First Texas Driving Death Of 2018 Caused By Wrong-Way Driver
According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), there is just an average of 3% of all crashes on the nation’s divided highways that are the result of someone driving in the wrong direction. Each year there is approximately 260 wrong way crashes each year with an estimated 360 fatalities. Even with such a low number, this type of accident is far more likely to result in one or more fatality.
Two of the first traffic fatalities of 2018 has happened in North Texas, just after midnight at the turn of the year. According to a report which appeared on the CBS Local website for Dallas-Fort Worth, the fatal crash is being blamed on a wrong-way driver.
Dallas Police said in a statement that at approximately 12:00 a.m. the wrong-way driver had been traveling southbound on I-35E in the northbound lanes in his a 2013 Hyundai Elantra.
The male driver, whose identity has not been released, collided his vehicle with a male collided with a 2012 Ford Expedition. The Expedition was being driven by a 34-year-old male whose name has also not been released by the authorities.
Police arrived shortly after the crash and pronounced the driver of the Hyundai dead at the scene. The driver of the Ford Expedition was transported to an area hospital but later died as the result of injuries he suffered in the crash. Police and County authorities have declined to release any identities pending the notification of the next of kin.
Dallas County Medical Examiner was also called to the scene of the fatal crash.
It may be some time before it is fully determined what happened in this tragic accident. In the meantime, the families who are left behind have to face the incredible devastation that follows at having lost their loved one in such a senseless tragedy. Nationwide, it is estimated that in a staggering 43% of all wrong-way crashes alcohol, drugs or both have played a role. Other causes may include the driver having a medical issue and becoming confused and entering an exit-ramp rather than an on-ramp or as the result of distracted driving.
If you or a loved one has been injured, or if you have tragically lost a loved one in an accident involving a drunken driver or wrong-way crash, contact our offices today. One of our lawyers will discuss the details of your case with you and help you decide your best course of action.
We will also be happy to serve as your point of contact whenever dealing with insurance companies or any parties connected to your accident. We are committed to serving the needs of our clients in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and have years of experience. We are equally committed to doing the same for you in your time of need. Call us today. Your initial consultation and legal analysis are free.
