Impaired Driver Takes the Life of Nevada Victim in a Wrong-Way Crash
A fatal accident that occurred on the 215 Beltway in Summerlin stands as a reminder of the all too common occurrence of wrong-way drivers on Nevada roads, and the dire consequences of wrong-way crashes. After traveling against traffic for at least four minutes, a wrong-way driver on the beltway struck a pickup truck head-on. The truck was then hit by another vehicle traveling in the direction of traffic.
If you were injured in a wrong-way crash, or lost a loved one in such a wreck, a wrong-way accident lawyer at Bradshaw Law can help you understand and pursue your options. Call 775-738-7444 to discuss your case.
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What Causes Wrong-Way Accidents?
Wrong-way accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities. Understanding the causes behind these events can help us take proactive measures to prevent them.
Common reasons for wrong-way accidents include:
Impaired Driving
One of the leading causes of wrong-way accidents is impaired driving. Alcohol or drug impairment can affect a driver’s judgment and lead to dangerous decisions, such as entering a highway or freeway in the wrong direction.
The wrong-way driver involved in the fatal crash that occurred on the 215 Beltway reportedly had THC in her blood and cocaine in her system at the time of the wreck. Her blood alcohol level was nearly four times the legal limit for drivers.
Confusion or Distraction
Drivers who are unfamiliar with an area or distracted by their phones or other factors may unintentionally enter an exit ramp or drive against the flow of traffic.
Poorly Marked Roads
In some cases, inadequate signage or confusing road layouts can contribute to wrong-way accidents. Clear and visible signage is crucial to guide drivers safely.
Medical Conditions
Medical conditions can impair a driver’s ability to navigate the road correctly. Conditions such as dementia or seizures may lead to confusion and wrong-way driving.
Fatigue
Fatigued drivers are more likely to make mistakes on the road, including entering an exit ramp or driving in the wrong direction.
Road Construction or Maintenance
Temporary road changes or detours due to construction or maintenance work can confuse drivers, increasing the likelihood of wrong-way accidents.
Lack of Driver Education
Some wrong-way accidents occur due to a lack of understanding of traffic rules or signs. Education and awareness campaigns can help prevent such incidents.
The Consequences of Wrong-Way Accidents in Nevada
Wrong-way accidents often result in serious consequences for those involved. The high speeds at which these collisions occur can lead to ranging injuries and fatalities. Wrong-way crashes can cause injuries from minor cuts and bruises to severe trauma, such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. Because of the high impact of many wrong-way collisions, these accidents commonly result in catastrophic and fatal injuries.
Three people suffered injuries in the wrong-way crash that occurred on the 215 Beltway. At least one of the victims was hospitalized for more than a month due to the injuries she suffered. The wrong-way driver, as well as the husband of the woman hospitalized, were killed in the wreck.
One of the most tragic aspects of wrong-way accidents is that they are often preventable. By understanding the causes and taking steps to prevent them, we can work towards reducing the number of these devastating incidents.
It’s crucial for drivers to be aware of the dangers of wrong-way driving and to take every precaution to ensure they are traveling safely and responsibly.
Legal Ramifications for the Impaired Driver
The legal ramifications for impaired drivers, such as the one in the 215 Beltway accident, vary depending on the specific circumstances in the case, among other factors. As she perished in the crash, the driver in the fatal wrong-way crash will not face criminal charges. If she had survived, however, she might have been charged with multiple offenses for her role in causing the accident.
In cases where impaired drivers cause wrong-way accidents that result in injuries or death, they may face criminal charges, including driving under the influence or vehicular homicide. If convicted of such offenses, wrong-way drivers may face fines, jail time, a driver’s license suspension or revocation, or other such penalties. Drivers fleeing the scene after accidents may also face additional or enhanced penalties.
In addition to criminal cases, impaired wrong-way drivers may also face civil lawsuits. Victims may take legal action to recover compensation for the damages they suffer as a result of the crash. For example, the hospitalized victim, could choose to file a lawsuit against the estate of the deceased wrong-way driver for damages such as her associated medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Pursuing Compensation for Wrong-Way Accident Injuries in Nevada
For a successful personal injury claim after a wrong-way accident, several key elements are necessary. These elements help establish liability and quantify the damages suffered by the injured party.
Evidence of Negligence: You must show that the other party was negligent, meaning he or she failed to exercise reasonable care, and that this negligence directly caused the accident. Evidence may include police reports, witness statements, and expert opinions.
Proof of Damages: You’ll need to provide evidence of the damages you’ve suffered as a result of the accident. To this end, you may provide medical bills, receipts for other expenses related to your injuries, and documentation of lost wages or income.
Medical Records: Detailed medical records documenting your injuries, treatment received, and prognosis are crucial. They help establish the extent of your injuries and the medical care required.
Documentation of Other Losses: Besides medical expenses and lost income, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Keep a record of how the accident has affected you and your daily life.
Proof of Liability: Establishing that the other party was at fault is crucial. You may accomplish this through witness statements, accident reconstruction reports, and available video footage or photographs of the accident scene.
Timeliness: In Nevada, there’s a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. It’s essential to file your claim within the specified time frame to avoid losing your right to compensation.
Legal Representation: Working with an experienced car accident lawyer can improve your chances of a successful claim. An attorney can help you gather evidence, navigate the legal process, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
What Damages Can You Recover in a Wrong-Way Accident Case?
In wrong-way accident cases, victims may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages to compensate them for their losses. The damages you can pursue in a wrong-way accident case, whether involving suspected DUI or not, include:
Medical Expenses
Compensation for past and future medical bills related to the injuries suffered in the accident.
Lost Income
Reimbursement for wages lost due to the inability to work following the accident, as well as potential future earnings if the injuries result in long-term disability.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and injuries.
Wrong-way accidents are preventable incidents that can have lifelong consequences. Seeking fair compensation for your damages can help you recover after such a traumatic event.
Wrong-Way Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims
In cases where a wrong-way accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. Wrongful death claims seek to compensate for the financial and emotional losses suffered as a result of the death. These damages include:
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: Compensation for the costs associated with laying your loved one to rest.
- Loss of Financial Support: Compensation for the income and financial support the deceased would have provided to his or her family members.
- Loss of Companionship: Compensation for the emotional pain and suffering resulting from the loss of a loved one.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Navigating a wrongful death claim can be complex, especially during a time of grief. If you find yourself asking, “How can a car accident lawyer help?” the answer is clear, by advocating on your behalf, so you can focus on healing and moving forward.
Wrong-way accidents are tragic events that can have devastating consequences for victims and their families. If you’ve been injured in a wrong-way accident or lost a loved one due to another driver’s negligence, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone.At Bradshaw Law, we are here to help you seek the compensation you need. Our experienced car accident lawyers understand the challenges of these cases, and are dedicated to fighting for justice on your behalf. Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact us today.
