The U.S. Department of Transportation says that about 300 to 400 people die each year in crashes caused by drivers traveling the wrong way on the road. These collisions make up only a relatively small share of all traffic deaths, but they are extremely serious and often lead to death or major injuries.
You cannot prevent every crash, and sometimes a wrong-way accident truly is a mistake. Still, there are simple steps you can take to lower your risk of being involved in a wrong-way driving accident in Virginia Beach.
If you need legal help after being hurt or losing a loved one in a crash caused by a wrong-way driver, contact an experienced Virginia Beach car accident lawyer at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp today.
How Common Are Wrong-Way Accidents?
Wrong-way collisions can happen when a motorist, either on purpose or quite by mistake, goes against the flow of traffic. The National Transportation Safety Board says these crashes are not particularly common, accounting for only about 3% of all traffic collisions on high-speed divided highways and roughly 1% of all vehicular fatalities.
Wrong-way crashes are, sadly, far more dangerous than most other accidents. They often turn into head-on crashes, which are usually severe and can easily cause life-threatening injuries. In fact, one Virginia-based study found that wrong-way crashes on highways were 27 times more likely to cause a death compared to other types of collisions.
What Causes Wrong-Way Driving?
Wrong-way driving accidents can be caused by a variety of factors. Studies conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board, as well as some individual states, have managed to pinpoint some common causes:
Driving Under the Influence
Research shows that more than 60% of wrong-way crashes happen because the driver was drunk. Drugs can also play a role, but this happens far less often than alcohol-related wrong-way driving.
Age
Most wrong-way drivers are between 20 and 50 years old. But after age 70, there are actually more wrong-way drivers involved in deadly wrong-way crashes than drivers going the correct way. Younger drivers are also more likely to be under the influence than older drivers.
Day and Time
Nearly 80% of wrong-way crashes happen between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., and almost 60% happen on weekends. During these times, drivers are often less alert, and it is harder to see the road clearly.
Roadway Configuration
Research shows that most wrong-way accidents occur when a driver enters a freeway through an exit ramp. Sometimes the signs are hard to see, or the layout of the roadway is confusing. This can lead drivers onto the wrong ramp and in the wrong direction.
Distracted Driving and Driver Fatigue
Just like with other crashes, being tired or not paying attention can also cause wrong-way accidents.
How Can I Avoid a Wrong-Way Accident in Virginia Beach?
While not every accident can be prevented, there are some steps you can take that can help lower your odds of being involved in a wrong-way crash.
Keep to the Right
About 78% of wrong-way collisions happen in the lane closest to the median. Wrong-way drivers usually stay in the left lane. If you drive in the right lane, you may be farther away from a wrong-way driver and a little safer.
Pay Attention
Everyone knows you should watch the road, but paying attention means more than just looking at the car right in front of you. Try to look farther ahead and scan the whole road as you drive. This gives you more time to react if a wrong-way driver appears, if a crash happens ahead, or if there is any danger on the road.
Be Cautious
Research shows that about 70% of wrong-way crashes happen between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., and many also happen on weekends. Be extra careful and remain alert when driving during these times.
Limit Distractions
Staying alert is one of the best ways to avoid a crash with a wrong-way driver or any other kind of accident. Never text while driving. If you need to use your phone, use a hands-free option or pull over somewhere safe. Changing the radio or turning around to talk to people in the back seat can also distract you, so try to avoid doing those things while driving.
Pull Off onto the Shoulder
If you see a wrong-way driver coming toward you, move toward the shoulder as quickly and safely as you can. Because most wrong-way drivers use the left lane, the shoulder is often the safest place to go. You may only have a few seconds to react, so it is usually safer to steer out of the way rather than hit the brakes.
Notify Local Law Enforcement
Call 911 and report the wrong-way driver right away. If you are hit by a wrong-way driver, focus on your safety and the safety of your passengers first. If you are physically able to do so, call 911 or ask an able-bodied person for help.
If you can safely get out of your car, move far away from the road. Try to get the names and contact information of any witnesses, as this can help both the police and you later if you decide to file a claim. Work with law enforcement and take as many photos and notes as you can about the scene and the damage to your vehicle.
Most importantly, take care of any medical needs first.
Discuss Your Case With a Virginia Beach Car Accident Lawyer
Wrong-way crashes often happen because a driver acted carelessly or made a serious mistake. Talking with an experienced Virginia Beach car accident lawyer at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp can help you understand your rights and learn what compensation you may be able to receive. If the insurance company will not offer a fair amount, we can take your case to trial, just like we did for a client who was hit by a drunk, wrong-way driver and won a jury verdict of $3.5 million.
If you were hurt, or if a loved one was killed, in a wrong-way crash in Virginia Beach or the surrounding area, call us at (833) 997-1774 or fill out the contact form on our website to set up a free consultation. We have offices in Virginia Beach, Hampton, Portsmouth, Norfolk, Suffolk, and Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.