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What Are the Causes of Wrong-Way Crashes?

May 8, 2019

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Wrong-way accidents often result in vehicle occupants suffering severe and even life-threatening injuries. The Federal Highway Administration says that wrong-way crashes kill between 300 and 400 people annually in the U.S., despite representing only a small percentage of accidents. That’s because many wrong-way crashes involve head-on collisions—one of the deadliest types of crashes.

Knowing the causes of wrong-way crashes can help you reduce your risks and stay safe on Ohio’s roadways. Three common causes of wrong-way collisions include:

  1. Drunk driving—Many wrong-way crashes occur late at night and when drivers are intoxicated. Alcohol consumption impairs vision and judgment, and that can result in drunk drivers entering highways and interstates traveling in the wrong direction, putting themselves and others in danger.
  2. Distracted driving—One-way streets and exit-only ramps are often clearly marked, and the signs can be difficult for drivers to miss. But when drivers are distracted, they may not realize that they’ve entered a roadway heading in the wrong direction until it’s too late.
  3. Reduced visibility—Driving at night, in heavy rain, or through dense fog can make it difficult to see highway signs and the road ahead. When visibility is reduced, drivers may turn the wrong way down one-way streets or cross the median and travel in the path of oncoming traffic.

If you see a wrong way driver, call 911 and report it. Police may be able to intercept the driver and prevent a serious collision from occurring.

Wrong-Way Drivers Should Be Held Liable When They Cause Crashes

At Nurenberg Paris, we know that many wrong-way crashes are due to driver error. And like all crashes that can be attributed to negligence, we believe that victims should get the compensation they deserve for their medical bills and lost wages.

If you or someone you love was injured in a wrong-way accident, contact our Ohio auto accident lawyers today. We’re ready to put our experience and resources to work for your family.

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