Wrong Way Car Accidents In Miami: How To Reduce The Risks
Car accidents in Miami can happen in a variety of ways, leaving drivers and their passengers suffering serious and life-threatening personal injuries. Wrong-way crashes are among the most deadly and seem to be increasing in our area. Our Miami car accident lawyer explains common contributing factors and how to reduce the risks.
Common Factors In Miami Wrong Way Car Accidents
A local man is grateful to have walked away from a major wrong-way car accident in Miami that had the potential to result in fatal injuries. According to an April 28, 2023 NBC Miami News report, the crash happened at roughly 5:00 a.m. on the Florida Turnpike, in Northwest Miami-Dade.
The man was driving a pickup truck in the southbound lane and on his way to work when he noticed headlights rapidly approaching. Despite trying to dodge back and forth between lanes, the other motorist, who was driving a Chevrolet Camaro in the wrong lane, ended up crashing head-first into him. Fortunately, he suffered only minor injuries. The Camaro driver, however, fared less well. He ended up having to be cut out of his crushed vehicle and was taken to a local hospital, where he was listed in critical condition.
Wrong-way crashes are one of the most terrifying types of car accidents and for good reason. They are the most likely to result in fatal personal injuries for one or both drivers involved. They frequently happen during the late night or early morning hours. Factors that often contribute to these collisions include:
- Drowsy driving and falling asleep behind the wheel;
- Distracted driving, such as looking at cell phones or texting;
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
- Speeding;
- Adverse weather conditions, which decrease visibility.
Reducing Wrong Way Car Accidents Risks
Car accident statistics from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) indicate that the number of wrong-way crashes throughout the state has significantly increased in recent years. While they continue to be one of the least likely types of collisions to be involved in, they have the potential to cause the greatest amount of harm. They are also more likely to happen on major roads and interstates, such as the turnpike.
Increased traffic enforcement during peak hours for wrong-way collisions may help in apprehending reckless drivers before they have a chance to hurt others. Other steps FDOT is considering to reduce the risks include:
- Increasing signage near highway exits and entrance ramps, which may help prevent wrong-way car accidents involving tourists or others unfamiliar with the area;
- Increase lighting and lane markings on major roads throughout the state;
- Using wrong-way warning signs and signaling devices, which rely on sensors to determine when a driver is headed in the wrong direction.
Contact Our Miami Car Accident Lawyer
Wrong way car accidents in Miami can cause devastating harm. At Pita Weber Del Prado, we hold at-fault drivers accountable, helping victims and their families get compensation. To request a consultation, call 305-670-2889 or contact our Miami car accident lawyer online.
Sources:
nbcmiami.com/news/local/driver-is-happy-to-be-alive-after-wrong-way-crash-on-floridas-turnpike-in-miami-dade/3024019/
fdot.gov/traffic/teo-divisions.shtm/cav-ml-stamp/Wrong-Way-driving
