Two men were killed and six more were seriously injured in a wrong-way traffic accident in Federal Way earlier this year. According to the Federal Way Mirror, a car was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of Kent Des Moines Road (State Route 516) just before midnight when it struck two vehicles traveling the correct direction. A third vehicle attempted to avoid the crashed cars, but struck a guardrail and one of the other vehicles.
The two men driving in the vehicle going the wrong way–38-year-old Faalfua Ili and his brother 36-year-old Freddie Ili, both of Federal Way–died in the crash. Two other accident victims remain in critical condition while four were in serious or satisfactory condition.
How Wrong Way Highway Accidents Happen
Tragically, wrong way crashes are all too common in Federal Way, in Washington State, and across the country. While you may think that it is difficult if not impossible not to realize that you are going the wrong way down a highway or interstate, these accidents take place regularly.
There are a few common causes of wrong way accidents in Washington State:
- The driver is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
- The driver is suffering from mental illness or dementia.
- The driver was confused by poor signage or poor ramp design.
- The drive is unfamiliar with the area.
- Poor visibility.
- Distracted driving.
In the above Federal Way car accident, the cause of the wrong way accident remains under investigation.
Compensation for Wrong Way Car Accidents
Wrong way driving accidents are especially dangerous because they often involve head-on collisions and high speeds–like the accident above, fatalities and critical injuries are common. If they survive, drivers who go the wrong way often face serious traffic violations and criminal charges.
Being the victim of a wrong way driver can affect every aspect of your life, from your health to your career to your relationships. If a wrong way driver causes an accident that leaves you seriously injured, he or she may be responsible for damages, including:
- Medical bills.
- Lost wages.
- Pain and suffering.
- Property damage.
- Wrongful death.
Consult With A Federal Way Car Accident Attorney Today
Wrong way traffic accidents can have devastating effects on whole families, no matter the reason that they occurred. When someone is injured in a wrong way accident due to another person’s negligence, it is imperative that they receive compensation for their losses, whether from a drunk driver, a reckless driver, or a municipality.
At The Ye Law firm, our legal team is committed to helping the victims of serious car accidents throughout Washington State get compensation and justice in the wake of a collision. We offer free, private consultations to the victims of wrong way accidents as well as their families – to ensure that you and your family know your rights under the law.
To schedule a meeting, please contact us today.