When first responders arrive at the scene of a car accident, there is usually a certain level of uncertainty about the degree of injuries suffered. However, the outcome for wrong-way car accidents occurring on a highway is likely to be serious or even fatal. A recent accident in North Carolina highlights the seriousness of such incidents.
One night in January, a 20-year-old woman was traveling in a sedan on a North Carolina highway. Unknown to her, an SUV driven by a 36-year-old man was headed toward her on the wrong side of the road. Unfortunately, the two vehicles collided with one another head-on, causing the SUV to catch on fire.
Both drivers were killed in the accident. There were no other occupants in either vehicle. At this time, police do not know what caused the man to enter the wrong side of the road or if alcohol or speed was a factor. They will, however, continue with their investigation into the incident.
Family members of the deceased woman are working together to cope with the devastating news of her death. In addition to their grief over her death, they are also likely facing several unexpected financial repercussions, including funeral costs and potentially lost wages. In order to help cope with these expenses, they have the option of filing a wrongful death case in a North Carolina civil court just as other victims or their families of similar car accidents have done. If they can prove the other driver’s negligence caused the accident, the court could rule damages be paid to the family of the deceased woman.
Source: wtvd.com, Two people killed in fiery head-on crash in Moore County, No author, Jan. 23, 2014