Wrong way accidents on Kansas City roads create situations that can result in serious injuries for everyone involved. These collisions often occur without warning, leaving those affected with severe injuries that impact their ability to work and enjoy their daily lives. If you were hit by a wrong way driver, reach out to a personal injury attorney in Kansas City to take legal action and recover compensation for every way that the accident has affected you.
Common Causes of Wrong Way Driving in Kansas City
Following established traffic flow is essential for everyone’s safety on Kansas City roads. When drivers travel against designated traffic patterns, the resulting head-on collisions often lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Wrong way accidents often stem from driver error, road design issues, or environmental factors:
- Impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs
- Confusion among elderly drivers
- Distracted driving, such as phone use
- Insufficient or obscured signage
- Unfamiliarity with local roads
- Poor visibility due to fog, rain, or darkness
- Driver fatigue or drowsiness
- Insufficient lighting at intersections and ramps
- Poorly marked exit and entrance ramps
Establishing Liability in Wrong Way Collision Cases
Liability refers to a person’s legal responsibility for an accident and the resulting damages. In wrong way car accident cases, establishing liability is crucial because it determines who must pay for medical bills, property damage, and other losses. Evidence like police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage can help reconstruct the series of events leading up to the accident and who bears primary responsibility.
For example, if Driver A enters an interstate exit ramp going the wrong direction and collides with Driver B who was lawfully traveling in the correct lane, Driver A would likely bear full liability. However, say that Driver B had ample time to notice Driver A approaching in the wrong direction but was distracted by their phone. In this situation, Driver B may be found to be partially liable for the accident.
In some cases, a government entity may be responsible for the collision. This can occur when inadequate signage, poor road design, or lack of proper maintenance creates conditions that confuse drivers and lead to wrong way car accidents.
Compensation for Catastrophic Wrong Way Accident Injuries
Wrong way collisions or head-on car accidents frequently result in catastrophic injuries. When two vehicles collide head-on at high speeds, occupants often suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, multiple fractures, internal organ damage, and severe lacerations.
After sustaining such severe injuries, you may qualify for compensation to address every way that the accident has affected your life. Your insurance claim or lawsuit can help pay for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Physical pain and emotional suffering
- Home modifications for accessibility
- Property damage
Speak with a Kansas City Wrong Way Accident Lawyer Today
Wrong way car accidents are some of the most devastating collisions that can happen in Kansas City. When another driver’s negligence leaves you seriously injured and unable to work, you deserve fierce legal representation that puts your recovery first. The attorneys at Dollar, Burns, Becker, and Hershewe have helped countless Kansas City victims rebuild their lives after catastrophic car accidents. Contact us at (816) 876-2600 today for a free consultation and learn how our Kansas City car accident lawyers can fight for you.