (age 45) of Pearl River, LA was driving a 2006 Ford F-150 with a boat trailer on LA 46 west in the right lane. The Ford F-150 was approaching a 1997 Nissan truck, driven by Fredrick Everhardt (age 45) of St. Bernard, that was in the right lane ahead of the Ford F-150. The Nissan was traveling at a slower speed than the Ford and when Phillips realized this, he attempted to avoid impacting the Nissan by swerving to the left. The Ford F-150 impacted the Nissan on the rear left bumper which caused the Nissan to leave the roadway to the right. The Nissan overturned and struck a tree. The Ford F-150 also ran off the road to the right which jack-knifed the truck and trailer and overturned. Fredrick and Paula Everhardt were not wearing seat belts at the time of the crash and Paula was ejected from the vehicle. Paula Everhardt was transported to St. Bernard Hospital where she was pronounced dead. Fredrick Everhardt and Brian Phillips were transported to local hospitals with moderate injuries. Phillips was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. Impairment and speed are not considered factors of the crash, however toxicology results for Phillips are pending at the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. The crash remains under investigation and charges are pending. Motorists need to remain vigilant at all times while they are behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. Troopers remind motorists to avoid distractions while driving. Distractions, such as cell phones, passengers, radios, etc., take a driver’s focus away from the road. When focus is taken away from the road, the serious injury and fatality crash rate rises. Seat belts also greatly enhance your chances of surviving a motor vehicle crash. Seat belts prevent ejection from vehicles and Louisiana law requires the use of seat belts in every seating position. Please make good decisions behind the wheel; buckle up each and every ride, drive sober and place your full attention on the road and other motorists. Contact Information: TFC Melissa Matey Louisiana State Police – Troop B Public Affairs Unit Office: (504) 471-2780 [email protected]
Posted on: Mon, 14 Apr 2014 19:18:46 +0000
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