Sabine Parish, LA (March 3, 2026) – A two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Louisiana LA 120 and LA Highway 175 on Saturday evening, February 28, left one woman dead and three others injured in Sabine Parish. The accident occurred around 5:27 p.m.
Preliminary information shows that a 2000 Chevrolet van was traveling west along LA Highway 120. Investigators said the driver failed to stop at the intersection for reasons still being examined.
The van then left the roadway and struck a ditch embankment near the intersection. The force of the crash caused severe damage to the vehicle.
Authorities said Kathy Birdwell, 66, of Natchitoches, was riding in the van at the time of the crash. She suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver and two other passengers were wearing seat belts and sustained moderate injuries. Emergency crews transported them to a nearby medical facility for treatment.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
How Intersection Crashes Can Happen on Rural Highways
Intersections along rural highways can present unique risks for drivers, especially when traffic approaches from multiple directions at higher speeds. Unlike intersections in cities, rural crossings may have fewer traffic signals or visual cues, which means drivers must rely more on posted signs and awareness of surrounding vehicles.
Failure to stop at a posted sign is one of the most common factors in rural intersection crashes. When a vehicle enters the crossing without stopping, other drivers often have little time to react, which can lead to a loss of control, roadway departures, or collisions with roadside features such as ditches or embankments.
Roadway design can also affect how drivers approach intersections. Curves, hills, and limited sight distance may reduce how early a driver can see cross traffic or warning signs.
Maintaining attention, slowing when approaching intersections, and scanning for cross traffic can help reduce the likelihood of serious crashes in these areas.
