According to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, wrong-way crashes result in nearly 400 fatalities every year. Although wrong-way crashes do not occur as much as other types of Massachusetts car accidents, when they do, they are much more likely to result in a fatality. Wrong-way crashes occur when one vehicle is traveling in a direction against the proper flow of traffic. These accidents typically happen on a divided highway or an exit or entrance ramp, and generally involve head-on collisions occurring at high speeds. If a wrong-way collision results in the death of a motorist, it may be the basis for a Massachusetts wrongful death lawsuit.
Despite the various public service campaigns to educate and enforce safe driving habits, wrong-way accidents still occur. The leading causes of wrong-way crashes are motorists driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding and engaging in dangerous maneuvers, improper passing, vehicle malfunctioning, and road hazards that lead to a loss of control. The nature of these accidents tends to cause serious and potentially fatal injuries. Some common injuries after wrong-way accidents are traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and burn injuries. Many victims and their families experience enormous financial burdens in the aftermath of these accidents.
Recently, a Boston news report indicated that two people died, and one person suffered severe injuries in a wrong-way accident. According to the report, a 30-year-old woman drove her vehicle in the wrong direction on a highway. She collided with another car driven by a 66-year-old woman. The woman was transferred to a Boston hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries. A 39-year-old passenger in her car died at the scene of the accident. The accident involved another vehicle; however, that passenger did not require emergency medical treatment. Police stated that they are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to the tragic accident.
Massachusetts law provides that an executor or administrator of a deceased person can file a wrongful death lawsuit against an at-fault party. In these cases, the plaintiff must establish that the at-fault party caused the victim\’s death through their failure to exercise reasonable care, negligence, reckless, malicious or wanton acts, or a breach of warranty. Barring particular exceptions, these lawsuits must be filed within three years of the date of death or the date of when the plaintiff knew or should have known that a wrongful death claim was available.
Have You Suffered Injuries in a Massachusetts Car Accident?
If you or someone you love has suffered serious injuries in a Massachusetts car accident, consider contacting the attorneys at the Law Offices of Barry Feinstein and Affiliates P.C. The attorneys at our law firm have over 25 years of experience advocating on behalf of Massachusetts injury victims against big insurance companies, negligent government entities, and at-fault motorists. Our lawyers understand the devastating toll that car and truck accidents can have on a person and their loved ones. We use our knowledge, experience, and litigation skills to help our clients pursue the compensations they need and deserve. Contact our office at 800-262-9200 for a free consultation with an experienced Massachusetts personal injury attorney.
