Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog
Wrong way accidents are one of the deadliest causes of collision on the nation’s highways. Many of these accidents occur near on-or off-ramps, where improper signage can mislead drivers; however, a substantial number of the accidents have also involved drunk drivers or drivers under the influence of narcotics or prescription medications. Among the most recent tragedies, 11 people died on a February Sunday in two separate highway collisions—both involving wrong way accidents. The accidents occurred on opposite sides of the country, but both have confounded law enforcement officials who are seeking to understand and prevent these fatal collisions.
Deadly car accidents involving wrong way accidents are making headlines nationwide. Law enforcement agencies and other safety advocates have continued to study the cause of wrong way collisions, because they pose such a significant risk to motorists. Our car accident attorneys in Fort Lauderdale are committed to providing sound counsel to victims and families of auto collisions. In addition to helping uncover the cause of any accident, we will also work aggressively to maximize compensation for victims and families.
The Florida accident resulted in the death of 5 victims after a Ford Expedition was traveling north on I-275. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the SUV collided head-on with a Hyundai Sonata after 2 a.m., killing all 4 passengers. Immediately after impact, the SUV was engulfed in flames and the other vehicle was significantly damaged by fire. The young victims in the Sonata were all members of the Sigma Beta Rho fraternity and attending school at the University of South Florida in Tampa. The driver of the SUV was also killed, but has not yet been identified due to the damage caused by the fire. Law enforcement officers are still investigating whether alcohol played a role in the crash.
A similar accident took place across the country on a highway east of Los Angeles, California. According to the California Highway Patrol, six people were killed in the early morning hours when a motorist in a Chevrolet Camaro was heading the wrong way and collided with a Ford Explorer on the 60 Freeway in Diamond Bar California. The Ford Explorer was then hit by another oncoming vehicle, a Ford Freestyle.
The Camaro was driven by a 21-year-old woman who suffered major injuries, including a broken femur and a ruptured bladder, but was arrested at the time of the accident for suspected drunk driving and causing great bodily injury and death, and manslaughter. According to state patrol, the collision caused the death of two passengers in the Camaro as well as four others from the other two vehicles. The state patrol logged the 21-year-old drunk driver at traveling more than 100 miles per hour on the wrong side of the highway before the collision.
Wrong way collisions are tragic accidents that often result in catastrophic and fatal injuries to passengers and other motorists on the road. In the event of a wrong way collision, it is important to consult with an experienced advocate who can review your case, determine the cause and aggressively pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, long-term care needs, and financial losses resulting from wrongful death.
Call Freeman Injury Law — 1-800-561-7777 for a free appointment to discuss your rights.
More Blog Entries:
Speed a Major Contributing Factor in Coral Springs Car Accidents, Dec. 30, 2013, Miramar Car Accident Lawyer Blog
Teens Face Deadliest Risks for Car Accidents in South Florida, Feb. 20, 2014, Hollywood Car Accident Lawyer Blog