Louisiana Unborn Child Dies after Vehicle Hit by 18-Wheeler

(Port Barre, Louisiana) - Louisiana State Police officials say that an unborn child died after a collision with an 18-wheeler in which the driver of the big rig failed to stop at a stop sign.

According to Peggy Bourque with the Public Affairs Section of Louisiana State Police, the pregnant woman was driving in the right lane down US Highway 190. The 18-wheeler was being driven southbound on Louisiana Highway 743 by 51-year-old Albert Jenkins of Lafayette.

Where Did This Crash Happen?

Their information from Tuesday morning is preliminary, but Bourque says Jenkins failed to stop at a stop sign in the Port Barre area. He turned left onto US Highway 190, and his 18-wheeler collided with the mother's vehicle as he turned into the path of her car. Bourque says the mom's car his the back of the 18-wheeler's trailer.

The mother was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. She received critical injuries and was immediately taken to a hospital. While the woman is still hospitalized, Bourque says her unborn child died from injuries sustained in the crash.

Jenkins was also wearing a seat belt but did not receive any injuries in the crash. As is typical in any case such as this, a toxicology sample was taken from the man for analysis.

Louisiana State Police Officials Remind Drivers Of The Following:

• Always remember, if applicable, that you must yield the right of way.
• Anyone driving should remember to be observant of any road signs.
• When at a stop sign, a driver should come to a complete stop before driving on.
• When you are stopped at a stop sign, look in both directions before you drive away to ensure the roads are clear enough for you to turn.
• They suggest you look twice to ensure the roadway is clear.

The investigation into this crash continues.

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