| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 1412 | 2014-05-17 | Troop B | Motorcyclist Dies after Head-on Collision with 18 Wheeler |
Troop B - NEWS RELEASE May 16, 2014 Motorcyclist Dies after Head-on Collision with 18 Wheeler St. Charles - Earlier this evening at approximately 5:10 PM, Louisiana State Police Troop B responded to a fatality crash on La. 18 near Airport Lane in St. Charles Parish. The crash killed a 60-year-old motorcyclist. Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2000 Harley Davidson motorcycle operated by William Ziebel (W/M) of Waggaman was traveling eastbound on La. 18, and a 2012 Freightliner operated by Russell Mason (B/M 61) of Marrero was traveling westbound on La. 18. Ziebel approached a right-hand curve in the roadway, failed to stay in his lane, crossed the center line, entered the westbound lane, and the front of the Harley Davidson struck the front of the Freightliner. Ziebel sustained life threatening injuries and was transported to St. Charles Hospital where he was later pronounced dead. Ziebel was wearing a novelty helmet, which was not D.O.T. approved. Speed is suspected on Ziebel’s part, and it is unknown if impairment is a factor. Mason was restrained and was not injured. Impairment is not suspected on his part. A blood sample was collected from Ziebel and Mason who voluntarily submitted a sample. Both samples were collected so toxicological analyses could be performed. Those results are pending as this crash remains under investigation. Troopers remind motorists to always obey posted speed limits as well as all traffic control devices. Motorcyclists must wear a proper US D.O.T. helmet when operating their motorcycle on Louisiana roadways. Motorists must also be reminded that alcohol has many effects on the body. Alcohol can impair visual ability, impair fine motor skills needed to operate a vehicle, and decrease reaction times. Just one drink may cause these effects. Motorcycle riders can find more information on helmet guidelines and rider safety courses by visiting www.lsp.org/motorcycle.html. Motorists that witness hazardous situations are always urged to call *LSP (*577) and report that activity to the Louisiana State Police. | |||
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