17-year-old driver facing DWI, hit-and-run charges after crash with bicycle

SULPHUR, La. (KPLC) - A 17-year-old driver was arrested after he hit and seriously injured a cyclist on North Claiborne Street Wednesday night, according to authorities.

A man riding a bicycle was hit from behind by a vehicle around 9:10 p.m. north of Granger Road in Sulphur, Houston River Fire Department officials said. The vehicle then left the scene, according to the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office.

The victim was brought to a hospital with serious injuries.

Deputies tracked down the driver, who appeared to be impaired, according to CPSO.

The teen was booked into the Juvenile Detention Center on the following counts:

• Hit-and-run, serious bodily injury
• DWI, first offense
• First-degree vehicular negligent injuring
• Possession of alcoholic beverages by person under 21.

Fire officials remind residents driving at night to drive safely and be on the lookout for pedestrians and bicyclists who may be on the road. If you are passing a bicyclist you must leave a safe distance of at least three feet between your vehicle and the bicycle.

Bicyclists traveling at night are also advised that they need to stay as close to the right side of the road as possible. When traveling at night, a bicycle must be equipped with a front white light and rear red light, both of which must be visible from 500 feet away.

You can find additional laws pertaining to bicycle operation in Louisiana on DOTD’s website HERE.

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