How to Avoid Wrong-Way Drivers in Arizona
In the greater Phoenix area, just one out of 10,000 crashes was caused by a wrong-way driver, making these crashes fairly uncommon. Thankfully, this means that most people will never experience a wrong-way crash.
However, these accidents are more likely than any other to cause serious injuries or fatalities. Since more than 36,000 injuries in 2018 were the result of car accidents in Arizona, several of them wrong-way incidents, drivers must be aware of these serious crashes.
If you’ve already been involved in an auto accident in Arizona, contact our Phoenix or Mesa car accident attorneys at ELG. Our team of auto accident lawyers in Arizona is here to help you safeguard your legal rights with a no-hassle consultation today.
Common Causes of Wrong-Way Driving in Arizona
Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of wrong-way accidents, particularly texting while driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other medication is another common cause of wrong-way driving. If you’re on medication, verify with your doctor that it is safe to continue operating your vehicle. And always make sure that you have a designated driver if you’ve been drinking. Don’t drink and drive, even if you’ve only had one drink.
From speeding to tailgating or weaving in and out of lines, reckless driving can also lead to wrong-way incidents. If another driver on the road is behaving aggressively, avoid responding in kind. Stay cool and collected when you drive, and report any wrong-way drivers you see on the highway. Preventing injuries to yourself and to others is the most important step. Once you’re safe, call the police. Let the authorities know that a wrong-way driver is driving in your area.
How to Avoid Wrong-Way Driving in Arizona
Even as government officials work aggressively to eliminate wrong-way accidents, they still occur. But you can help stop wrong-way drivers by driving defensively and reporting impaired, reckless, or otherwise dangerous drivers.
First, holding wrong-way drivers accountable by reporting them when you see them is vital. Aside from reporting wrong-way incidents to authorities, take pictures, record audio, turn on your dash camera if you have one, and file a police report. Furthermore, remember to take note of the injuries and call the authorities as soon as possible.
Finally, you should contact your attorney. If you’ve sustained injuries in a wrong-way crash, protect your legal rights. Talking to an attorney sooner rather than later will help keep the incident and your injuries fresh in your mind. This will increase your chances of receiving compensation for your injuries, or from your losses in a wrongful death suit if you’ve lost a family member.
Car Accident Lawyer in Phoenix
Knowing how to prevent wrong-way car accidents is important. If you drive defensively on the road, you decrease your chances of an accident. But if you sustain injuries in a crash with a wrong-way driver, contact your auto accident attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer can work as your liaison with insurance companies and help you maneuver the facts of your case, allowing you to recover from your accident.
If you’ve been injured in a car wreck caused by wrong-way driving, contact our Phoenix auto accident lawyers at ELG today. Call us at (623) 877-3600 for a no-obligation free consultation and legal aid.
