Wrong-way driving (WWD) is when a person drives a vehicle against the intended direction of traffic on a road or highway. Sometimes, it’s an innocent mistake that a driver makes, especially if they are unfamiliar with the area. They may get a ticket and a stern warning. However, WWD can also be one of the most dangerous types of traffic incidents.
When it occurs on high-speed roads like freeways and divided highways, WWD can lead to fatal head-on collisions. Between 2015 and 2020, Kentucky recorded 88 wrong-way driving crashes. These incidents resulted in 16 fatalities and 27 serious injuries.
What are the common reasons for WWD?
Various factors can lead to WWD accidents:
- Alcohol or drug impairment, which significantly increases the likelihood of the driver having difficulty following traffic laws and recognizing road signs
- Unfamiliarity with road layouts, especially in complex intersections or poorly marked roads
- Age-related factors, such as slower reaction times or vision issues for older drivers, or lack of experience or understanding of certain road signs for younger drivers
- Distracted driving, whether due to mobile phone use or other in-car distractions, can cause drivers to miss important road signs and enter roadways incorrectly
- Insufficient or confusing road markings and signage can mislead drivers, especially at nighttime or in newly constructed areas
In some cases, drivers might deliberately drive the wrong way due to missing an exit, seeking a shortcut or thrill-seeking behavior. Drivers from countries with opposite traffic directions may also inadvertently drive on the wrong side of the road.
In Kentucky, like in many states, determining fault in a car accident involves identifying which driver acted negligently or broke traffic laws. In WWD cases, the driver who went the wrong way on the road is often considered at fault.
Filing a claim after a WWD accident
Kentucky operates under a no-fault insurance system. This means you will initially file a claim with your own insurance company under your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, regardless of who was at fault.
However, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver if your medical expenses exceed $1,000, you suffered a serious injury or your PIP coverage is exhausted. Working with an attorney can help you negotiate for a fair settlement or represent you in court, if necessary.