Interstate 10 is considered one of the most dangerous roads in America. One section of it, though, located in the state of Louisiana, is particularly bad. So bad, in fact, that it has been named “Dead Man’s Curve.” Over the years, numerous motor vehicle accidents have happened in this spot; sadly, some have proved fatal.
According to reports, where I-10 curves near Opelousas Street in Lake Charles is one of the most dangerous spots on this stretch of highway. In the past five years, there have been 125 accidents at this location. Of those, 45 involved commercial vehicles. Only one fatality has been recorded since 2014.
A truck driver who frequently travels through this area says that the quick change in the speed limit and the curve are a dangerous combination. It is even worse when bad weather is an issue. Others who drive this road say that lighting is poor. So far, the state has put up signs to warn drivers of the curve, but many people want to see actual changes made to the road. A spokeswoman for the Department of Transportation says that there are no immediate plans to make significant modifications to this particular stretch of highway, despite the number of accidents that have happened there.
Motor vehicle accidents happen for a number of reasons. Yes, poor driver behavior is usually the main culprit, but weather and road structure may also contribute. Victims of auto collisions or — in the event of fatality — their surviving family members may seek compensation for their losses by filing civil claims against those believed responsible. When it comes to collisions occurring at “Dead Man’s Curve,” drivers or the state may be held accountable for one’s losses. Legal counsel can review one’s case and help one pursue relief by filing claims against the appropriate parties in a Louisiana civil court.