An 18-year-old Private Second Class assigned to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Polk, Louisiana, died in an automobile mishap in Denham Springs, Louisiana, at local. The Soldier’s vehicle collided with a truck on the highway and rolled into a ditch. Emergency services were called, and the Soldier was pronounced dead at the scene. Seat belt use, speed, and the potential involvement of alcohol or drugs are unknown. Additional information is currently unavailable.
Since FY21, the Army has lost an average of 36 Soldiers a year to off-duty automobile mishaps. This mishap was the 10th off-duty automobile fatality of FY26 and below the number of fatalities for this same time last year.
Safety Tips
Making a left turn across highway traffic is one of the most dangerous maneuvers a driver can perform, requiring precise judgment of speed and distance. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 36 percent of all crashes occur at intersections, with left turns being a major contributing factor. This highlights the critical need for extreme caution and defensive driving techniques when entering or crossing high-speed roadways. Here are some essential safety tips to prevent a collision when turning left onto a highway:
- Look Left, Right, Then Left Again: Before pulling out, scan for traffic by looking left, then right, and then one final time to the left. The final look confirms that the closest lane is clear at the exact moment you intend to move. Traffic on a high-speed road can close the distance incredibly fast.
- Judge Gaps for Trucks and Motorcycles Differently: Never assume you can pull out in front of a large truck. Trucks appear to be moving slower than they are and require a much longer distance to stop. Conversely, motorcycles are smaller and their speed can also be deceptive, so give them a wide berth.
- Demand a Larger Gap Than You Think You Need: When turning onto a highway with a speed limit of 55 mph or higher, you need a significant gap in traffic. If you have any doubt whether you can make the turn safely, wait for the next gap. A few seconds of patience can prevent a fatal decision.
- Keep Your Wheels Straight While Waiting: While waiting at the stop line to make your turn, keep your steering wheel pointed straight ahead. If you are struck from behind, this will prevent your vehicle from being pushed into the path of oncoming traffic.
- Avoid "Creeping" and Commit to Your Turn: Do not slowly inch your way into the intersection. Wait for a confirmed, safe gap and then accelerate briskly and deliberately through the turn to get up to the speed of traffic as quickly and safely as possible.
- Ensure Zero Distractions Before Turning: This critical maneuver requires your complete and undivided attention. Put away your phone, pause conversations and lower the radio volume. Your focus must be entirely on the traffic environment outside your vehicle.