On August 6, 2024, shortly after 8:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop I was notified of a vehicle crash involving a bicyclist on Louisiana Highway 343 near Landry Road. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 39-year-old Lawrence Hebert of New Iberia.
The preliminary investigation revealed Hebert was southbound on LA 343 while riding a bicycle. At the same time, a 2013 GMC Sierra was traveling south, approaching Hebert, when it struck him from behind. Troopers determined that Hebert was not wearing a helmet and his bicycle had no lights or reflectors.
Hebert suffered severe injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the GMC was properly restrained and sustained no injuries.
Although impairment on the part of the GMC driver was not suspected, they voluntarily provided a breath sample that showed no alcohol detected. A standard toxicology sample was collected from Hebert and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
To ensure safety, Louisiana state law (LRS 32:329.1) mandates bicycles to be equipped with specific lighting and reflectors. Bicycles are required to have a white light in the front and a red light in the rear, both visible from at least 500 feet away. Additionally, a rear reflector must be visible from 100 feet away, and side-mounted reflectors must be visible from 100 to 600 feet. These measures are in place to enhance visibility and promote safety when riding at night or in low-light conditions.
For more information on bicycle safety, please visit the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission’s website at https://www.lahighwaysafety.org/our-programs/bicycle-pedestrian-safety/.