A wrong-way crash can occur when someone is confused by poorly marked roads or if the driver is distracted by their cell phone or other devices. However, transportation experts agree the number one reason for wrong-way crashes is caused by drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
NBC San Diego reports that is likely what happened in a fatal head-on collision that occurred along Interstate 8 recently and left one person dead.
A spokesperson for the California Highway Patrol told reporters that the accident happened when a suspected DUI driver in a black BMW entered the freeway heading eastbound in the westbound lanes of Interstate 8.
At approximately 2:20 a.m.the driver of the BMW collided his vehicle with a westbound silver Honda Accord. The driver of the Honda suffered life-threatening injuries in the collision.
Emergency crews were dispatched to the scene of the crash. The driver of the Honda died a short time later despite all attempts by paramedics to save their life.
The driver of the BMW suffered moderate injuries in the crash. They were taken to an area hospital for treatment. No other vehicles were involved in the crash.
Authorities have not released the identity of the driver of the BMW, who has since been arrested on suspicion of DUI. Other charges may be pending.
The accident is still currently under investigation. No further information was available at the time of the report.