According to investigators, a 23-year-old man was driving the wrong way when he collided head-on with an oncoming vehicle driven by the 19-year-old. It’s unclear why the driver was traveling in the opposite direction
Mesa, AZ.- A 19-year-old man was seriously hurt in a collision involving an alleged impaired motorist in Mesa on Sunday morning, according to a report by the Mesa Police Department.
The wrong-way incident took place at about 6:30 a.m. December 14, near Sossaman Road and Drummer Avenue.
According to investigators, a 23-year-old man was driving the wrong way when he collided head-on with an oncoming vehicle driven by the 19-year-old. It’s unclear why the driver was traveling in the opposite direction.
The teenage driver was rushed to a hospital with major injuries to his face and lower body. The motorist who caused the accident was suspected to have been impaired, police reported.
Both the northbound and southbound lanes of Sossaman Road were shut down as authorities investigated the incident. The cause of the accident remained under investigation by the Mesa Police.
Statewide Crash Trends:
Arizona experienced a slight decline in traffic incidents over the past two years, though crash fatalities remain high. In 2023, the state reported 122,247 total motor-vehicle crashes with 1,307 deaths, while 2024 saw a small decrease to 121,107 crashes and 1,228 fatalities, representing a 6.1% drop in deaths compared with the previous year. Despite the modest improvement, the number of serious injuries and fatalities remains near historically high levels, highlighting ongoing road safety challenges.
Speeding, impaired driving, and failure to use safety devices continue to be major contributing factors in fatal and serious crashes across the state. Emergency response efforts and public safety campaigns aim to reduce these risks, but Arizona’s highways and urban roads continue to see a significant number of severe accidents annually.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, speaking with a skilled car accident attorney can help you understand your legal rights during this difficult time. An attorney can guide you through the claims process, protect your interests, and pursue compensation for your injuries. Reach out today for compassionate legal support and a free case evaluation.