A driver who somehow ended up on the wrong side of the highway was killed and two other people were hospitalized after an accident.
The wreck, which ultimately involved six vehicles, happened around 2:30 in the morning on May 4. The driver who was killed was heading south in the northbound lanes of 1-95 near Bridesburg.
Wrong-way accidents are a serious problem on highways around the nation — especially at night. While there’s no word on whether or not alcohol was involved in the accident mentioned here, that’s often the case. Other times, drivers simply get confused — especially when it’s dark and rainy — and mistake an exit ramp for an on-ramp or vice-versa. Altogether, there are as many as 400 wrong-way accidents each year. Most of them result in fatalities.
Here are some quick reminders that can help you from falling victim to a wrong-way driver:
1. “Stay right at night”
Since the majority of wrong-way accidents happen between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., and the wrong-way drivers usually stick to the left lane, staying in the right lane can help you avoid an accident — especially if visibility is poor.
2. Get off the road
If you do see a wrong-way driving coming your way, don’t blow your horn or try to alert them. The odds are good they are already confused, panicked or both. Pull your own car over to the shoulder and let the wrong-way driver pass.
3. Call 911
Never try to chase after a wrong-way driver to alert them. Call the authorities and let them know what’s happening.
Terrible accidents like the one on I-95 can leave the injured suffering physically and financially. Those who are killed may leave behind loved ones who will also need financial help for funeral expenses and more. It’s important for victims and their families to reach out to a car accident attorney to learn more about their legal options.