There are thousands of accidents every year in Georgia. Wrong-way driver accidents are among the most serious and result in several hundred injuries and some fatalities. The Georgia Department of Transportation, GDOT, provides data regarding crashes that occur in the state. Recent data shows that the number of wrong-way accidents has been on the rise. The statistics show that the number of wrong-way accidents in 2023 was 852, about double the number of wrong-way crashes in 2013.
What Causes Wrong-Way Accidents?
Wrong-way accidents can occur after a driver mistakenly enters a roadway going in the wrong direction. These types of accidents are due to driver error. Driver error in these cases is likely the result of impairment or distracted driving. The majority of these types of accidents occur at night. The roadway is often poorly lit, making it more difficult for a driver to see. Importantly, the roads have just a few vehicles, so a driver is not always aware of the direction of the road by watching traffic.
Why are Wrong-Way Accidents So Dangerous?
Most wrong-way accidents happen on highways, such as interstates, where the speed limit is up to 70 mph. When a driver is traveling the opposite way of traffic, both their vehicle and the other vehicle may be going at a high rate of speed. A head-on crash at a high rate of speed will result in serious injuries or fatalities for all drivers and passengers. A driver on a highway does not expect to suddenly see another vehicle quickly driving towards them. This leaves little time for a driver to react to avoid a collision.
Preventing Wrong-Way Accidents
Drivers need to stay alert and drive in a defensive manner at all times. Don’t drive when you are impaired or when you are drowsy. If you have been drinking, call for a rideshare service, and do not get behind the wheel. Stay off your cell phone while driving, and do not text. When driving at night, be aware of the potential for wrong-way drivers. Driver more slowly than usual and try to drive in the right lane. If you see someone driving the wrong way or driving erratically, pull over to the side of the road or exit the highway and call the police to report the driver.
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim
Many wrong-way accidents are fatal. The death of a loved one can be extremely traumatic and unexpected. If a loved one died as the result of a wrong-way driver, you may be able to seek compensation. The family of the victim of a fatal car accident has the right to file a wrongful death claim against the negligent driver who caused the crash. You might be able to recover damages such as medical expenses, emotional distress, lost wages, loss of companionship, and more. While nothing can bring back your loved one, you can seek justice for the negligent actions that caused the death. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney will answer your questions and assist you in determining your options.