How Common Are Wrecks Caused by Wrong-Way Drivers?
Many people think that driving on the wrong side of the road would be extremely uncommon. Unfortunately, this happens much more often than many people realize, especially in Texas. In fact, Texas leads the nation in deaths caused by wrong-way crashes. More than 635 people lost their lives in a recent year in Texas because of wrong-way drivers.
When a wrong-way accident is caused by a negligent driver, injured victims and their families may be able to recover compensation through a personal injury claim or wrongful death action. Getting the maximum amount of compensation for your claim may require the help of a skilled personal injury lawyer who can help protect your rights.
What Causes Wrong-Way Accidents in Texas?
According to the Federal Highway Administration, a wrong-way driving crash is defined as “one in which a vehicle traveling in a direction opposing the legal flow of traffic on a high-speed divided highway or access ramp collides with a vehicle traveling on the same roadway in the proper direction.”
These types of accidents happen for a number of reasons, including:
- Drug and alcohol use
- Distracted driving
- Lack of proper signage
- Poorly marked ramps
- Poor visibility
- Inexperienced drivers
- Drowsiness
- Drivers experiencing mental health conditions
Understanding the common causes of wrong-way accidents can help drivers stay alert and may also play a key role in determining liability if a crash occurs.
Who Is at Fault for Wrong-Way Crashes?
Most wrong-way accidents are caused by someone’s negligence. In most cases, the driver who is going the wrong way is at fault. However, there may be other parties who could be held responsible for your crash.
For instance, government entities and contractors who are responsible for signage, upkeep, and maintenance of roadways may also have legal responsibility for your accident.
Do I Need a Lawyer After a Wrong-Way Crash?
Yes, hiring a lawyer after a wrong-way accident can help ensure you are getting all the compensation you are owed. Unfortunately, many wrong-way crashes result in catastrophic injuries or even death. Cases involving serious injuries or death often have a substantial value, and getting a fair settlement without the help of a lawyer can be challenging.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you pursue maximum compensation for all your injuries, such as:
- Brain injuries
- Fractures and broken bones
- Head and neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Severe burns
- Internal bleeding
- Severe bruising or soft tissue damage
- Leg injuries
A skilled attorney can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you secure the full compensation you need to move forward after such a devastating accident.
What Happens if I am Partially Responsible for My Accident?
You may be wondering what happens to your claim if you share some of the fault for your accident. Thankfully, Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Under this rule, an injured victim who shares some of the responsibility for their accident can still recover compensation as long as they are less than 51% at fault.
If you are found to bear some of the responsibility for your accident, your recovery will be reduced by your portion of the fault. Imagine that you are found to be 25% at fault for your accident. You could still recover 75% of your damages from the at-fault driver. An experienced lawyer can help defend you against the tactics the insurance company may use to blame you for the accident.
Contact a Dallas Car Accident Lawyer at Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
At Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers, our experienced team can help ensure that the insurance company takes your claim seriously. While we are able to reach a fair settlement in most cases, we are never afraid to take your case to trial when the insurance company refuses to negotiate. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Dallas car accident lawyer.
We proudly serve in Dallas County and its surrounding areas:
Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers
1825 Market Center Blvd # 350, Dallas, TX 75207
Phone: (214) 556-8321
Hours Open: 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Dallas.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 32.7950252,-96.8241861
