Most Colorado drivers take steps to be sure they do not make any mistakes while on the road. They pay attention, avoid distraction and make sure they do not get behind the wheel after drinking, but other drivers do not always follow these simple rules that help everyone get to their destinations safely. A driver could easily make a serious mistake that results in a fatal motor vehicle accident.
Recently, a 27-year-old woman mistakenly ended up driving west in the eastbound lanes of U.S. 50. One eastbound vehicle managed to avoid a head-on collision with the wrong-way vehicle, but was still struck in the rear. A second vehicle did not fare as well and was struck head-on by the westbound vehicle.
The wrong-way driver escaped the ordeal with only minor injuries, but her passenger suffered serious injuries. The 47-year-old driver of the vehicle that managed to swerve out of the way enough to avoid a severe impact walked away unharmed. However, the two occupants of the second eastbound vehicle suffered serious injuries for which they were transported to an area hospital. The passenger in that vehicle ended up succumbing to her injuries after reaching the hospital.
The driver in this fatal motor vehicle accident who was headed in the wrong direction could face criminal charges depending on the outcome of the investigation conducted by the Colorado State Patrol. In addition, those who suffered serious injuries and the family of the deceased passenger may file civil claims in connection with the crash as well. Presenting evidence that proves the wrong-way driver’s negligence could result in an award of damages to help with the unexpected financial losses incurred by the victims and their families.
Source: canoncitydailyrecord.com, “Canon City woman dies in three-car accident Friday night“, Carie Canterbury, April 14, 2018