Why Do Wrong-Way Car Accidents Ever Happen at All?
Wrong-way accidents often have some of the most severe consequences. In cases when the victim survives, the injuries are often catastrophic, changing the life of an innocent person forever.
If you were injured in a wrong-way car accident due to the negligence of another driver, you are within your rights to file a lawsuit. To ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, you need the assistance of an experienced Personal Injury Lawyer.
Causes of Wrong-Way Accidents
There are several reasons why wrong-way collisions happen. Although these incidents are often the result of driver error, other causes may be to blame:
- Driver error, including fatigue, distractions, confusion, and intoxication.
- Road design, such as poorly or dangerously designed roads and confusing exit and entrance ramps.
- Poor signage, including inadequate or confusing signage, causes drivers to go the wrong way.
- Inclement weather conditions, such as heavy rain or fog, could make it challenging for drivers to see road signs and markings.
- Vehicle malfunctions, including a faulty GPS or defective tire.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) estimated that more than half of all wrong-way drivers were impaired by alcohol, with 59% reporting a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.15 or above.
Consequences of Wrong-Way Accidents
Those involved in wrong-way accidents are often left to cope with severe, devastating injuries. Some of the most common injuries caused by these accidents include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Injuries resulting in disfigurement
- Internal injuries
- Wrongful Death
The more severe your injuries are, the higher the value of the damages possible in compensation. Compensation could cover past and future medical expenses, loss of earnings, reduced earning capacity, and pain and suffering. If you lose a loved one to a wrong-way accident, you could pursue a wrongful death claim and potentially recover other forms of compensation.
Preventing Wrong-Way Accidents
Wrong-way accidents often could have been prevented with improved signage and better road designs, which could help keep drivers from mistakenly driving on the wrong side of the road. There are also several precautions drivers could take to help keep these accidents from happening:
- Never drive while drowsy or fatigued. It is essential to stay alert while driving; fatigued driving can be comparable to drunk driving, so ensure you are well-rested before hitting the road.
- Avoid any distractions, such as texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving. Any activity that takes your eyes off the road, even for a moment, could result in a wrong-way accident.
- Maintain awareness of your surroundings and be vigilant of any dangers on the road ahead.
- Never drink and drive. If you plan on drinking, consider using a ridesharing service or getting a ride with a sober driver. You should also be aware of any side effects of any prescription medication you are taking.
- Always use your headlights when driving at night and follow signs and road markings.
If you see a wrong-way driver on the road, do all you can to quickly move away from their path and, once you are out of immediate danger, call 911 to report the driver. If you are injured in a wrong-way accident, do not hesitate to contact an experienced Personal Injury Attorney to guide you through the claims process.