Applying Responsibility In A Wrong Way Car Wreck

In the event of a wrong-way car wreck, it may appear clear-cut that the driver who was traveling in the wrong direction is solely responsible for the collision. Nevertheless, it is important to consider that there could be other parties who may be held accountable. Various factors can contribute to the occurrence of such accidents, including inadequate road signage, automobile malfunctions, and other related elements. To ascertain liability in any car accident case, a comprehensive examination of the available evidence is necessary. Once all the evidence has been gathered, it becomes crucial to demonstrate that the negligent actions of the other party were the direct cause of the collision in order to establish a strong claim for damages.

In order to establish a successful personal injury case, it is insufficient to merely demonstrate that the other vehicle was traveling in the incorrect direction during the accident. It is imperative to provide evidence of negligence on the part of the responsible party to substantiate the claim. The claimant must be able to present compelling proof that the accident was a direct result of someone’s negligent actions in order to obtain a favorable ruling.

What Can Lead To A Wrong-Way Motor Vehicle Accident

Head-on collisions or frontal crashes are common outcomes when one car crashes into another in a wrong-way accident. These types of collisions can result in severe and life-threatening injuries, especially when they occur at high speeds. According to a study conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), over 60 percent of wrong-way accidents are caused by drunk driving. However, the actual number may be higher as not all reported cases included information on the drivers’ blood alcohol content (BAC) levels. In addition to drunk driving, the NTSB has identified other factors that contribute to wrong-way accidents. These include but are not limited to:

1. When a driver mistakenly enters a highway in the wrong direction, it can be attributed to unclear signage or confusing access. This typically occurs when the driver is unfamiliar with the road layout and unintentionally enters a highway against the flow of traffic.

2. The risk of wrong-way accidents increases during nighttime driving. In the darkness, drivers are more prone to overlooking poorly placed or poorly lit signage. Similar to drunk driving, drowsy driving is more prevalent late at night. According to a study by the NTSB, 78 percent of wrong-way driving accidents occur between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

3. Wrong-way crashes tend to happen more frequently on weekends. This is likely due to the higher number of intoxicated drivers on the roads from Friday nights through Sunday nights.

4. A significant portion of at-fault drivers in wrong-way crashes are elderly drivers over the age of 70. This can be attributed to declining vision, which may impair their ability to read road signs accurately and drive safely.

5. Wrong-way accidents are more prevalent when vehicles are traveling in the lane closest to the median. The NTSB study found that this is the case in seven out of nine wrong-way collisions.

6. Various driver behaviors can contribute to the likelihood of a wrong-way accident. Some accidents are caused by drivers with mental health issues, dementia, memory loss, or vision problems. These drivers may misinterpret or completely miss road signs.

7. Aggressive driving can also lead to wrong-way collisions. If a driver attempts to overtake another vehicle but misjudges the distance from oncoming traffic, a collision may occur. In certain instances, a reckless driver may intentionally disregard road signs.

We Can Help Figure Out Who Or What Is Responsible

In the event of a wrong-way accident, it is possible that the driver’s loss of control over their vehicle could be attributed to a malfunction in the car or its parts, thereby holding the manufacturer accountable. Alternatively, if inadequate signage played a role in the accident, the responsibility may lie with the local government entity. Wrong-way accidents are often linked to safety concerns such as road maintenance problems, weather conditions, and various traffic hazards. To determine liability in such cases, it is advisable for victims of wrong-way car accidents to seek legal counsel. By consulting with Dallas car wreck attorney Brian Brunson, victims can receive assistance in building a strong case.

IF YOU’VE BEEN INJURED IN A CAR, TRUCK, OR MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT CAUSED BY A WRONG-WAY DRIVER, CONTACT US TODAY.

Named one of the “Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dallas” by Expertise.com, Brian Brunson is Dallas personal injury attorney who is dedicated to helping clients who have suffered a car, truck, or motorcycle injury through the negligent or wrongful conduct of other drivers. In addition, his professionalism is unmatched and the firms’ client reviews speak for themselves.

We proudly serve the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas, our office supports the legal needs of a wide variety of clients. Let the Law Office of Brian Brunson be your advocate in your time of need and help you put your life back together. If we can’t win or settle your case, you don’t pay a dime! We know it can be daunting to take that first step after you’ve been hurt. Contact Brian Brunson today via email or call us toll-free at 1-844-41-WRECK. We can help, when no one else will.