Bicyclist Dead Following Early Morning Crash in Iberia Parish

Published: 04-08-2024 | Category: Troop I

Iberia Parish – Shortly before 6:45 a.m., on April 8, 2024, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop I were notified of a fatal crash involving a bicycle on the US 90 Service Road near Darnall Road. The crash claimed the life of 59-year-old Leland Schouest of Opelousas.

The initial investigation by State Police revealed a 1992 Chevrolet Silverado was being driven eastbound on the north US 90 Frontage Road. At the same time, Schouest was traveling westbound in the eastbound lane of travel on a bicycle on the same roadway. For unknown reasons, Schouest turned toward the center of the eastbound lane as the driver of the pickup steered left in an attempt to avoid a collision. The front right of the pickup struck the bicycle. Upon impact, Schouest was ejected from the bicycle.

Schouest suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Iberia Parish Coroner’s Office. A blood sample was obtained for analysis. The driver of the pickup, who was not injured, submitted a proper breath sample, which indicated no alcohol was present and showed no signs of impairment.

This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana bicycle law mandates that cyclists must adhere to traffic regulations just like motorists. Additionally, cyclists are required to ride as close to the right-hand side of the road as possible, except when passing or turning left. Adhering to these laws not only promotes roadway safety but also ensures better understanding between cyclists and other road users in Louisiana.

Troop I has investigated 15 fatal crashes resulting in 16 deaths in 2024.

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