Louisiana Man Killed Attempting to Cross LA 1 on Riding Lawn Mower in Lafourche Parish

Lafourche Parish, Louisiana – A Louisiana man was killed while attempting to cross LA 1 on a riding lawn mower in Lafourche Parish.

According to Louisiana State Police, Troop C was notified of a fatal incident involving a riding lawn mower on Louisiana Highway 1 near Richland Drive on June 9, 2023, just before 10:00 a.m. Larry Helm, 77, of Thibodaux, Louisiana, was killed in the crash.

Helm was reportedly attempting to cross Louisiana Highway 1 from the southbound shoulder while driving a Craftsman riding lawn mower, according to a preliminary inquiry. A 2023 GMC 3500 was driving north on LA Highway 1 at the same moment. Helm crossed the road directly into the path of the GMC. The GMC driver tried to avoid a collision by braking and steering to the right but struck the lawn mower.

Helm died at the scene of the crash as a result of his injuries. The GMC’s driver and two passengers were all properly restrained and received no injuries.
While impairment is not thought to be a factor in this incident, a routine toxicological sample was taken from Helm and sent for examination. The GMC driver voluntarily consented to a breath test, which revealed that no alcohol was detected. This crash is still being investigated.

Before crossing a road, take the time to look both ways for approaching vehicles and wait for a sufficient gap in traffic before crossing. To avoid potential danger, it is critical to move quickly but cautiously. Remember, never assume that a motorist sees you, and attempt to make eye contact with the driver to ensure they are aware of your presence.

So far in 2023, Troop C has investigated 10 fatal crashes that resulted in 12 fatalities.