Ascension Parish, LA (March 13, 2025) – A collision involving a pickup truck and a semi-truck on Interstate 10 near mile marker 170 claimed the life of 41-year-old Dwayne Jackson of New Orleans.
Accident Details: Troopers say the crash occurred on the westbound side of I-10, where Jackson was driving a 2006 Nissan Titan in the right lane. At the same time, a 2025 Freightliner tractor-trailer attempted to enter the highway from the right shoulder. The front of Jackson’s pickup truck collided with the rear of the Freightliner. Authorities are still investigating why this collision occurred. Jackson sustained severe injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died. The truck driver was not injured.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: This case raises serious questions about merging behavior and commercial driver responsibility. When a tractor-trailer re-enters a highway from the shoulder, the driver must ensure it is safe. Failing to yield to oncoming traffic or entering the roadway too slowly can create a hazard for approaching drivers, particularly on high-speed interstates.
Investigators will examine several factors to determine liability. One key issue is whether the Freightliner’s driver merged safely and legally from the shoulder. Authorities will likely review dash cam or surveillance footage, eyewitness statements, and data from the semi-truck’s electronic logging device (ELD) and event data recorder (EDR). These devices can reveal the truck’s speed, braking, and lane position before impact.
Depending on the results of the investigation, Jackson’s family may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim for damages related to their loss.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Dwayne Jackson.
Source: Gonzales Weekly Citizen