A bicyclist was killed after getting hit by a car at the intersection of Barton Avenue and Highway 90 in Luling at 8 p.m. Monday night.
According to State Police, Lydia Goellner, 50, of Thibodaux, was driving a 1994 Nissan Pathfinder west on Highway 90 in the right lane when the crash occurred. The bicyclist had exited a private drive and crossed the east lanes of Highway 90. The bicyclist then tried to cross the west lanes of Highway 90 but ran into the path of the Pathfinder.
The bicyclist, who was not wearing a helmet, was pronounced dead on the scene. The identification of the bicyclist will be released after the next of kin is notified.
State Police don’t believe that speed and impairment were factors in the crash, but toxicology results will be gathered during an autopsy of the bicyclist.
According to Louisiana State Law, bicycles must travel in the same direction as traffic and obey all traffic laws, including crossing streets at crosswalks and only when permitted. Bicycles must also have a lamp mounted on the front that shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at least five hundred feet to the front. They shall also have a lamp mounted on the rear that will emit either a flashing or steady red light visible from a distance of five hundred feet to the rear.
“Remember to wear bright and reflective clothing when walking or bicycling at night. Also, bicycle helmets are 85 percent effective in reducing total head and brain injuries,” Trooper Melissa Matey, spokesman for the State Police, said. “Bicycle helmets are the single most effective way to reduce fatalities due to head injuries. When wearing a bicycle helmet, make sure it fits snugly on your head and the clasp is locked.”
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