A Maryland man is facing a number of charges after he caused a three-car accident by driving the wrong way down Interstate 195.
At approximately 1:30 a.m., on March 15, state troopers were called to the scene on the Patapsco River Bridge due to reports that a Toyota was heading against traffic in the westbound lanes.
Ultimately, a three-car accident ensued. The Toyota rammed directly into a Nissan and then hit the driver’s side of a Mazda that had swerved to try to avoid impact. A passenger in the Nissan died on impact, and the drivers of both the Nissan and the Toyota were hospitalized.
The 34-year-old Jessup man who was driving the Toyota was apparently inebriated at the time of the accident. Aside from being charged with drunk driving, he also faces manslaughter charges, charges of homicide by motor vehicle while under the influence and causing a life-threatening injury by motor vehicle while under the influence — for starters.
Wrong-way accidents are distressingly common in the United States. There are between 300 and 400 wrong-way driving fatalities every year — the vast majority of which are due to drunk drivers. A collision at even 40 miles per hour stands a high chance of being fatal — so it’s smart to know what to do if you see a wrong-way driver heading your way.
If you see a wrong-way driver, take the following steps immediately:
- Pull over to the right side of the road, as far onto the shoulder as possible, and stop.
- Put on your lights, including your hazards.
- Call 911 and report the driver as soon as you are safe.
Moving to the right is the safest move because wrong-way drivers tend to occupy the left lane.
Car accidents on the highway can leave victims with overwhelming medical bills and life-long injuries. Don’t let the insurance companies deprive you of what you are due. Find out more about your legal right to compensation for your losses.