In just the first week of 2024, there have already been 11 fatal crashes in Central Florida, three of which involved wrong-way drivers.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Central Florida has had an issue with these kind of collisions for a long time.
At least six significant collisions involving drivers traveling the wrong way have been covered by Eyewitness News in the past three months; every one of these crashes had fatalities except one.
According to the Florida Department of Transportation, new technology is still being implemented, including camera detection systems that instantly notify law enforcement when cars are driving the wrong way and LED-highlighted wrong-way signs. In addition, if a wrong-way driver is identified, the system—officially named the Wrong Way Vehicle Detection System—automatically initiates message board notifications on roadways.
Our Florida Car Accident Attorneys at Whittel & Melton want to encourage all drivers to practice responsible driving as we get further into 2024. Most drivers that drive the wrong way are distracted, impaired, tired, or just unaware of their surroundings – all of which are extremely dangerous when behind the wheel of a car.
What should a driver do if they see a wrong-way driver alert?
- Slow down.
- Proceed with extreme caution and try to exit the interstate or move to the far outside lane.
- As soon as a car approaching from the incorrect direction changes lanes, get off the road and dial *FHP or 911.
When a motorist approaches a WRONG WAY sign or becomes aware that they are traveling in the incorrect direction, what should they do?
To stop a crash:
- Stop right away.
- Pull off to the side of the road.
- When it is safe to do so, turn around.
When a driver travels the wrong way on the road, it can easily result in head-on collisions, causing severe injuries and fatalities. As one would expect, head-on collisions are among the most catastrophic forms of car accidents because both vehicles are traveling at high speeds and collide directly.
If you have suffered injuries or losses because of a car accident caused by a wrong-way driver, our Florida Car Accident Injury Lawyers at Whittel & Melton can help you. We can investigate the cause of the crash and hold the at-fault driver accountable for all your losses. We can answer any questions you may have and seek financial compensation on your behalf. Call us now at 866-608-5529 or contact us online to request a completely free and confidential consultation.