A DeQuincy woman died Saturday in a Calcasieu Parish crash, State Police say.
Joann Fairchild, 56, died in the crash, which happened around 6 p.m. on La. 109.
Troopers say their preliminary investigation revealed that Fairchild was operating a car northbound on the highway when it crossed the center line in a no-passing zone to pass another northbound vehicle. She tried to return to her lane but her car ran off the road and hit a utility pole.
She wasn't wearing her seatbelt, troopers say, and she was pronounced dead at the scene. Impairment is unknown at this time; however, a routine toxicology sample was obtained and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Troopers say: "Passing in designated no-passing zones significantly increases the risk of serious and fatal crashes by limiting visibility and reducing the time available to react to oncoming traffic. Louisiana State Police urges all motorists to obey roadway markings, remain patient, and only pass when it is legal and safe to do so. Proper restraint use also significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death in a crash. Louisiana law requires every occupant, regardless of seating position, to be properly restrained at all times."
