Wrong-way crashes account for approximately 2% of all crashes that occur in the United States. Because these crashes are so violent, they often get the most coverage. Also known as head-on collisions, wrong-way crashes account for just over 10% of all accident fatalities. The speeds at which they occur is one of the primary reasons that head-on, wrong-way collisions are often so deadly.
There are many reasons that wrong-way collisions occur, but there are three which often coincide with head-on collisions. One of the most common causes of a wrong-way accident is driving while intoxicated. The next cause involves poor car handling as drivers attempt to pass a slower moving vehicle by driving into oncoming lanes. Finally, drowsy and distracted driving are two other factors that cause a wrong-way collision.
Bay News 9 reports that two people are dead after a wrong-way crash on Interstate 275.
The crash occurred at about 3:15 p.m. last Saturday on Interstate 275 near the Westshore Boulevard exit.
The Florida Highway Patrol reported that a 28-year-old male drove north in the southbound lanes.
The driver who was going the wrong way collided head-on with another vehicle. Both of the drivers were pronounced dead at the scene.
A third vehicle collided with the second car, but the driver of that car was not injured.
Due to Marsy’s law, no identities have been released as of yet.
Troopers said that the crash is still being investigated. Alcohol impairment is thought to have been a factor.
