Why Are Wrong-Way Crashes on the Rise in Massachusetts?
Published in Car Accidents on July 20, 2023
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Millions travel on Massachusetts’ roads every year, commuting to work, visiting loved ones, or exploring the state’s beautiful landscapes. However, amid the bustling traffic and daily commotion, more accidents can occur, including an increase in the number of wrong-way crashes in recent years, largely attributed to drunk driving elderly drivers, according to the National Transportation Safety Board. Unfortunately, wrong-way collisions can result in significant injuries and often leave victims and their families financially overwhelmed.
If you have been injured by a wrong-way driver in Massachusetts, an experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue compensation for your injuries. At Sweeney Merrigan Personal Injury Lawyers, our attorneys have over 45 years of experience helping accident victims stand up to insurance companies and recover damages for their physical, emotional, and financial losses. To learn more about how our talented team of car accident attorneys can help you, schedule a free consultation by calling (617) 391-9001 or completing our contact form today.
3 Reasons Wrong-Way Collisions Are on the Rise in Massachusetts
Although wrong-way crashes can have various causes, some are more common than others. Three of the top reasons wrong-way collisions occur in Massachusetts include the following:
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol impairment can severely impact cognitive function, motor skills, and judgment. This can lead to drunk drivers mistakenly turning the wrong way down a one-way street or ramp or even veering from their lane into oncoming traffic. Because a high blood alcohol concentration also significantly slows reaction times, these drivers are often unable to stop, swerve, or correct their behavior to avoid accidents before it is too late.
Elderly Drivers
Many adults tend to drive less as they age. Many can suffer from vision and hearing changes that make driving more challenging. These impairments, among others, put elderly drivers at risk of making critical errors behind the wheel and causing wrong-way car crashes. Although limiting a loved one’s ability to drive can be difficult, it may be wise to have a conversation with your elderly relative if you are concerned about their driving habits.
Driving Alone
Many wrong-way crashes can be prevented with a passenger helping the driver navigate. When another person is present, they can quickly alert the driver before they make a fatal mistake. Additionally, fatigue can be just as impairing as drugs or alcohol. When drivers have a companion, it is easier for one to rest while the other drives, avoiding potential accidents.
How Can a Skilled Car Accident Attorney Help Me?
After suffering injuries in a wrong-way accident, many victims are hurt, confused, and unsure where to turn for relief. Fortunately, a skilled car accident attorney can help you pursue justice for your injuries and other losses. Some of the many ways a seasoned attorney from Sweeney Merrigan Personal Injury Lawyers can assist you include the following:
- Investigating the cause and aftermath of your accident
- Interviewing eyewitnesses
- Negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf
- Ensuring all paperwork is filed promptly
- Preparing your case for trial
- Updating you through every step of the legal process
- Fighting aggressively for your rights and interests
When you choose one of our experienced attorneys, you can trust them to advocate tirelessly for the maximum compensation you are owed.
Speak to a Knowledgeable Car Accident Attorney at Sweeney Merrigan Personal Injury Lawyers
At Sweeney Merrigan Personal Injury Lawyers, our renowned legal team understands the stress and frustrations you face. We aim to make the legal process as straightforward as possible as we handle every detail of your claim. Our founding partners, J. Tucker Merrigan and Peter M. Merrigan, are award-winning trial attorneys who devote 100% of their practices to litigation. They have a proven track record of achieving successful outcomes for their clients and have recovered millions of dollars in damages.
To learn more about how our team can help you, schedule a free consultation today by calling (617) 391-9001 or completing our contact form.