How Common Are Wrong-Way Accidents?
Wrong-way accidents are relatively rare compared to other types of accidents—like rear-end collisions, T-bone crashes, or blind spot accidents. Wrong-way collisions are estimated to comprise roughly 1% of motor vehicle fatalities—about 300-400 deaths a year.
When a wrong-way accident does occur, the outcome is usually quite severe. A wrong-way collision is typically a head-on collision or a high-speed sideswipe. This involves two vehicles driving directly toward one another prior to impact. The force of collision often leaves drivers and passengers with catastrophic injuries. Many wrong-way accidents are fatal to vehicle occupants, especially those in the front seat.