According to a recent article, a two-vehicle crash in East Millinocket on Friday claimed the life of a Medway woman and left two children injured. The accident occurred just after 12:30 p.m. on Main Street near Dolby Landfill Road. East Millinocket Police have determined that a small Chevy sedan traveling east crossed the center line into the path of a westbound Chevy 3500 service truck. The truck driver attempted to avoid the collision by moving into the opposite lane, but the sedan corrected its course, ultimately colliding with the truck and causing it to overturn. The sedan sustained significant front-end damage. The sedan’s driver, a 66-year-old woman from Medway, was transported via LifeFlight to Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, where she later succumbed to her injuries. One of the two child passengers, ages 8 and 6, was also flown to the hospital but was reported to be in stable condition. The second child was treated at Millinocket Regional Hospital and later released.
Wrong-way crashes are among the most catastrophic types of motor vehicle accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. These collisions typically occur when a vehicle travels against the designated flow of traffic, frequently leading to head-on impacts at high speeds. Unfortunately, wrong-way crashes are a persistent danger on Maine’s roadways, with devastating consequences for victims and their families.
Common Causes of Wrong-Way Accidents
Wrong-way crashes can happen for a variety of reasons, but some of the most common causes include:
- Driver Impairment – A significant percentage of wrong-way crashes involve drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired drivers often become disoriented, leading them to enter highways or roads in the wrong direction.
- Poor Road Signage or Visibility – Inadequate or confusing road signs, poor lighting, and adverse weather conditions can contribute to wrong-way driving incidents.
- Distracted Driving – Drivers who are texting, using GPS, or otherwise distracted may fail to notice road signs indicating the proper direction of travel.
- Elderly or Inexperienced Drivers – Some wrong-way crashes result from confusion among elderly or inexperienced drivers who misinterpret road signs or mistakenly turn into oncoming traffic.
- Medical Emergencies – Health-related incidents, such as strokes or sudden loss of consciousness, can cause drivers to lose control and enter the wrong lane.
The Severe Consequences of Wrong-Way Collisions
Wrong-way accidents are particularly dangerous due to the high speeds and force involved in head-on collisions. The resulting injuries are often severe and may include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and internal organ damage
- Severe burns and disfigurement
- Fatalities
Victims of wrong-way crashes often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care, leading to significant financial burdens for them and their families.
Legal Options for Victims of Wrong-Way Crashes
If you or a loved one has been injured in a wrong-way accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages (in fatal cases)
Establishing liability in a wrong-way crash is crucial to securing compensation. At Peter Thompson & Associates, our experienced legal team thoroughly investigates these accidents, gathering crucial evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports to build a strong case for our clients.
Contact a Maine Personal Injury Attorney Today
Wrong-way crashes are life-altering events that demand experienced legal representation. If you or a loved one has been involved in a wrong-way accident, Peter Thompson & Associates is here to help. Our dedicated attorneys fight for the rights of accident victims, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Give us a call at 207-874-0909 or visit our website now.