A 34-year-old Chalmette man was killed when a pickup truck struck his motorized bicycle on LA Highway 46 late Aug. 18, according to Louisiana State Police.
The crash happened shortly after 11 p.m. on LA 46, also known as Florissant Highway, near Chevron Plant Road.
A preliminary investigation found that Jonathan Spino was traveling east on a motorized bicycle with a wagon in tow. A 2001 Ford F-250 was also headed east when it struck the bicycle and wagon in the roadway, State Police said.
Investigators have not determined why the crash occurred. Neither the bicycle nor the wagon had lights or reflective tape.
Spino, who was not wearing a helmet, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The pickup driver was properly restrained and was not injured.
Impairment is not believed to have contributed to the crash. Routine toxicology samples were collected for analysis as the investigation continues.
State Police reminded bicyclists that Louisiana law considers bicycles vehicles, meaning riders must follow the same traffic laws as motorists. Troopers also urged riders to use required lighting and reflective clothing at night, remain as visible as possible and ride near the right side of the roadway when practicable, except while passing or turning left.
READ MORE:Chalmette man killed while riding motorized bicycle on LA 46
