Small Town Service,
Big Firm Expertise.

Tips for avoiding wrong-way accidents

On Behalf of | Dec 2, 2022 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

Wrong-way accidents are rare when compared to other types of vehicle accidents. However, when they do happen, they most likely result in head-on collisions and deaths. They are the most serious type of motor vehicle collisions, but there are things you can do to prevent these accidents from happening.

The statistics are not promising for the wrong-way driver. The Foundation for Traffic Safety states that wrong-way drivers accounted for half of all deaths resulting from this type of collision between 2010 and 2018.

Things you can do to prevent a wrong-way accident:

  • Do not drive under the influence of alcohol.
  • Do not drive while under the influence of drugs; even some prescription drugs that may impair your body’s ability to respond normally in the event of an accident.
  • Make sure you truly can drive. Many of these accidents involve people over the age of 70, so it is essential that you take an honest assessment of your physical abilities as it relates to driving a motor vehicle.
  • Do not drive without a license or with an expired license. Studies suggest that these drivers represent a higher number of wrong-way drivers than people who drive lawfully.
  • Drive defensively and carefully. Do not use cell phones or other devices while driving. These devices are a frequent cause of vehicle accidents, especially with texting becoming more and more common.

While it is impossible to prevent all accidents, the above should help lower your chances of getting into one.

Making sure you have the physical ability to drive and following the law and traffic regulations in your state and county will go a long way in preventing a possible accident in the future.