Only minor injuries resulted after a driver crossed the median on Interstate 10 near mile marker 83 in Acadia Parish and struck an 18-wheeler Tuesday. 35-year-old Curtis Cheley, of DeRidder, was treated for minor injuries before being arrested by Louisiana State Police and charged with reckless driving and driving while intoxicated. After he posted bail, Cheley was later rearrested for battery on a police officer, resisting arrest, attempted carjacking, and interfering with the duties of a police officer. The additional charges were filed by the Acadia Parish Sheriff's Office in connection with an encounter with Cheley prior to the arrival of State Police. Interestingly, the moments leading up to the crash were filmed by a passing motorist. The motorist, Danny Leblanc, stated he called police after he witnessed the pick-up truck driving in front of him swerving wildly. After calling authorities, Leblanc began filming the vehicle using his mobile telephone. For approximately ten miles, the truck repeatedly drove onto and off of the median of the interstate. Finally, the eastbound truck drove into the westbound lanes of I-10. After the pick-up initially missed crashing directly into oncoming cars, the vehicle crashed into an 18-wheeler. Although Leblanc failed to collect video footage of the crash itself, he pulled over and continued to record the events immediately following the crash. He has stated crash survivors exited their vehicles and the driver of the pick-up had a gash on his forehead. Leblanc also stated the driver appeared intoxicated and the man was allegedly difficult to communicate with. Leblanc claims Cheley refused to follow the orders of police on the scene and attempted to punch an officer. He also purportedly witnessed an officer use a taser on the driver of the pick-up in order to subdue him. Most personal injury lawsuits filed annually are the result of a motor vehicle collision. Common causes for automobile accidents include impaired drivers, inattentive drivers, hazardous road conditions, and automobile defects. Injuries resulting from a car crash can range from the very minor to the severely disabling. Individuals hurt in a crash may be entitled to receive monetary damages for medical bills, disability, suffering, pain, lost income, loss of enjoyment of life, and wrongful death. Recovering from an auto accident can be a highly stressful time. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help. If you were injured by a drunk or impaired driver, it is important to consult with an experienced Contact J. Price McNamara ERISA Insurance Claim Attorney as soon as possible after the accident. Experienced personal injury attorney J. Price McNamara assists clients across Louisiana including New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Mandeville, Lafayette, and Metairie. Contact J. Price McNamara for a free comprehensive case analysis through his website or call him at (866) 248-0580.
J. Price McNamara
Attorney
Losing my own brother, then my father and sister after long, disabling illnesses just a few months apart drove a career change for me. Before that experience, I never truly understood the place you’re in. I never understood the dramatic impact that receiving (or not receiving) the disability and life insurance benefits you paid for and counted on can have on your life especially when you need to focus on family and healing. What I experienced with my own family now drives the way I view my clients and my work, and I will never forget it!
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