Jacqueline Merritt Killed in Gonzales Pedestrian Accident
The 20-year-old woman was struck by a vehicle while walking on Highway 44 near Villa Court North
Louisiana recorded 147 pedestrian death in 2023, a toll that continues to rise with another deadly collision this weekend. Jacqueline Merritt, 20, of Gonzales, was killed in a pedestrian accident on Highway 44 at Villa Court North in Ascension Parish on Sunday, April 19, according to the State Police.
Paramedics rushed the critically injured woman to a local hospital, where she later died. The drivers of the two vehicles involved in the collision were not injured and remained at the scene.
The crash occurred around 9 p.m. when a southbound 2012 Chevrolet Silverado struck the pedestrian, who was walking in the center of the southbound lane. After the initial impact, the Silverado came to a stop in the road and was then rear-ended by a 2023 Ram 1500 pickup truck.
Investigators do not suspect impairment played a role in the crash. Routine toxicology samples were collected for analysis as the investigation continues.
How common are pedestrian death on Louisiana highways?
Pedestrian accidents on rural and suburban corridors like Highway 44 represent a growing safety crisis. According to the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, the state averages 1,400 pedestrian crashes annually, with much occurring outside of marked crosswalks or in low-visibility conditions. In pedestrian accidents such as this, traffic safety analysts point to infrastructure and lighting as critical factors. National Legal Analyst Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal. "Nobody thinks a routine trip to the store will end in a tragedy that brings immense grief to families. Fatalities at intersections often occur because of a stale green light, where drivers accelerate too quickly to beat the yellow."
What factors will investigators examine in Ascension Parish?
While the State Police reconstruct the sequence of events on Highway 44, investigators will look at vehicle speeds, driver reaction times, and ambient lighting at the time of the 9 p.m. collision. Families like Merritt's are often left searching for answers while these complex investigations unfold. National Legal Analyst Stefano Formica, of Counsel at Counsel at Bond Legal. "We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their best interests are taken care of. Relatives of wrongful death victims are entitled to seek damages for the loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident."
Louisiana wrongful death statute
Under La. Civ. Code Art. 2315.1, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. Louisiana applies pure comparative fault. The prescriptive period is 1 year from the date of death.
Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of love and affection, funeral expenses, and the decedent's pain and suffering.