As a driver, few things are scarier than seeing another driver speeding towards you, going the wrong direction. Unfortunately, wrong-way drivers are often responsible for car accidents that result in severe injury or even death.
So while you can’t do anything to prevent another driver from going the wrong way down a street, you can be pro-active when it comes to defending against one. The way to do this is first to understand a bit about the prevalence of these wrong-way accidents.
The Impact of Wrong-Way Drivers
A majority of wrong-way drivers are under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Those who are not are often distracted, rushing, and mistake the exit of a road or highway for an entrance. Although police officers that see wrong-way drivers will attempt to get their attention and stop them, they aren’t always successful. These wrong-way accidents are responsible for killing 300 to 400 people each year in the United States.
Always Be Proactive
To be proactive against wrong-way drivers is important that you follow a few different steps:
- Be sure to drive in the right lane whenever you are not passing someone. Since most drivers (including those going the wrong way) believe that they are staying in the right lane too, they are actually in the left lane, just driving the wrong direction.
- Always keep an eye on the surroundings and drivers around you – including those in the distance.
- Should you see a driver going the wrong way, immediately call 9-1-1 and inform them of the vehicle, its location, and the direction it’s driving. This can help to prevent a fatal collision.
In an effort to reduce the number of wrong-way accidents, Michigan, along with some other states, has created and implemented warning systems along off-ramps in an effort to get the driver’s attention before a crash occurs.
The Attorneys at Miller & Tischler, P.C. Can Help
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a wrong-way driver, you should not have to be bear the burden alone. When you are already dealing with so much, the last thing that you want to do is to have to worry about tackling the legalities of your situation.
The Michigan personal injury attorneys at Miller & Tischler, P.C. can help you to fight for the compensation that you deserve. We understand the seriousness of your injury and the physical, emotional, and financial hardships that you have endured and will continue to endure. We can help you to gather the necessary evidence and build a case to help you receive the most optimal outcome. We’ll help you fight for the compensation that you deserve. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!