Note: Our firm’s mission is to help people injured in accidents. Because we do this work, we see the consequences of these accidents on the victims and the families. Through these articles, we aim to foster a safer community and provide support to those affected by such tragedies.
Our firm respects the privacy and dignity of those involved and is willing to amend or remove content at the request of affected parties. To contact us use 704-714-1450 or send us a message.
Raleigh, NC (May 08, 2025) - According to local news reports, a serious wrong-way crash on Interstate 40 in Raleigh left multiple individuals injured, including a 22-year-old Wake County resident now fighting for his life. The crash occurred Monday night around 8:26 p.m. on I-40 West near South Saunders Street, when police say a vehicle traveling the wrong direction struck another car head-on.
Authorities identified the wrong-way driver as 34-year-old Jose Lopez Sanchez. Police confirmed Sanchez was driving while impaired when he entered I-40 in the wrong direction, causing the crash that injured himself, a passenger in his vehicle, and the driver of the car he struck. Sanchez reportedly sustained minor injuries, while his passenger and the other driver both suffered serious injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
One of the victims, 22-year-old Kai Ritchie, remains hospitalized in critical condition after undergoing three surgeries at WakeMed. Ritchie was returning home from work in Knightdale and heading toward Cary when the crash occurred, just one day before his birthday.
Raleigh police charged Sanchez with multiple offenses including driving while impaired, felony serious injury by vehicle, and reckless driving. Authorities continue to investigate the crash.
All lanes of I-40 were closed for several hours and reopened at approximately 12:18 a.m. Tuesday.
Efforts to Prevent Future Wrong Way Crashes in Raleigh
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has acknowledged growing concerns over wrong-way driving incidents and is actively working on solutions to address the problem. In response to the crash, NCDOT highlighted ongoing efforts through its statewide Wrong Way Driving pilot program, launched in April 2024.
This initiative involves the installation of data-collecting cameras across high-risk corridors to monitor wrong-way driving behavior. According to NCDOT, the program is focused on collecting evidence and patterns rather than immediate intervention. However, the goal is to develop effective strategies that can reduce these incidents across North Carolina.
Between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2023, NCDOT reported 920 wrong-way crashes throughout the state, which resulted in nearly 1,200 injuries and 277 deaths.
Similar to safety features already implemented by the North Carolina Turnpike Authority, the pilot program could eventually lead to advanced warning systems. These include flashing lights and alert mechanisms that notify law enforcement the moment a vehicle enters a highway in the wrong direction.
Raleigh residents expressed support for these measures, suggesting that more visible signs and flashing alerts could help prevent tragic outcomes, especially for disoriented or impaired drivers. One local driver commented, “It seems to me the biggest problem is the alcohol, because it’s usually drugs or alcohol that cause people to go the wrong way.”
As this pilot project continues through 2026, data collected from these systems is expected to guide future safety upgrades, making roadways safer for all North Carolinians.
Why Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney in Raleigh, NC Matters
When someone suffers an injury in an accident, life can change in an instant. From medical appointments and missed work to the stress of dealing with insurance companies, it can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why working with a personal injury attorney in Raleigh, NC, can make such a big difference. These legal professionals focus on helping injured individuals understand their rights, recover damages, and deal with all the details that follow an accident.
Injury cases often involve more than just visible wounds. There are emotional and financial impacts too. A personal injury lawyer in Raleigh is equipped to look at the big picture. They help clients determine what compensation might be fair, whether it’s for medical bills, lost wages, or long-term recovery support. They also help gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and work with medical experts when necessary to build a strong case.
Choosing the right personal injury attorney in Raleigh, NC, means you’re not dealing with this alone. It’s about finding someone who knows the law and understands the local legal system. These attorneys take care of the paperwork, court filings, and insurance negotiations so that the injured party can focus on healing. Even if a case doesn’t go to court, having an attorney in your corner ensures you're taken seriously and treated fairly.
How a Raleigh Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help After an Accident
After an accident, people often have more questions than answers. Who will pay for medical treatment? What if the other party denies fault? Should you talk to the insurance company? A Raleigh personal injury lawyer can help you get clear answers to those questions. They know the common tactics used by insurance providers and can help protect you from unfair settlement offers.
These attorneys work hard to make sure each client gets a fair shake. Whether it’s a slip and fall, a vehicle crash, or another type of injury, their goal is to secure the compensation needed to move forward. They often operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning there’s no payment unless they recover money for you. That makes it easier for injured individuals to seek justice without worrying about upfront costs.
Having someone who can guide you through the legal process step by step provides peace of mind during a difficult time. And with a Raleigh personal injury lawyer on your side, you’re far more likely to get results that reflect what you’ve been through.
Working with a Raleigh Car Accident Lawyer After a Crash
Car accidents are one of the most common reasons people seek legal help in North Carolina. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision involving injuries, having a car accident lawyer in Raleigh can help you deal with the legal side of things while you recover. These attorneys understand how confusing and frustrating the aftermath of an accident can be. Their job is to handle the claims, negotiate with insurers, and make sure the victims aren’t left paying for someone else’s mistake.
