As wrong-way driver accidents increase, so do personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits against at-fault parties
Recently, it has been nearly impossible to watch an evening newscast without hearing about another, often fatal, wrong-way accident. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) issued a report in 2012 after conducting a lengthy special investigation into the number of occurrences and contributing factors relating to wrong-way crashes. From 2004-2009, there were 1,566 fatal wrong-way accidents that occurred on divided highways leading to 2,139 fatalities.
Even though the number of wrong-way crashes may be less than the overall number of vehicle accidents, wrong-way crashes are head-on collisions and are, by their very nature, more dangerous. A vast majority of wrong-way crashes occur on access ramps and high speed highways at night. Further contributing to the inherently serious nature of wrong-way crashes, a large majority of wrong-way drivers are found to be impaired by drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident. In many cases, these drivers also had a prior history of DUI convictions.
Many communities are establishing task forces and community response groups to address the growing problem of wrong-way accidents. Improved highway interchange and access ramps are one of the key areas where advancements are necessary. Larger, pre-lit signs with visible warnings to advise drivers that they are traveling against the legal flow of traffic also contribute to preventing avoidable accidents.
If you are involved in an accident with a wrong-way driver, it is important to explore your options and protect your best interests. You may be entitled to receive monetary damages for medical expenses including the costs of treatment, physical therapy and surgery. If you are unable to work, you may also be able to receive compensation for past and future lost wages. Our attorneys are also able to help you recover compensation for emotional and physical pain and suffering. If you lose a loved one due to a wrong-way driver accident, we’re here to help you pursue a claim for wrongful death.
Automobile accidents require lengthy investigations and the assistance of many different entities. We utilize innovative techniques to develop a strong case that supports your claims and protects your best interests. To schedule a free consultation with the Florida wrong-way driver accident attorneys at Osborne & Associates, call (561) 293-2600 or send an email today. We stay by your side throughout the whole process from start to finish.