November 15, 2022
It’s like a scene from a movie: troopers driving after a car that is headed in the wrong direction, and this wrong-way driving causes multiple accidents and maneuvers by other drivers simply trying to avoid a head-on collision. Between 2010 and 2018, there were 3,885 deaths resulting from wrong-way crashes, with over half of those killed being the wrong-way driver according to data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). Wrong-way driving can lead to dangerous and even fatal circumstances and can lead to pileups and serious injuries for multiple people.
According to a recent news report, a man from Milford, New Hampshire was arrested on several charges after a wrong-way driving incident involving driving while intoxicated. A sedan was traveling north on the southbound side of an interstate, and multiple vehicles had been forced off the road. As a result, one driver made an evasive maneuver to avoid a head-on collision with the wrong-way vehicle. The wrong-way driver continued until Mile Marker 18.8 when the vehicle was forced to come to a stop by troopers. The driver was taken to a local hospital for his injuries and later arrested for driving while intoxicated, reckless conduct, conduct after an accident, and reckless driving charges.
What Factors Lead to Wrong-Way Driving?Although wrong-way collisions are less common than typical car collisions, there are a variety of factors that could lead to wrong-way driving and collisions. One big factor is driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Having passengers in the car may also decrease the odds of driving in the wrong direction according to the AAA foundation. Furthermore, the FARS data revealed that compared to licensed drivers, those without a license and drivers with suspended, revoked, or expired were more likely to be wrong-way drivers. In addition, the data revealed that drivers of buses and large trucks are less likely to be wrong-way drivers. Individuals who are injured due to the conduct of wrong-way drivers and/or drivers under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs may be able to bring negligence or reckless driving claims. In the state of New Hampshire, reckless driving typically requires proof that the at-fault driver drove in a manner that posed a “substantial and unjustifiable” risk to others, and was aware of but disregarded the risk. If you have been a victim of an accident involving wrong-way driving, connect with an experienced lawyer to help walk you through your possible claims.
Are You In Need of a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Have you or someone you love suffered injuries after a motor vehicle accident involving a drunk driver? If so, contact the dedicated lawyers at Peter Thompson & Associates. We understand that navigating a lawsuit can be scary and confusing, so we approach our work with compassion and use our expertise to help guide you through the process. Our experienced attorneys handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including New Hampshire car accidents, truck accidents, pedestrian and other road accidents, slip and falls, product defects, medical malpractice, dangerous property conditions, and wrongful death. To schedule a no-obligation, free initial consultation, call our office at 800-804-2004.