Few driving experiences are as terrifying as seeing headlights rushing toward you in your lane. Wrong-way accidents often happen suddenly, leaving victims little to no time to react. These collisions are typically violent, traumatic, and lead to severe injuries or fatalities. In Fort Lauderdale, with its network of one-way streets, highways, and tourist-heavy traffic, the risk of a car driving the wrong way accident is a serious concern.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a wrong way car accident, knowing what to do next is critical. This guide outlines the most important steps to take after a crash and explains how a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer can help you pursue justice.
What Is a Wrong-Way Car Accident?
A wrong-way car accident occurs when a vehicle travels in the opposite direction of traffic and crashes into another vehicle, usually resulting in a head-on collision. These accidents are especially dangerous because they often occur at high speeds and give drivers minimal time to avoid impact.
Wrong-way crashes are typically caused by:
- Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs)
- Distracted or drowsy driving
- Confusion at poorly marked roadways or exits
- Older drivers with impaired vision or judgment
The term car accident wrong way driver describes the motorist who enters a road or highway going in the wrong direction, creating a highly dangerous situation for others.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Wrong-Way Collision
1. Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your safety comes first. If anyone is injured, request emergency medical assistance immediately. Some injuries may take hours or days to show symptoms, even if you feel fine.
2. Remain at the Scene and Stay Calm
Never leave the accident scene. If it is safe to do so, remain in your vehicle and wait for first responders to arrive. Avoid arguing with the other driver.
3. Document the Scene
Use your phone to take photos of:
- Vehicle damage
- Skid marks and debris
- Road signs and traffic signals
- Weather or lighting conditions
This visual evidence proves the other driver was going the wrong way.
4. Collect Driver and Witness Information
Get all involved parties’ names, contact information, license plate numbers, and insurance details. If any witnesses were present, ask for their contact info as well.
5. File a Police Report
Ensure the police report documents that the other vehicle was traveling the wrong way. This detail is crucial for your insurance claim and any potential lawsuit.
6. Seek Medical Treatment
Get a full medical evaluation even if you feel uninjured. Some severe conditions, like internal bleeding or whiplash, may not present symptoms right away.
Who Is Liable in a Wrong-Way Driving Accident?
In most cases, the car accident wrong-way driver is liable. Driving the wrong way is a direct violation of traffic laws and is considered negligent behavior. However, in some instances, additional parties may share responsibility, such as:
- A city or state agency that failed to post proper signage
- A bar or restaurant that overserved an intoxicated driver
A Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer can identify all liable parties, gather evidence, and ensure your case is thoroughly prepared.
Why You Need a Car Accident Attorney in Fort Lauderdale
Working with a car accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale is essential when pursuing compensation. These cases often involve high-impact injuries and large insurance claims. Your attorney will:
- Collect and preserve evidence
- Obtain the official accident report
- Work with medical experts and accident reconstruction specialists
- Handle communications with insurance companies
- Fight for full compensation, including future medical costs, pain and suffering, and lost wages
At Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, we have the resources and experience to take on even the most complex wrong-way driving cases in South Florida.
Hit by a Wrong-Way Driver? Wolf & Pravato Is Ready to Help
If you were injured by a car driving the wrong way, you deserve strong legal representation. At the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, we have recovered millions for accident victims, including a $3.85 million settlement and multiple six-figure results. We offer personalized attention and aggressive advocacy for every client.
Call us today at (844) 643-7200 to schedule your free, no-obligation case evaluation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
FAQs
- What is a wrong-way car accident?
It is a crash caused by a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction of traffic. - Who is at fault in a wrong-way driving crash?
The wrong-way driver is typically found liable due to violating traffic laws. - Should I call the police after a wrong-way accident?
Yes, always contact law enforcement to file an official report documenting the incident. - Can I sue the wrong-way driver for damages?
Yes, if you were injured, you have the right to file a personal injury claim for compensation. - How much does a personal injury lawyer cost in Fort Lauderdale?
Wolf & Pravato works on contingency, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.
