Wrong-way crashes are one of the deadliest types of car accidents. Unfortunately, they’re becoming more common in Houston. A KHOU 11 investigation recently found that injuries from wrong-way crashes in Harris County have reached a 10-year high, with 233 injuries in the past year alone.
The investigation also revealed that certain intersections in Houston are hot spots for wrong-way accidents, some of which may be due to poor road signage and driver confusion.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a wrong-way accident, you may have legal options. This article explores where these crashes happen, why they occur, and what victims can do.
Wrong-Way Accidents: A Growing Problem in Houston
According to TxDOT crash data, 111 people have died in wrong-way crashes in Harris County in the last decade. While fatalities slightly declined last year, injuries are at an all-time high.
One such victim, Jocelyn Nelson, was involved in a head-on wrong-way crash on Durham Drive at the 610 North Loop. She suffered multiple injuries, including fractured ribs, a broken foot, and broken blood vessels in her eye.
“I’ve actually changed my route home. I don’t even go this route anymore,” Nelson said.
Her crash location, Durham and 610, is one of Houston’s top five wrong-way crash hotspots, highlighting a growing safety concern.
Where Are the Worst Wrong-Way Crash Locations?
According to KHOU 11 Investigates, these five intersections have the highest number of wrong-way crashes in Houston over the past 10 years:
- Greenbriar & the Southwest Freeway Feeder – 14 crashes
- Providence & McKee (Fifth Ward) – 14 crashes
- Pierce & Hamilton (Downtown Houston) – 14 crashes
- Downtown at Pierce & Milam – 12 crashes
- Durham Drive & 610 North Loop – 11 crashes
At Pierce & Hamilton, KHOU found a twisted one-way sign facing the wrong direction, which could have contributed to accidents. Houston Public Works (HPW) installed three new signs after being alerted to the issue, but many drivers worry that similar problems exist across the city.
Why Do Wrong-Way Crashes Happen?
Most wrong-way crashes are caused by driver negligence or road hazards. Common causes include:
- Drunk Driving – Intoxicated drivers are responsible for many wrong-way crashes, especially late at night.
- Distracted Driving – Drivers looking at GPS or their phones may take a wrong turn onto a one-way street.
- Poor Signage or Road Design – Missing, obstructed, or misleading signs can cause driver confusion.
- Elderly or Inexperienced Drivers – Some drivers may misinterpret road signs and drive against traffic.
Nelson, the crash victim, noted that unclear signage played a role in her accident. “There is a clear issue there that needs to be resolved,” she said.
How to Avoid a Wrong-Way Driver
Although wrong-way crashes are unpredictable, drivers can take steps to protect themselves:
- Stay Focused – Keep your eyes on the road and scan for potential traffic problems ahead.
- Drive in the Right Lane at Night – Most wrong-way drivers mistakenly use the left lane as their “right lane,” making the right lane safer.
- Slow Down & Pull Over – If you see a wrong-way driver, move to the shoulder and call 911.
Your priority is your safety, not stopping the wrong-way driver yourself.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Wrong-Way Crash?
If you were injured in a wrong-way crash, multiple parties could be responsible:
- The Wrong-Way Driver – If negligence caused the crash, they are likely liable.
- A Bar or Restaurant – If the at-fault driver was overserved alcohol before the crash, the establishment could be responsible under Texas dram shop laws.
- Government Agencies – If missing or misleading road signs contributed to the crash, the city or state may share liability.
- Car Manufacturers – If a mechanical failure, such as faulty brakes, contributed to the crash, the manufacturer could be at fault.
A Houston car accident lawyer can help investigate your case and identify all possible sources of compensation.
Injured in a Wrong-Way Crash? Here’s What to Do
If you or a loved one has been in a wrong-way crash, follow these steps:
- Call 911 Immediately – Report the accident and request emergency medical help.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries don’t show symptoms right away.
- Document Everything – Take photos of the scene, gather witness statements, and request a copy of the police report.
- Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer – A lawyer can help you fight for maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
How Attorney Omar Can Help
At Attorney Omar Khawaja’s law firm, we fight for victims injured in serious auto accidents. If you were hurt in a wrong-way crash in Houston, we can:
- Investigate the crash and determine who is liable.
- Collect evidence, including traffic camera footage and police reports.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation.
- Take your case to court if necessary.
Wrong-way crashes are preventable, and victims deserve justice. Call Attorney Omar today for a FREE consultation.