State Police say a Youngsville man has died after a two vehicle crash in Iberia Parish.
According to spokesperson Thomas Gossen, Troopers began investigating a two vehicle crash on LA Hwy 87 at Westwood Drive in New Iberia shortly after 2 p.m. on Wednesday. The crash took the life of 37-year-old Michael Paul Schouest III of Youngsville.
An initial investigation revealed that the crash occurred as Schouest was traveling northbound on LA 87. At the same time, 81-year-old Geraldine Dartez was driving a Dodge pickup westbound on Westwood Drive.
Dartez failed to yield as she was crossing over LA 87 and struck the oncoming motorcycle as she entered the northbound lane.
Schouest received fatal injuries as a result of the crash, despite the fact that he was wearing proper safety equipment. Schouest was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.
Dartez was property restrained and was uninjured. Toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers.
Dartez was cited for Right of Way/Vehicle Turning Left at Intersection.
The crash remains under investigation.
Time and time again, Troopers witness preventable motor vehicle crashes. Impairment and lack of seat belt usage are primary causes of crashes across the state of Louisiana. Nearly half of the fatal crashes in Louisiana are caused by impaired drivers. Louisiana State Police urge motorists to have a plan in place that includes a designated driver. Please choose to not drive impaired or ride with an impaired driver, and always buckle up.
