E-bike rider from Patterson dies in crash

A crash early Wednesday killed a Patterson man who was riding an electric bicycle on U.S. 90, Louisiana State Police said.
Troopers didn’t identify the victim other than to say he was 42 and from Patterson.
According to the Troop I account, troopers began investigating the crash shortly before 1 a.m. Wednesday on U.S. 90 East near Alice C Road.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2000 Ford F-350 with a gooseneck trailer attached was traveling east on U.S. 90 in the outside lane. At the same time, the electric bicyclist was riding east along the fog line on U.S. 90.
The bicyclist was not wearing a helmet and was dressed in dark clothing. The e-bicycle's lighting is unknown. For reasons still under investigation, the Ford struck the e-bicyclist.
The e-bicyclist sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Ford was properly restrained and reported no injuries.
The Ford driver is not suspected of impairment and provided a breath sample of 0.000g%. A routine toxicology sample was obtained from the bicyclist and submitted for analysis. The crash remains under investigation.
Troopers remind bicyclists that, under Louisiana law, bicycles are considered vehicles and riders must follow the same traffic laws as motorists. Never assume a driver can see you. Stay visible with proper lighting and reflective clothing, especially in low-light conditions.
Cyclists should ride as close to the right side of the roadway as practicable, except when passing or turning left. Additionally, Louisiana law requires proper lighting equipment when riding at night.
For more bicycle safety information, visit the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission’s website at https://www.lahighwaysafety.org/our-programs/bicycle-pedestrian-safety/.