Wrong-way car accidents are often more devastating than most types of Maryland car accidents. According to the National Transportation Safety Board, wrong-way collisions are one of the most serious types of accidents that occur on highways. A recent study showed that such collisions are much more likely to result in fatal or serious injuries than other kinds of highway collisions. One study looking at wrong-way collisions on controlled-access highways found that the fatality rate was 27 times that of other kinds of accidents.
A study by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) found that more than half of wrong-way drivers are impaired by alcohol. It also found that many wrong-way controlled-access cases begin when a driver enters an exit ramp. The NTSB study also found that nearly 80 percent of fatal wrong-way crashes occurred at night, between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
While each case is different, there are several potential defendants in a wrong-way car accident case. Of course, the wrong-way driver is often to blame, due to intoxication or another negligent act. The driver’s employer may be liable if the driver is driving for work purposes. Finally, a municipality can be liable if the road’s design or signs contributed to the crash in some way. Defendants and their insurance companies generally deny liability and try to point the finger at other parties. Building a strong case against all potential parties sets a plaintiff up for the best possible scenario.
Two Killed in Wrong-Way Car Accident
Two men were recently killed in a wrong-way car accident involving a FedEx van in Iowa, according to a news report. According to the police report, a FedEx van being driven by a 30-year-old man was being driven the wrong way in the northbound lanes of a highway. The FedEx van crashed into a Ford F-150 pickup truck driven by a 52-year-old man driving in the opposite direction. Both drivers were killed in the car crash.
The 52-year-old driver was survived by a wife and two children. The man’s employer remarked that he had known the man for over 25 years and that his family was devastated. The man had been on the way to bring materials to a job site as a manager at a construction company. FedEx issued a statement, extending its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the man, and stating that it was cooperating with the investigation into the accident. The state is still in the middle of its investigation into the fatal crash.
Call a Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a wrong-way crash or another head-on collision, seek the assistance of an experienced car accident attorney. The experienced attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen, Personal Injury Lawyers can help you seek the compensation that you deserve and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Our Maryland personal injury lawyers will review your options with you and work with the other parties and insurance companies to try to resolve your claim as appropriately and swiftly as possible. Call us at 800-654-1949 or email us to discuss your legal options with an injury attorney.