Aggrostats

According to investigating troopers, Tony L. Thibodeaux, Jr. of Merryville, LA was traveling south on LA 111 while operating a 2004 Suzuki GSK motorcycle. For unknown reasons, the motorcycle veered off the right side of the roadway, entered a grassy ditch area and struck a fence post. As a result of impact, Thibodeaux was ejected from the motorcycle.

Thibodeaux was wearing an approved Department of Transportation (DOT) helmet but failed to properly secure it on his head prior to the crash. Consequently, the helmet came off during the crash and Thibodeaux sustained fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene by the Vernon Parish Coroner.

Routine toxicology test results are pending and the crash remains under investigation.

Troop E troopers have investigated 42 fatal crashes for the year of 2011, resulting in 44 fatalities.

According to statistics from the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, in 2010 motorcyclists were involved in over 1800 crashes across the state resulting in 73 fatalities. Louisiana Law requires that all motorcycle operators and occupants wear a DOT approved helmet and that it be properly fastened on their head. Motorcycle helmets save lives. To help protect the lives of motorcycle riders and occupants, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that all motorcycle helmets sold in the United States meet specific Federal Motor Vehicle Safety standards. This standard defines minimum levels of performance that helmets must meet to protect the head and brain in the event of a crash.

Motorcycle riders can find more information on helmet guidelines and rider safety courses by visiting http://lahighwaysafety.org/motorcycle.html.

Contact Information:
TFC Cordell Williams
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Unit
Office: (318) 741-7411
cordell.williams@dps.la.gov