There are many hazards when a person utilizes California roadways. Many of these hazards can be anticipated and avoided by a focused, defensive driver. However, there is little that drivers can do to avoid car accidents caused by a wrong-way driver. Unfortunately, one person was recently killed and three other injured in such an accident.
There were apparently reports made about a driver headed north in the southbound lanes of a California highway at approximately 3 a.m. one morning in mid-December. The car allegedly headed in the wrong direction was driven by a 22-year-old woman. Reports indicate that her vehicle struck a southbound vehicle head-on.
Unfortunately the 26-year-old female driver of the second vehicle died as a result of the injuries she suffered in the accident. Two passengers in her vehicle also suffered serious injuries. The driver of the car believed to have been headed the wrong way also suffered injuries serious enough to warrant transportation for medical care by helicopter. Prior to being taken from the scene of the accident, the surviving driver was charged with driving under the influence.
The aftermaths of serious car accidents such as this one are often difficult to fathom. The family members of the deceased victim will have to cope with the emotional implications of their loss while dealing with loss of income and funeral expenses. Additionally, those injured may face a long recovery, requiring them to miss work while medical bills accumulate. While not necessary, a conviction regarding the criminal charges against the surviving driver could help support a claim of negligence in a California civil court, potentially resulting in an award of damages that will relieve the stress created by the financial ramifications of the accident.
Source: keyt.com, “Wrong Way Driver Causes Fatal Accident in Paso Robles”, Claire Anderson, Dec. 16, 2015