A multiple-vehicle accident in Belmont County recently resulted in the deaths of five individuals. Emergency workers received a call regarding a wrong-way driver and minutes later received notification of an accident. According to reports, the collision occurred when the vehicle traveling the wrong-way struck a vehicle that was headed in the other direction. During the accident, one of the vehicles became fully engulfed in flames. Law enforcement later stated that alcohol is believed to have been a factor in the accident. Additional details about the collision, however, are still under investigation.
It can be frightening to spot a wrong-way driver headed toward you. According to the United States Department of Transportation, approximately 350 individuals lose their lives each year in the U.S. as a result of wrong-way driving accidents. Even though accidents of this kind are not common, they are one of the deadliest types of motor vehicle accidents. To avoid having your life changed in a wrong-way accident, consider the following important safety strategies.
Anticipate Obstacles Ahead
While driving, you should focus on what lies ahead of you. This means anticipating any dangers that might arise suddenly. Rather than focusing only on your lane, you should focus on your complete surroundings. By doing this, you greatly increase the chances that you will be able to spot a wrong-way driver in time to get out of the way.
Exercise the Highest Caution During Nights and Weekends
Data reveals that nearly three-quarters of wrong-way accidents occur at night. Other data reveals that wrong-way accidents occur more often on weekends than on weekdays. Consider reducing the amount of time you spend on the road during these hours. If you must drive at these times, exercise the highest degree of caution.
Drive in the Right Lane
Most often, wrong-way drivers enter the incorrect lane of traffic by the left lane. By traveling in the right lane, you can keep your vehicle as far away from a wrong-way vehicle as possible. In some cases, the wrong-way vehicle might even strike an object before it collides with you.
Pull Over
If you spot a wrong-way driver on the road, you should pull over to the right shoulder of the road as soon as it is safe to do so. In most cases, you will not have enough time to fully brake. Instead, it is better to swerve out of the way and onto the right shoulder to avoid a collision.
Call Me Today
I understand just how frightening it can be to spot a driver who is barreling down the road toward you. That is why I remain committed to accidents victims after being injured in wrong-way car accidents. Call me, and remember that throughout the case I’ll remain dedicated to fighting for you. While you focus on your health and well-being, I’ll Make Them Pay!®.