Wrong-Way Collision Takes Another Life
We don’t know what was going through the minds of either person as their vehicles sped toward one another on I-295 one Tuesday night. We do know that a Sedan was traveling the wrong direction that fateful evening, and that a young woman lost her life because of it. It was yet another senseless tragedy due to wrong-way driving in Florida.
Facts About Wrong-Way Collisions
Although there are relatively few wrong-way collisions in Florida—just under 4,000 last year—these incidents tend to be very serious, with 128 such accidents leading to fatalities in 2022 alone. That’s because most of the time- in over 80 percent of cases–these crashes are head-on collisions, and the impact is stunning.
When Encountering a Wrong-Way Driver
When motorists come across wrong-way drivers, FHP encourages them to get off of the road and quickly call 911. Early morning or late-night driving tends to result in more wrong-way drivers, so it is suggested that motorists drive in the far right lanes to try to avoid collisions of this kind.
Causes of Wrong-Way Accidents
A number of factors could lead to a wrong-way mishap, including:
- Drunk driving;
- Distracted drivers;
- Fatigued driving;
- Poor lighting or visibility;
- Weather conditions;
- Confusion due to unfamiliarity with the area, being a new driver, or health issues.
Results of Wrong-Way Driving
These kinds of collisions generally have tragic outcomes, including death. Other common issues include:
- Brain and head injuries;
- Spinal cord injuries;
- Internal bleeding;
- Burns;
- Broken bones;
- Damage to internal organs;
- Paralysis.
FDOT Steps In
The Florida Department of Transportation has started improvements on off-ramps statewide, since many wrong-way collisions occur on these ramps. More than 500 ramps will be equipped with radar that detects oncoming vehicles and reflective signage, along with blinking lights, and improved pavement markers. Approaching motorists will be warned they’re going the wrong direction with those flashing lights, and officials at a traffic management center will be notified that there is a problem, sending FHP to the location.
Determining Fault
It is often relatively easy to determine who was at fault in a wrong-way collision based on police reports, witness testimony, surveillance videos, and the types of injuries that occur. Unfortunately, offenders are often charged with just a moving violation, although criminal charges may occur depending on the circumstances of the crash. At any rate, where does that leave the victims of wrong-way crashes?
Advocating for Victims
At Salazar & Kelly Law Group, our experienced Kissimmee car accident attorneys know that you have suffered, and believe that a reckless or negligent driver who took to the roads should pay the consequences. There is every possibility that you are entitled to damages to address your medical bills, funeral costs, and more. To discuss your situation, schedule a confidential consultation in our Kissimmee office today.
Source:
news4jax.com/news/local/2023/06/28/1-dead-1-seriously-injured-after-head-on-crash-on-i-295/
