A wrong-way car accident is not one of the most common types of collisions, but it is one of the most devastating. They can occur when a driver drives the wrong way on an exit or entrance ramp to the highway, crosses over a median on a highway, or drives the wrong way on a one-way road. In the majority of these collisions, someone is seriously injured or killed. In Rhode Island, victims may be entitled to compensation for their injuries from the at-fault driver or other negligent party. 
How Motorists Cause Wrong-Way Accidents
The majority of wrong-way wrecks are caused by driver error. These crashes tend to be more catastrophic because the vehicles are often traveling at a faster speed, and there is no time for the negligent driver or the victims to react. The vehicles often collide head-on, increasing the likelihood that victims will suffer life-altering injuries such as brain trauma, paralysis, broken bones, disfigurement, or death. Common reasons that individuals drive the wrong way include:
- Drunk driving or intoxication caused by drug use
- Drowsy driving
- Distracted driving
- Confusion that results when drivers are not familiar with the roads in the area
Road Defects That Lead to Wrong-Way Auto Collisions
Not all wrong-way accidents are caused by drivers. In some cases, a perfectly sober person who is driving carefully can drive the wrong way on a highway exit or entrance ramp because of road defects. Some of these problems that lead to wrong-way accidents include:
- Poorly marked ramps
- Improper ramp design
- Insufficient signs or missing signs
- Poor lighting
- Heavy foliage
When a road defect is the cause of a wreck, the case can be complex because the negligent party could be a municipality or other government agency.
Have You Been Injured In A Car Accident?
If you've been hurt in a car accident you need to speak to an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Warwick office directly at 401.946.3200 to schedule your free consultation. We help accident victims in Providence, Warwick and all areas of Rhode Island.
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