Man in electric wheelchair in fatal crash with Jeep
A Thibodaux man died Wednesday afternoon when his electric wheelchair was struck by a Jeep.
State Police were called to Choctaw Road near Thibodaux Wednesday at about 2 p.m., a spokesman said.
They found that Carl Guidry, 54, had suffered fatal injuries in the crash.
Guidry was traveling in his wheelchair in the westbound lane of the road, near the fog line, troopers said. He then steered his wheelchair to the left, farther into the road, troopers said. At the same time, a Jeep Cherokee was approaching him in a curve, and struck the wheelchair, troopers said.
The 77-year-old driver of the Jeep wasn't injured, troopers say.
Impairment is not suspected to be a factor in the crash; however, a standard toxicology report is pending on the part of Guidry through the Lafourche Parish Coroner's Office. Richard submitted to a breath test which showed no alcohol present.
"Troopers urge pedestrians to maintain a heightened level of awareness while walking near the road. Simple precautions such as wearing reflective materials, avoiding distractions, and walking a safe distance from travel lanes while facing oncoming traffic could help prevent many pedestrian related crashes. Troopers would also like to take this opportunity to remind motorists that making good choices, such as never driving while impaired and ensuring every occupant is properly restrained, can often be key to preventing and surviving serious crashes," a release states.