Wrong-way driver accidents are among the most catastrophic and preventable car crashes in Ohio. These head-on collisions often happen at high speeds, resulting in life-altering injuries or fatalities. If you or someone you love has been injured in a wrong-way crash, understanding the causes and determining liability is essential to protecting your legal rights. With decades of proven results, Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers is the firm Ohio accident victims trust to pursue the maximum compensation after a crash.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down how wrong-way accidents occur, who may be legally responsible, what compensation is available, and how to take immediate legal action.
A wrong-way accident occurs when a vehicle enters and drives against the legal flow of traffic and collides with another vehicle. These crashes frequently result in deadly head-on collisions and often occur on:
Wrong-way collisions are particularly dangerous due to the force of impact and the lack of reaction time for other drivers.
Most wrong-way crashes are the result of driver negligence or impaired judgment. Leading causes include:
More than half of wrong-way crashes involve alcohol or drug impairment. Intoxicated drivers are far more likely to misinterpret signs or lose orientation.
Elderly drivers, out-of-town visitors, or fatigued drivers may become disoriented, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
Texting, GPS use, and other distractions can cause drivers to miss warning signs or directional cues, leading to wrong-way entry.
When signage is missing, poorly placed, or obstructed, local or state agencies may share liability for creating unsafe road conditions.
Wrong-way crashes sometimes occur during police chases or as a result of aggressive or intentionally reckless behavior.
In nearly all cases, the wrong-way driver is held liable for the crash. Driving against traffic violates multiple Ohio traffic laws and is considered an act of gross negligence.
However, liability can also extend to third parties in the following circumstances:
If a vehicle owner allows an unlicensed or unfit person to drive their car, they may be held liable under negligent entrustment.
If the at-fault driver was operating a company vehicle, the employer may be liable for negligent hiring, training, or supervision.
If road signage, lighting, or layout contributed to the wrong-way entry, a city or state agency could be named in a claim. These cases involve shorter time limits.
Under Ohio’s dram shop laws, establishments that overserve visibly intoxicated patrons may be held liable if that person causes a wrong-way crash. If alcohol service contributed to the accident, the business may share responsibility for any resulting injuries or fatalities.
Wrong-way accidents often result in serious or fatal injuries due to their head-on nature. Common injuries include:
Taking the right steps after a wrong-way crash is crucial for your health and your case:
Victims of wrong-way accidents in Ohio may be eligible to recover damages for:
Our legal team works with investigators, medical professionals, and expert witnesses to pursue the maximum settlement or verdict possible.
At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the devastating impact of serious car accidents. Our experienced team offers aggressive legal representation with compassion and clarity. We have secured millions in settlements and verdicts for accident victims throughout Ohio. We provide:
Yes. You can file a personal injury lawsuit or insurance claim against the at-fault driver and any liable third parties.
Ohio law generally allows two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. Claims against government entities may have shorter deadlines.
You may be able to file both a personal injury lawsuit and a dram shop claim if an establishment overserved the driver.
Yes. These claims often involve complex liability and high damages. A personal injury lawyer can protect your rights and maximize your recovery.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a wrong-way driver accident in Ohio, it’s essential to act quickly to protect your legal rights. At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers, our car accident attorneys fight tirelessly for injury victims and their families, providing the experienced, results-driven representation they deserve. With decades of success handling personal injury and car accident claims across Ohio, our firm has recovered millions in compensation and earned a reputation for compassionate client care. Whether you’re in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Akron, Toledo, or any surrounding area, we’re here to stand by your side and help you pursue justice.
Don’t face the aftermath of a wrong-way crash alone. Contact Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni to schedule a free consultation or call 800-LAW-OHIO (800-529-6446) today. Let us help you hold the negligent driver accountable and recover the full compensation you need to move forward.
