Accident With a Wrong Way Driver: Types of Injuries That Occur
UTAH CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER–JAKE GUNTER
A wrong way crash in Utah is not only a terrifying experience but often results in serious injuries. These accidents occur when a driver travels in the opposite direction of a one-way road, leading to a head-on collision.
Howard, Lewis & Petersen’s leading Provo UT accident attorney understands the legal nuances involved in these accidents and is committed to representing those who have been injured.
Wrong Way Accidents in Utah
Wrong way accidents play a substantial role in Utah’s road fatalities. Though they represent a relatively small percentage of total crashes, the severity of wrong way collisions makes them particularly deadly. In recent years, the state has seen a marked increase in these incidents, necessitating greater public awareness and legal scrutiny.
The exact figures can vary annually, but the statistics underscore the urgency to address wrong way crashes in Utah. The majority of these accidents occur on freeways and one-way roads, often during nighttime and under poor visibility conditions.
Types of Wrong Way Accident Injuries
Accidents with a wrong way driver are tragically common and often result in devastating injuries. These injuries include:
1. Head and Brain Injuries
In a Provo car accident involving a wrong way driver, head and brain injuries are common. The impact can cause concussion, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or even permanent cognitive impairments.
2. Neck and Spinal Cord Injuries
A wrong way crash in Utah can lead to severe spinal cord injuries, ranging from whiplash to paralysis. It often requires extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
3. Broken Bones and Fractures
The force of the collision may result in broken bones and fractures, particularly in the limbs. Treatment might include surgery, casting, and long-term therapy.
4. Internal Injuries
A Provo car accident may cause internal injuries to organs such as the lungs, liver, and kidneys. These can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
5. Psychological Injuries
Victims often suffer from psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
Utah’s legal system incorporates various laws and regulations that govern liability and compensation related to wrong way accident injuries. These include their negligence laws and time limitations in filing claims.
Wrong Way Accidents and Negligence Laws
Negligence laws in Utah are grounded in the principle that every individual has a duty to exercise reasonable care to avoid causing harm to others. In the context of a wrong way crash, this duty extends to operating a vehicle in the correct direction and following traffic laws.
Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that a plaintiff’s compensation may be reduced if they were partially at fault for the accident. If they were 50% or more at fault, they could be barred from recovering any damages.
Statute of Limitations for Filing a Wrong Way Accident Injuries
In Utah, victims have a limited time to file a personal injury claim, generally 4 years from the date of the accident. This time frame ensures that claims are pursued while evidence and witnesses are still available.
Missing this deadline can result in the dismissal of the claim, meaning the victim loses the right to seek compensation from the at-fault party. Exceptions to this rule are rare and typically involve unique circumstances, such as the discovery of an injury long after the accident.
Legal Representation by Howard, Lewis & Petersen, P.C.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a Provo car accident, particularly a wrong way crash in Utah, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Professional and comprehensive legal services can make a difference in your recovery and your future.
Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your specific situation and explore your legal options. Our top personal injury attorney in Provo, Utah, will navigate the complex legal landscape to help you seek the compensation you deserve.
