Intoxication due to drugs or alcohol is one of the leading causes of wrong way car accidents in Connecticut. A driver who is intoxicated will be more likely to make dangerous decisions, such as driving the wrong way down a one-way street, driving on an off-ramp instead of the on-ramp, and so forth. Connecticut assessed more than 200 highway ramps and the number of businesses that serve alcohol within half a mile. Additionally, prescription drug use can affect a driver’s judgment and coordination, making them more likely to drive dangerously even if they don’t realize it.

Another major contributor to wrong way car accidents is distracted driving. Drivers that are focused on activities other than the road, such as texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in conversation with passengers, may enter onto a one-way street or freeway without realizing it until it’s too late. Therefore, drivers must keep their attention on the road at all times and avoid any form of distraction that can lead to serious consequences.

Poor signage or road markings can also lead to drivers going the wrong way. In some cases, confusing signs can cause drivers to lose their bearings and end up on the wrong side of the street. Additionally, dimly lit streets and faded road lines may mean that drivers take a wrong turn without realizing it until it’s too late.

To combat this problem, Connecticut has started to install larger signs at major intersections that clearly indicate which way traffic should go. 

Poor weather conditions or limited visibility are also major contributors to wrong way accidents. Fog, rain, and other inclement weather can make it difficult for drivers to see street signs that indicate the direction of travel on a one-way road. Additionally, unlit roads may cause drivers to mistakenly enter onto a one-way street, as they may only be able to distinguish the presence of cars rather than signage in the dark.

It’s not uncommon for drivers to make wrong turns after being behind the wheel for too long, especially if they are feeling drowsy or fatigued. If a person has been driving late at night after experiencing a lack of sleep, this can lead to confusion and poor decision-making on the road, potentially resulting in a wrong way accident. To prevent exhaustion-related wrong way errors, it is important to be well-rested before driving and take regular stops when traveling long distances.