New Jersey Wrong Way Car Accident Lawyer

If you’re on this page because of a wrong-way car accident, you’ve come to the right place. Our New Jersey car accident attorneys have over 40 years of experience helping those injured due to negligence. More than 35,000 individuals and families have received a favorable verdict or settlement with our help, totaling over $1 billion in successful results.

We call them “car accidents,” but they are not accidental. They are caused by negligence and carelessness. If someone is driving the wrong way down the road and causes an accident, they can be held liable for the damage they’ve caused. This includes money for property damage, pain and suffering, injuries, and lost income.

We can help you recover the maximum amount for your damages. We are happy to meet with you at one of our offices, or virtually via Zoom or FaceTime. If English is not your first language, we have Spanish speakers onsite and offer translation services in Russian, Polish, Portuguese, and more. There is no charge for the consultation, and you won’t owe any fees unless we recover money on your behalf.

Contact a New Jersey car accident attorney now to learn more.

Wrong-Way Driving Laws in New Jersey

There are two specific New Jersey laws that often apply in many wrong-way auto accident claims.

Driving on One-Way Roadways

The law explicitly addresses driving behavior on roadways designated and signed for one-way traffic. It mandates that operators only drive in the officially designated direction on such roads. If a driver goes the wrong way down a one-way street, they can be liable for any motor vehicle accidents that result.

Passing Vehicles and Crossing “No Passing” Lines

State law also outlines the rules for overtaking and passing other vehicles on the highway. It states that drivers must not drive to the left side of the centerline of a highway to overtake and pass others going in the same direction unless it is safe to do so. Specifically, this means the left side is clearly visible and free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead. A driver who crosses the centerline when it is unsafe would, therefore, be to blame for a subsequent collision.

Injuries Suffered in Wrong-Way Crashes

Wrong-way driving accidents often lead to severe collisions due to the unexpected and high-speed nature of these incidents. Common examples include the following:

Whiplash
Eye injuries
Traumatic brain injuries
Concussions
Skull fractures
Neck injuries
Spinal cord injuries
Facial fractures
Lacerations
Contusions
Burn injuries
Amputations
Dislocated joints
Crush injuries
Fractured bones
Sprains and strains
Pelvic fractures
Knee injuries
Internal bleeding
Chest injuries
Broken ribs
Abdominal injuries
Punctured lungs
Psychological trauma
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Common Causes of Wrong-Way Car Accidents

A wrong-way driver accident, in which a motorist travels in the opposite direction of traffic and hits an oncoming vehicle, often leads to severe and sometimes fatal collisions. Here are some typical reasons why wrong-way driving occurs:

Driver Confusion – This often happens at intersections, highway on-ramps, unfamiliar areas, and work zones. Poor signage or complex road layouts can contribute to this confusion, and those responsible for designing or maintaining these roads could potentially be liable for a wrong-way car accident. Our New Jersey car accident lawyers fully investigate all potentially negligent parties, including those responsible for confusing signage or detours.
Impaired Driving – Alcohol or drug impairment significantly increases the risk of a driver going the wrong way. Impaired drivers struggle with judgment, reaction times, and the ability to recognize and follow traffic signs.
Low Visibility Conditions – Visibility decreases at night and in bad weather. If drivers aren’t careful, they are more likely to overlook signs or become confused, which can lead to wrong-way driving.
Distracted Driving – Engaging in activities that divert attention from driving, like texting on a phone, can result in a driver inadvertently entering a road in the wrong direction.
Intentional Risky Behavior – Some drivers are more prone to taking risks, which means they might intentionally drive the wrong way as a reckless challenge or shortcut.

What to Do After a Wrong-Way Auto Accident

If you’ve been hurt in a wrong-way car accident, you can take the following steps to lay the groundwork for a strong injury claim:

Seek prompt medical attention and follow your doctor’s orders.
Contact a New Jersey car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Inform your insurance company about the accident.
Document your injuries with photographs.
Collect witness statements if possible.
Keep a diary of your symptoms and progress during recovery.
Gather and preserve medical records and bills.
Obtain a copy of the accident report from the police.
Avoid discussing the accident details on social media.
Keep a record of missed work and lost wages.
Track all expenses related to the accident.
Avoid accepting early settlement offers without legal advice from an experienced car accident attorney.

Can I Sue Someone for Wrong-Way Driving?

Yes, you can sue someone for wrong-way driving after a car crash in New Jersey. New Jersey’s unique car insurance system presents a few hurdles you’ll need to clear first, but an attorney can advise you on your rights and your options.

If you have grounds to file a lawsuit, you must prove that the other driver’s wrong-way driving caused the crash and your injuries. Your New Jersey auto accident lawyer can gather evidence, such as witness statements and video footage, to demonstrate these elements. They can also help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations gives you two years to file suit after a wrong-way car crash. The two-year filing window begins on the date of the auto accident, and filing your lawsuit within this period is crucial. You could lose your right to seek compensation if you miss the deadline.

Remember, preparing a lawsuit takes time, so it’s essential to start the process early. An attorney can help you understand the deadlines that apply to your situation and file your car accident lawsuit on time, protecting your rights to seek money for your injuries.

Money Damages Available in a New Jersey Wrong-Way Accident Claim

For car accident victims, a successful wrong-way auto accident claim could pay you money for your:

Past and current medical expenses
Projected medical costs you will incur in the future
Income losses from missed time at work
Projected losses in your lifetime earning capacity
Pain, suffering, and diminished quality of life

Contact Our Experienced Wrong-Way Driver Accident Lawyers in New Jersey Today

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a wrong-way driver crash, don’t wait to get the help you need to demand justice. Contact Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C. for a free consultation. If you are a car accident victim, our experienced legal team is here to help you understand your rights and explore your options.