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Common Causes of Wrong-Way Driving Accidents

Wrong-way driving accidents are among the most common and devastating accidents on our roads today.

Imagine driving home from work, and suddenly another driver appears from nowhere and drives straight towards you. It may sound absurd. However, wrong-way driving accidents happen.

Let’s cover what you need to know about wrong-way driving accidents, including what causes them and safety tips to prevent these accidents.

wrong way road sign

Common Causes of Wrong Way Driving Accidents

As mentioned earlier, wrong-way driving accidents are pretty common, accounting for about 300 to 400 deaths every year. This begs the question: What causes wrong-way driving accidents? Here are a few common causes.

Driving Under the Influence

Drugs and alcohol impair the driver’s judgment, making it easy for them to veer into the wrong side of the road. In some cases, the driver may be drunk and fail to realize they’re driving in the wrong direction. Unfortunately, this often results in a head-on collision with other vehicles that can sometimes be fatal.

Poor Road Conditions

Some roads are in such bad condition that drivers have to drive in the other lane for a while before pulling back into their lane. Other roads may lack specific elements that help keep every driver in their lane. For instance, some roads don’t have guardrails, proper lighting, or medians to indicate the different lanes. As a result, drivers may unknowingly drive on the wrong side and cause an accident.

Distracted Driving

A quick glance at your mobile phone to check your inbox could have you veering into the wrong side of the road. Therefore you should avoid texting, answering your phone, or fixing your hair while on the wheel. Also, keep your eyes on the road, paying keen attention to what side of the road you’re driving on.

Multi-Car Accidents

Multiple cars crashing can lead to a pile-up of crashed vehicles. Some of the vehicles in a pile may be pushed to the other side of the road, and oncoming vehicles may not see the vehicle until it’s too late.

Safety Tips for Avoiding Wrong-Way Driving Accidents

Like all accidents, wrong-way driving accidents can be avoided if drivers take the proper precautions. Here are a few safety tips to sidestep wrong-way driving accidents.

  • Keep a long visual horizon when driving on the road. Try to see as far as you can so that you can spot an oncoming vehicle from a distance
  • Avoid all distractions
  • Drive on the furthest lane to the right when driving at night. Do your best to avoid the left lane unless you’re planning to pass the vehicle in front of you.

Adhering to these safety tips will go a long way in preventing and avoiding wrong-way driving accidents.

St. Louis Car Accident Attorneys

Despite driving safely, you may find yourself involved in a wrong-way driving accident due to the negligence of another driver. Call The Hoffmann Law Firm 24/7 to learn more about your legal right to compensation after an accident. Our St. Louis car accident lawyers have 25 years of experience and can evaluate your case for free.


Free Consultation with a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer

Don’t talk to an insurance claims adjuster before speaking with The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. We can help you avoid making statements that may affect the outcome of your case. The consultation is free; you don’t pay unless we get you money!

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Updated: January 26, 2022