Wrong-Way Driving: A Continued Problem in Phoenix

September 21, 2017

The Phillips Law Group’s supervising lawyer Timothy Tonkin was recently featured on ABC 15 Arizona to discuss Phoenix’s problem with wrong-way driving.

Since the start of 2017, more than 20 incidents of wrong-way driving in the Phoenix area have been reported to the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). Three of those were arrested by DPS troopers between Sept. 8 and Sept. 11 on Loop 101 and Bell Rd.

Although the majority of wrong-way drivers were found to be intoxicated, Tonkin argues inadequate warning signs could also contribute to the high number of drivers traveling in the wrong lane.

Tonkin claims that this issue has been prevalent since State Route 202 was first constructed and should be addressed by installing proper warning signs along the roadway to prevent wrong-way driving collisions.

Arizona’s Pilot Program to Prevent Wrong-Way Driving

Currently, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is working on a wrong-way driving pilot program to quickly identify a vehicle traveling in the wrong direction so that law enforcement and other drivers are aware of its location.

The pilot program’s detection system includes flashing LED lights on warning signs to alert drivers that they are traveling in the wrong lane and need to correct themselves. ADOT has also installed cameras with thermal sensors to easily identify and track wrong-way drivers for law enforcement to detain.

ADOT is currently testing its pilot program on Interstate 17 in a section between Interstate 10 and Loop 101 in Phoenix. Construction of the thermal camera pilot system is expected to begin this fall, with full installation expected to last for seven months.

Schedule a Free Consultation with an Auto Accident Attorney

Wrong-way driving often results in severe auto accidents that cause serious injuries or death to the drivers and passengers involved.

If you or someone you love has been injured by a wrong-way driver, do not hesitate to contact our experienced personal injury attorneys in Phoenix for a free, no obligation consultation. We are dedicated to fighting for victims’ rights and will review the circumstances of your claim to determine if you have a case that entitles you to compensation.

We understand the difficulties that victims and their families face after an accident, which is why we work only on a contingency fee basis. This means all of our services are provided at no upfront cost and we will only charge you if we recover compensation for your claim.

Call 1-800-706-3000 or complete our Free Case Evaluation formto get started.