Wrong-Way Driver Causes Accident on Greenback Lane in Citrus Heights
A wrong-way driver in Citrus Heights caused a collision that resulted in two people being hospitalized on July 17. The accident happened at about 8:00 in the evening along Greenback Lane. The driver was heading west in the eastbound lanes and crashed into a vehicle where the street intersects with Fountain Square Drive.
Both Drivers Hospitalized After Wrong-Way Crash
The drivers of both vehicles were injured and taken to a hospital to be treated, according to the report by the Citrus Heights Police Department. The wrong-way driver was reported as having injuries that were non-life-threatening. It was not stated whether alcohol or drug consumption was a factor in the wrong-way crash. The traffic accident is being investigated by the police to determine how it occurred.
Wrong-Way Driver Accidents
A wrong-way driver accident can result in catastrophic injuries. Approximately 350 such crashes happen annually. It is a driver’s worst nightmare. This is reasonable since the impact is based on the speed of both vehicles. This combined impact results in more deaths than other types of accidents based on their incidence.
Characteristics of Wrong-Way Accidents
The vast majority of wrong-way accidents are caused when a driver enters an exit ramp traveling the wrong way. This may be caused by the driver’s unfamiliarity with the area or due to lack of adequate signage.
- Drivers over 80 are more likely to be in a wrong-way accident. This may be due to confusion or visual difficulties.
- A higher number of wrong-way accidents occur on the weekend. This happens due to increased recreational use of drugs or drinking.
- About 78 percent of all wrong-way driver accidents occur between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. This occurs because of lack of visibility at night, along with the increased incidence of intoxicated drivers on the road.
- Most wrong-way accidents occur adjacent to the median.
Investigating a Wrong-Way Driver Crash
Investigating a wrong-way driver accident is complex since it can involve both driver error and city negligence. The latter expresses itself when there is a lack of effective signage to reduce confusion near an exit ramp. Drivers who are unfamiliar with the area may easily turn into the exit ramp, resulting in a head-on wrong-way accident.
The signage needs to be clearly visible and posted a distance from the ramp to give drivers a chance to turn around. At night, the signage should be illuminated, so it is not hidden from sight. Our investigators detail this in their report along with photographic evidence. If signage is absent or not well maintained, it is possible to bring a lawsuit against the city government agency in charge of maintenance. Your personal injury lawyer will ensure that claims are filed on time since claims against the government have a shorter time limit to file.
Our investigative team also interviews witnesses and reviews the police report for mistakes. They use accident reconstruction techniques to learn the position of the vehicles before, during and after impact. Once all the evidence is compiled, it is turned over to our legal team, who use it to build a strong case for our clients.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Citrus Heights
I’m Ed Smith, a Citrus Heights Personal Injury Lawyer. Accidents caused by a negligent driver can cause severe injuries. However, the at-fault driver can be held liable for the cost of lost wages, medical care and pain and suffering the accident caused. If you would like my free and friendly advice, give me a call at (916) 921-6400 or at (800) 404-5400. Some prefer to get in touch with me by completing the form online.
I’m honored to have helped injured residents of Citrus Heights and the rest of Northern California for over 38 years in cases involving traffic crashes, traumas such as brain injuries and wrongful deaths. Call to see if I can help you.
I belong to the Top 1 Percent and Million Dollar Advocates.
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Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/wrong-way-sign-road-caution-167535/
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