As motorists, we rely on information provided to us in order to determine how we will drive to ensure our safety and the safety of others. One Louisiana man involved in a recent 40-vehicle car and truck accident on Interstate Highway 10 claims that the state and local authorities did not do enough to prevent the fatal accident from happening.

The accident is believed to have been caused by low-visibility from morning fog and smoke from a nearby marsh fire. Two semi-trucks and many other cars were involved in the havoc that resulted in the death of two people and dozens of injuries.

One man involved in the wreck is filing claims against state and local officials for failing to provide motorists with what was necessary to avoid causing or becoming involved in the massive highway accident. The man noticed visibility becoming worse, so he slowed his vehicle down and suddenly became involved in this accident. As a result of the accident, the man is dealing with a broken bone in his foot.

Along with the negligence of drivers failing to yield to driving conditions, the man concludes that state and local officials did not provide adequate signage and failed to extinguish the marsh fire that has been burning for several weeks.

Being involved in a car accident can result in a long list of damages, including injuries, medical expenses and wages lost as a result of the accident. As drivers, there is only so much we can do to protect ourselves. It is the responsibility of every driver on the road to be vigilant and drive according to the conditions on the road. Furthermore, transportation officials should provide motorists with all they need to make the right decisions as they drive. Clearly, there are many parties that share the responsibility to make sure that everyone traveling by road safely arrives at their destination.

Source: WWLTV, "Lawsuits filed in 40-vehicle fatal accident," Paul Murphy, Jan. 17, 2012