The state of Texas is known for many things including, the Alamo, barbecue and live music. Unfortunately, the state holds another distinction that is as dangerous as it is frustrating: According to the American Automobile Association or AAA, Texas leads the country in fatal wrong-way car accidents.
Wrong-way crashes occur when a vehicle travels in the wrong direction, usually on a divided, multi-lane highway. Those involved in wrong-way motor vehicle accidents suffer severe injuries or die because most of these crashes occur head-on and at dangerous speeds.
Some statistics to consider
Between 2015 and 2018, 2008 deaths occurred in the U.S. from wrong-way vehicle accidents. Other troubling facts about these accidents include:
- In Texas, wrong-way crash fatalities increased by 29% between 2015 and 2018.
- Texas saw the highest number of country-wide wrong-way crash deaths from 2015 through 2018.
- Motorists 70 years of age or older have a higher risk of driving the wrong way than younger drivers.
- Six out of 10 wrong-way crashes in the studied period involved drivers impaired by alcohol.
Currently, the installation of ignition interlock devices remains the most effective countermeasure against drunk driving and alcohol-involved wrong-way crashes. However, a driver must first be convicted of driving drunk before a court will order an interlock device. In other words, until drunk drivers face a DUI arrest and conviction, they will likely continue to drive while intoxicated.
Those who survive a wrong-way motor vehicle accident face a long path to recovery in most cases and will incur massive medical bills along the way. However, learning more about vehicle accidents and compensation laws in Texas can help you find the ideal legal solution for your negligent harm.