Arizona has battled a notable wrong-way driving problem on its freeways for years, prompting the state to invest in detection systems and warning technology. Wrong-way crashes are among the deadliest types of collisions because they are typically head-on and occur at high combined speeds, leaving little chance to react or avoid impact.
A Persistent and Deadly Problem
When a wrong-way driver causes a crash, the injuries are frequently catastrophic or fatal, and the victims are entirely blameless.
Why Wrong-Way Crashes Happen
The leading cause of wrong-way driving is impairment, alcohol or drugs that leave a driver confused about direction. Others include elderly or medically impaired drivers, confusing interchange design, poor signage or lighting, and drivers unfamiliar with an area. Most wrong-way crashes happen at night.
Understanding the cause matters for liability, because it can point to additional responsible parties beyond the wrong-way driver alone.
Claims Beyond the Wrong-Way Driver
The wrong-way driver is obviously at fault, but their insurance may be inadequate for catastrophic injuries, and impaired drivers are sometimes underinsured. That makes other avenues critical. If the driver was drunk, Arizona's dram shop law may allow a claim against a bar or restaurant that over-served them. Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may also be a vital source of recovery.
In rare cases, a dangerous road design or signage failure could implicate a government entity, raising the short notice-of-claim deadline.
After a Wrong-Way Crash
These are devastating cases, often involving severe injury or the loss of a loved one. Preserve the police report and any evidence of impairment and its source. Identify all potential sources of recovery, the driver, a possible dram shop defendant, and your own UM/UIM coverage. A compassionate free review can help victims and families pursue every available avenue of compensation.
Have questions about your own situation? Get a free, confidential case review. You pay no fee unless you win. Call 973-566-5599.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Arizona attorney.