AAA Releases Results of Study into Florida Wrong-Way Collisions

By Orlando Personal Injury Attorney on April 12, 2021

Recent data published by AAA sheds an unsettling light into wrong-way crashes on divided highways throughout the country in general, and Florida in particular. The data compiled by AAA states that, every year, about 500 people die as a result of head-on or wrong-way crashes that take place on divided highways. In Florida, it is estimated that between 30 and 35 people die every year as a result of wrong-way crashes on divided highways. These types of collisions, while not accounting for the majority of crashes throughout the state, are some of the most violent and fatal accidents that can take place, which is why this new report from AAA is so important.

As well as providing us with raw numbers about the number of fatalities as a result of wrong-way crashes, the report offers up some of the top reasons why people become involved in wrong-way crashes. After compiling data from all wrong-way collisions on divided highways from 2015 and 2018, AAA was able to say that three things in particular will increase the likelihood that you are involved in a wrong-way collision.

Number one on this list, which should come as a surprise to no one, is driving while under the influence of alcohol. Readers of this blog know well how often we report on wrong-way crashes that take place as a result of a person driving while intoxicated, and the evidence indicates that this correlation is seen throughout the country.

The second major factor for increasing the odds of a wrong-way crash is if the driver of the car headed against traffic is 70 or older. While no hard data exists on why this might be, the authors of the report speculate that it is possibly the result of poor vision, confusion, or simply being tired.

The third primary factor for increasing the likelihood of being involved in a car accident is whether or not a person is alone in a car. The data from across the country states that 87% of all people involved in wrong-way crashes were alone within their vehicle at the time of the collision.

While the full ramifications of the AAA report have yet to be seen, the published work goes a long way towards raising awareness around the causes and dangers of wrong-way crashes.

Sources:

• These 3 factors stand out in fatal wrong-way crashes

James O. Cunningham

Since 1977, personal injury lawyer James Cunningham has provided effective legal advocacy to people who are injured through the negligent actions of another person or entity throughout the Central Florida area. He fights to obtain recoveries for his clients’ physical and emotional pain and suffering and pursues his clients’ personal injury cases with a commitment to excellence and impeccable preparation.