Wrong-way accidents happen when a vehicle travels in the wrong direction against the normal traffic flow, often resulting in head-on collisions. For example, a vehicle traveling in the left lane in the opposite direction is a danger for those following the rules of the road. These wrong-way car accidents are among the most dangerous types of car accidents on our roads. If you’ve been involved in a wrong way driving accident in Kentucky, you need experienced representation to protect your rights and seek fair compensation.

Rhoads & Rhoads, a trusted law firm with deep roots in Kentucky, has the experience to handle your wrong-way accident case. Our team understands the complexities of wrong-way crashes and will fight tirelessly to see that you receive the compensation you deserve.

For more information about our services in car accident cases or to schedule your free consultation, call us at 888-709-9329.

Compensation for Wrong Direction Accidents

Wrong-way crashes often lead to severe injuries and significant property damage.

Wrong-way car accident victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical bills (current and future)
• Future medical expenses
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Rehabilitation costs
• In cases of wrongful death, funeral expenses, and loss of companionship

At Rhoads & Rhoads, we work diligently to assess the full extent of your damages and pursue maximum compensation in these serious or fatal wrong-way accidents. We fight for you, not just in court, but in every interaction, championing your rights against large companies.

Our experienced attorneys understand Kentucky traffic laws and how they apply to wrong-way driving accidents, seeing that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Causes of Wrong-Way Car Accidents

Several factors contribute to wrong-way driving accidents. Understanding these causes is crucial for head-on collision prevention and determining liability.

Common causes of wrong-way driving accidents include:

Drunk Driving or Impaired Driving

Alcohol impairment is a leading cause of wrong-way collisions. When an intoxicated driver operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol content that is over the legal limit, they may have impaired judgment and fail to recognize road signs or exit ramps, leading them to be a wrong-way driver on the wrong side of the road.

Poor Visibility

Nighttime driving, adverse weather conditions, or inadequate lighting can make it difficult for drivers to see road signs and markings, potentially causing them to enter a highway in the opposite direction causing wrong-way collisions.

Confusing Road Design

Lack of proper signage, such as a poorly designed or inadequately marked exit ramp, one-way street, or highway entrance can confuse drivers, especially those unfamiliar with the area, leading to wrong-way driving accidents.

Distracted Driving

Drivers distracted by mobile phones, GPS devices, or other factors may inadvertently enter a road in the wrong direction causing a head-on collision.

Elderly or Confused Drivers

Some older drivers or those with cognitive impairments may become disoriented and accidentally drive in the wrong direction.

Faulty Steering System

In rare cases, vehicle malfunctions can cause a driver to lose control and veer into oncoming traffic in the wrong lane, causing a wrong-way crash.

Intentional Acts

Although uncommon, some wrong-way driving incidents result from deliberate actions of wrong-way drivers, such as attempts to evade law enforcement by driving on the wrong side of the road.

The National Transportation Safety Board has studied these causes to help prevent wrong-way accidents and alert wrong-way drivers.

Understanding the cause of a wrong-way collision is crucial for determining liability and seeking compensation.

Common Injuries in Wrong-Way Crashes

Wrong-way car crashes, especially those resulting in head-on crashes, often lead to injuries due to the combined force of two vehicles traveling in opposite directions.

Common injuries include:

1. Traumatic Brain Injury: The impact of a head-on collision can cause the brain to collide with the skull, leading to concussions or more severe brain damage.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of a wrong-way crash can result in damage to the spinal cord, potentially causing partial or complete paralysis.
3. Broken Bones: Fractures are common in wrong-way accidents, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
4. Internal Injuries: The impact can cause damage to internal organs, leading to internal bleeding or organ failure.
5. Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The sudden stop/change in direction can cause severe neck and back injuries.
6. Burns: If the collision results in a vehicle fire, occupants may suffer from burns of varying degrees.
7. Psychological Trauma: Survivors of wrong-way accidents often experience emotional distress or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

These injuries can have long-lasting effects on a victim’s life, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

What Should I Do After a Wrong-Way Accident?

If you’ve been involved in a wrong-way accident, taking the right steps immediately after the incident can significantly impact your ability to seek compensation:

1. Check for safety: If possible, move to a safe location away from other vehicles to alert drivers and prevent further highway accidents.
2. Call 911: Report the wrong-way collision to the police and request medical assistance if needed.
3. Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
4. Document the scene: If it’s safe, take photos of the accident scene, including the positions of the wrong-way vehicles and any visible injuries.
5. Gather information: Collect contact and insurance information from all parties involved, as well as contact details for any witnesses.
6. Avoid being misled or admitting fault: Be cautious about what you say at the accident scene.
7. Report to your insurance company: Notify your insurance provider about the accident.
8. Keep records: Maintain a file of all accident-related documents.
9. Contact a lawyer: Reach out to an experienced wrong-way driving accident attorney like those at Rhoads & Rhoads for a free consultation.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer for Wrong-Way Accidents in Kentucky

If you or a loved one has been involved in a wrong-way driver accident in Kentucky, don’t face the aftermath alone. The experienced team at Rhoads & Rhoads is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Our understanding of Kentucky traffic safety laws, combined with our commitment to our clients, makes us the ideal choice for your wrong-way accident case and fatal crashes.

Several factors contribute to such incidents, including drunk driving, poor visibility, and confusion on one-way streets or exit ramps. Regardless of the cause, if a driver fails to travel in the correct direction and causes an accident, they may be held liable for the resulting damages.

Don’t let the statute of limitations expire on your claim. Our attorneys can review the details of your case, explain your legal options, and help you determine the best course of action.

At Rhoads & Rhoads, we’re committed to helping you seek compensation and get your life back on track after such an accident. No matter the type of personal injury, we’re here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve as you travel the road ahead.

Leveraging 50 years of legal experience in Western Kentucky, we provide knowledgeable counsel. Call us now at 888-709-9329 or fill out our online form to schedule your free case evaluation about your wrong-way accidents.