Des Allemands woman killed in fatal wreck on U.S. 90, not wearing seatbelt

A Des Allemands woman was killed today (July 21) in a wreck where on U.S. Highway 90 and ejected from her vehicle.

At about 5:30 a.m., 61-year-old Karen Duran was driving a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado and made a left turn onto Hwy. 90 east at Carlon Drive from the opening of the median when she was struck from the rear by a 2002 Infinity I35, said Louisiana State Police spokeswoman Melissa Matey.

The Infinity was driven by 35-year-old Garland Cottingham of Prairieville, La.

Matey said the impact caused the Chevrolet to overturn in the median, ejecting Duran from the vehicle who was not wearing a seatbelt.

Duran was pronounced dead on the scene.

Cottingham suffered minor injuries and was also unrestrained at the time of the crash, she said.

Matey said the crash is still under investigation.

Cottingham was cited for not wearing a seatbelt and driving under suspension, she said. Matey said he also submitted to a breath test for alcohol and a blood sample taken to be processed at the Louisiana State Police crime lab.

Matey said he also was arrested on several outstanding warrants for his arrest from other jurisdictions.

The majority of motorists who die in crashes are not wearing a seat belt. Despite this fact, some people still choose not to take the three seconds needed to buckle a seatbelt, according to the State Police.

Louisiana law requires motorists to wear a seatbelt in every seating position, front seat and back seat, day and night.

Wearing a seatbelt is the single most effective thing vehicle occupants can do to minimize the risk of injury in the event of a crash. Motorists are encouraged to make the smart choice and to always Buckle Up!

 

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