Car accidents can happen in a variety of ways. While crashes in intersections and rear-end collisions that occur in heavy traffic are among the most common, wrong way accidents are the most deadly. A recent wrong way car accident in Portland that caused a three car pile-up and left one driver dead highlights the potential dangers.
Wrong Way Driver Killed, Other Motorists Seriously Injured In Portland Car Accident
A wrong way driver was recently killed after causing a car accident that impacted three other motorists. According to a September 22, 2020 KOIN News report, the crash happened shortly before 4:00 a.m. on Interstate 5. Police report that a 45-year-old Vancouver man was driving the wrong way, heading southbound in the northbound lane, when he hit another vehicle head on. The force of the collision ended up impacting a third driver on the road.
Unfortunately, the Vancouver man died at the scene, while the others involved were taken to local hospitals with serious injuries. The crash is the 33rd time this year that the Major Crash Team was activated and the victim represents the 36th traffic fatality.
Police were actually heading to the scene prior to the collision, having been warned about the wrong way driver by another motorist. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) advises that wrong way crashes are particularly common at night and in the early morning hours. They warn drivers to be alert during these times and to pull over immediately if they notice another motorist driving the wrong way or in any other erratic manner.
Common Causes of Wrong Way Car Accidents
Wrong way crashes are one of the least common types of car accidents but are among the most deadly. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) warns that they are responsible for roughly 400 traffic deaths each year and leave hundreds of thousands of motorists suffering serious personal injuries.
One of the biggest risks with wrong way crashes is that they increase the likelihood of head on collisions. They often occur on highways or interstates and as drivers typically fail to recognize their mistake until it is too late, speed is a frequent factor in making these collisions so deadly. Common causes of wrong way car accidents typically include:
- Lack of lighting or proper signage near highway exit or entrance ramps;
- Distracted driving, causing drivers to overlook traffic signs and signals;
- Drowsy driving and falling asleep behind the wheel;
- Driving under the influence, one of the most common reasons for wrong way crashes.
Let Us Help You Today
When the actions of other drivers on the road leave you suffering serious personal injuries, you can count on the Johnston Law Firm P.C. to help you get the compensation you are entitled to in a claim. To discuss your case, call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland car accident attorneys online and request a consultation today.