If you have ever read news stories about wrong-way accidents on the interstate, you know how dangerous they can be. They often happen without warning, as the driver who is heading in the proper direction never anticipates a vehicle coming toward them.
They also happen at a high rate of speed. Two vehicles that are traveling at 70 miles an hour on the interstate would have a combined impact speed of 140 miles an hour, often leading to fatalities or severe injuries.
These accidents should never happen, as the interstate is specifically divided into separate lanes that keep opposing traffic apart, but studies have found that most drivers who accidentally head the wrong way on the interstate are under the influence of alcohol. This is part of the reason why the road design itself, with a system of on-ramps and off-ramps, cannot prevent these crashes. A sober driver should see the proper signs and take the correct ramp, but an impaired driver may not realize what they are doing.
Can you avoid these accidents?
It is very difficult to avoid these accidents, but there are some steps to take if you are the sober driver heading in the correct direction. For example, it can be helpful to stay in the right lane. If the wrong-way driver is also in what they believe is their right lane, they will pass you on the left without striking your vehicle.
If you do see the wrong-way driver, the most important thing to do is to protect yourself from harm. Do not try to stop their vehicle or intervene. Just try to pull off the road, onto the shoulder, so that you will not be involved in an accident. You may want to consider flashing your lights or honking your horn and taking other steps to get their attention.
While these tips can help, there is always a chance you could be injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. You may deserve compensation for medical bills and more.