In the past year, it seems impossible to go a whole week without hearing about a tragic car or motorcycle crash caused by a wrong-way driver on a major highway. Many of these crashes have resulted in fatalities and catastrophic injuries. In 2024 alone, there were 135 fatalities on New Hampshire roads. This has got to stop.
New Hampshire has established a task force led by Commissioner of Safety Robert Quinn and Attorney General John Formella. This group includes legislators, state department heads, a traffic engineer, representatives from the Department of Motor Vehicles, and the State Police. Their mission is to determine the root causes of these crashes and develop strategies to prevent them.
The Role of Impaired Driving in Wrong-Way Collisions
Many wrong-way crashes are the result of drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol who fail to heed warning signs indicating they are entering a highway in the wrong direction. The New Hampshire State Police have attempted to intercept and stop wrong-way drivers, but these efforts are not always successful and put officers at great risk.
Some wrong-way drivers claim that their GPS led them in the wrong direction, others cite medical episodes or drowsiness as the cause. Regardless of the reason, these drivers put everyone on the road in danger. If you’ve ever encountered a wrong-way driver on the highway, you know how terrifying the experience can be.
A Real Case: Tragic Motorcycle Accident
In a recent case, a man drank at one bar, then moved to another where he continued drinking. Witnesses claim he was overserved despite being visibly intoxicated. After stumbling out of the second bar, he got into his pickup truck, drove onto the highway, crossed into oncoming traffic, and struck two motorcyclists head-on. The two victims never had a chance—they were killed instantly. The driver was charged with negligent homicide and sentenced to state prison. Meanwhile, civil cases against both the driver and the bars that served him are ongoing. Regardless of the legal outcome, the victims' families are left with an unimaginable loss.
Preventing Wrong-Way Accidents
We must take action to prevent these senseless tragedies. Friends and bartenders must stop intoxicated individuals from getting behind the wheel. Those serving alcohol need to recognize the responsibility they bear in preventing deadly crashes. Drivers must also be aware that getting behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol or drugs can have fatal consequences.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident due to a wrong-way driver, Gottesman & Hollis, P.A. is here to help. Our Nashua-based attorneys have the experience and dedication needed to fight for justice. Call us at 603-506-4600 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation today.