Long Beach Wrong Way Accident Attorney
Representing Victims of Wrong Way Drivers in Long Beach
Drivers can cause deadly crashes traveling the wrong way on high-speed divided highways. This type of collision is more common than you may suspect. On average, approximately 430 people are killed in the U.S. in wrong way accidents every year, as reported by the AAA Foundation. Although they occur less frequently than other types of crashes, wrong way accidents are more likely to cause serious or fatal injuries.
Where Are Wrong Way Accidents Likely to Occur in California?
During a six-month period in a recent year, five fatal wrong way collisions killed 16 people on Sacramento area freeways. In that same time period, four fatal wrong way crashes in the San Diego area killed eight more people, as stated by the California Department of Transportation (CA DOT). In that year, 313 reported wrong way drivers in the Sacramento region caused 11 collisions that resulted in injury or death.
- Many roads in California are designated for travel in one direction only. When some streets in an area are one-way, while others are two-way, drivers can get confused, particularly if they are unfamiliar with the roads.
- Drivers sometimes mistakenly enter an exit ramp to get on a freeway, so they are traveling in the opposite direction of oncoming traffic.
- Wrong way accidents can happen when drivers make U-turns on a main road or use emergency turnarounds to make U-turns after missing exit ramps.
- Most wrong way collisions occur in the left-hand lane, closest to the median.
- Wrong way crashes are more common at night (between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.) and on the weekends.
What Acts of Negligence and Circumstances Can Lead to Wrong Way Crashes?
- Alcohol impairment is a major contributing factor to wrong way accidents. Alcohol was found to be involved in 60% of wrong-way drivers in a study conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
- Speeding, aggressive driving, and dangerous maneuvers can lead to loss of control of the vehicle and wrong way crashes.
- Distracted driving contributes to many motor vehicles accidents today, including wrong way collisions.
- Older drivers are more likely to be involved in wrong accidents than drivers in other age groups.
- Road conditions, such as poor visibility, construction zones, or improper or missing road signs can also lead to wrong way crashes.
How Can Wrong Way Crashes Impact Victims?
Wrong way accidents are some of the most devastating collisions on the roads. They often cause fatal or catastrophic injuries, with life-altering consequences for victims and their families. Common injuries in wrong way crashes include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Internal organ damage
- Fractured bones
- Crush injuries
- Amputation
- Death
What Types of Compensation Are Available After a Long Beach Wrong Way Accident?
Compensation after a wrong way collision caused by someone else’s negligence will depend on the circumstances of your particular case. Auto accident victims in Long Beach may be entitled to pursue compensation for economic and noneconomic damages, such as:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages or earnings
- Loss of future earning potential
- Property damage
- Permanent impairment
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Loss of quality of life
If you have been seriously injured or lost a loved one in a Long Beach wrong-way crash that was someone else’s fault, contact The Law Firm of Joseph H. Low IV as soon as possible, to stay within the legal timeframe. Our Long Beach auto accident lawyer may be able to help you recover compensation for your losses.
Mr. Low is a trial lawyer with more than 20 years of experience, and a trial lawyer who is professional and persuasive in the courtroom. We have a successful track record, winning multi-million dollar settlements and awards for our clients. Call us at (562) 901-0840 or toll-free at (888) 454-5569 to schedule a free consultation.