Wrong-way driving accidents are a serious problem on our roadways, accounting for approximately 500 fatalities every year. Wrong-way collisions (defined as a driver who operates their vehicle in the opposite direction of travel on a freeway or highway and collides with a vehicle traveling in the right direction) are a safety problem all drivers should be aware of.
Impaired driving (when the driver is under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, medications, illegal drugs, or other substances) is one of the leading causes of wrong-way collisions. Other common causes include:
“Wrong-way driving incidents account for approximately 3.7% of fatal crashes on divided highways, leading to an average of 500 deaths annually between 2015 and 2018. “
Wrong-way crashes on divided highways are often fatal as they are typically head-on collisions. Like wrong-way collisions, head-on collisions can result in catastrophic injuries, permanent impairments, and wrongful deaths.
How common are head-on collisions? In 2022, frontal impact caused 15,192 fatalities. [Source: Passenger vehicle occupants (iihs.org)]
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Wrong-way driving accidents may occur less frequently but often they can be fatal. Injuries can include:
Wrong-way accidents cause severe injuries.
Stay in the right lane, especially at night as most wrong-way crashes happen in the left lane. Other tips to help you avoid a wrong-way collision:
If you see a wrong-way driver, reduce your speed and move to the right side of the road. Flash your lights and honk your horn. Call 911 to report the incident.
Having an attorney who is your advocate can offer you peace of mind during your recovery. We have a successful track record of helping accident victims collect the compensation they deserve. Our attorneys can:
Have you or a loved one been seriously injured in a wrong-way or head-on motor vehicle accident in which you suffered serious injuries due to another’s negligence? Call the Kansas City-based law firm of Nash & Franciskato at (877) 284-6600.
One of our experienced staff will speak with you personally and provide you with a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on June 20, 2022. It was reviewed on January 6, 2025, for content and accuracy, and re-published.
