The Problem With Wrong-Way Accidents
Unfortunately, wrong-way driving poses a significant threat to Floridians and represents a substantial risk of causing a car accident here in the Sunshine State. For example, the Orlando Sentinel recently reported that a 37-year-old Kissimmee man died after driving the wrong way in Osceola County. The early morning collision reportedly occurred when the driver impacted head-on with a Tesla sedan. According to authorities, the fatality victim was driving southbound in a northbound lane in his Ford van when the tragedy happened.
How Dangerous Can Wrong-Way Accidents Be?
Statistics suggest that driving the wrong way is a significant cause for automotive accidents. In fact, if you are driving and enter a roadway in the wrong direction, there is a good chance that you might make a mistake that could cause a horrific crash. This is likely largely because other drivers are forced to attempt to maneuver to safety in hopes of avoiding a head-on car collision when one vehicle is driving the wrong way.
What Causes Wrong Way Accidents?
Unsurprisingly, many of these accidents happen on weekends and in the early morning hours when people are most likely to be under the influence of other substances and less likely to be thinking about the consequences of their actions. While the reasons for driving in the wrong direction vary, the most common causes of wrong-way accidents often include factors such as:
- Distracted driving
- Poor ramp design
- Drivers unfamiliar with the roadways in that area
- Getting on the wrong freeway entrance ramp
- Not enough or poorly placed signs
- Lack of visibility
- Drivers under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medications
- Drowsy or tired drivers
- Turning onto a one-way street in the wrong direction
- Drivers suffering from mental health problems
What Should I Do if I Become a Victim of a Wrong Way Driver?
- Pull your vehicle over as soon as possible
- Call 911 to report the driver to authorities
- Stay far away from the wrong way driver and do not engage if he or she tries to talk to you
- Seek medical attention immediately if you are injured by a wrong way driver
- Consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as you can
Have You or a Loved One Been Injured in a Wrong-Way Accident?
Keep in mind that if you witness a driver going the wrong way, your health and safety comes first. That means that while wrong-way car accidents can lead to tragic circumstances, you don’t have to suffer an additional tragedy by living without the compensation you deserve. If you believe that you or a loved one has been injured in a wrong-way car accident at the fault of someone else, reach out to the experienced Orlando personal injury attorneys of The Pendas Law Firm. Contact us today and we will begin helping you develop a plan to recover the compensation you are entitled to.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Bradenton, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Miami and Daytona Beach areas.
Resource:
orlandosentinel.com/news/osceola-county/os-ne-fatal-crash-state-road-429-20191110-igqitu74urfsphce572av5x44e-story.html