Many people don’t realize how complicated car accident claims can be. Sometimes it’s hard to prove who was at fault or get insurance companies to cooperate. A Raleigh car accident lawyer works through those complications. They investigate the scene, review police reports, speak with witnesses, and communicate directly with adjusters to make sure everything is handled professionally and fairly.
These lawyers also help calculate what a case is really worth. Medical bills, car repairs, lost income, and even the pain caused by the accident are all considered when putting together a demand for compensation. The goal is to make sure clients are not left struggling to make ends meet because of someone else's carelessness.
Why a Car Accident Attorney in Raleigh, NC Is a Valuable Resource
Hiring a car accident attorney in Raleigh, NC, provides support from someone who truly understands both local traffic laws and the local court systems. This means faster and more efficient action, especially when time-sensitive evidence is involved. These lawyers also have experience dealing with serious crash cases like DUI or distracted driving incidents, which can involve more complex legal issues.
If you're facing long-term treatment or permanent injury, a Raleigh car accident attorney can also work with medical professionals and economists to determine how much your future care might cost. That way, the compensation you seek isn’t just for today’s bills but also for what lies ahead.
People often think hiring a lawyer means going to court, but that’s not always the case. In fact, many cases are resolved through settlements without ever entering a courtroom. However, if trial becomes necessary, having a local attorney who knows the process and has built your case from day one can make a huge difference in the outcome.
Why Rosensteel Fleishman is a Smart Choice for Car Accident Cases in Raleigh
Accidents like the one on I-40 are more than just collisions—they’re moments that change lives. Whether it’s dealing with physical recovery, emotional trauma, or the overwhelming task of handling insurance and legal claims, the aftermath of a serious crash can feel like too much to handle alone. That’s where having the right legal help in Raleigh can make all the difference.
The team at Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers understands how stressful these times are. They’ve worked with individuals and families throughout North Carolina, providing experienced guidance during some of their most difficult moments. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car crash in Raleigh, it’s helpful to know you’re not alone.
Starting the process is easier than most people think. With just a simple phone call to 1-704-714-1450, you can set up a free consultation and learn your options without pressure or obligation. This law firm isn’t just familiar with personal injury cases—they’ve handled many right here in Raleigh. They understand the local roads, hospitals, and court systems, which helps them advocate efficiently on behalf of their clients.
Why Legal Support is Important After a Personal Injury Accident
Getting the right legal support after a serious car accident in Raleigh can help ease the burden and guide you through what comes next. Legal teams like Rosensteel Fleishman are here to help people make sense of what happened and find the best steps forward for recovery.
Benefits of Hiring a North Carolina Injury Law Firm to Handle Your Raleigh Car Accident Case
When someone is involved in a crash, especially one involving serious injuries, there’s more to worry about than just hospital bills. There are medical appointments, time off work, vehicle repairs, and figuring out who’s responsible. A personal injury law firm in North Carolina can help handle all those moving pieces so victims can focus on healing.
The attorneys at Rosensteel Fleishman take care of everything from talking to insurance companies to building a strong case based on police reports, medical records, and witness statements. Their goal is to help clients get the compensation they need without unnecessary delays or confusion.
What Does a Raleigh Accident Lawyer Do? How Can They Help?
A Raleigh accident lawyer will break down the situation and explain what legal rights and options a victim has. They’ll work to determine fault, assess damages, and make sure the insurance companies aren’t taking advantage of the victim’s situation. This kind of support is especially helpful in crashes involving impaired or reckless drivers where the facts need to be clearly established.
When legal professionals are involved early, they can help preserve key evidence, consult with medical professionals, and negotiate directly with insurers to avoid drawn-out litigation.
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Be Helpful After a Car Accident in Raleigh, NC
In serious cases like the recent I-40 incident, personal injury attorneys may be the bridge between a long recovery and the ability to cover life’s expenses. When someone is dealing with multiple surgeries, ongoing therapy, or long hospital stays, legal teams can help pursue damages for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
A personal injury attorney in Raleigh, NC, can make the legal process feel less intimidating and give victims the time and peace of mind they need to heal properly.
How Rosensteel Fleishman Can Help Victims and Families Impacted by the I-40 Crash
The crash on I-40 involving Jose Lopez Sanchez and Kai Ritchie shows how quickly lives can be changed by a moment of impaired driving. When someone suffers life-threatening injuries due to another driver’s recklessness, the physical and emotional cost is just the beginning. Families often face mounting hospital bills, weeks or months away from work, and a long list of daily challenges as they support their loved one’s recovery.
This is where a firm like Rosensteel Fleishman can make a difference. Based in Charlotte and serving clients across North Carolina, they focus on supporting individuals affected by serious crashes just like this one. With experience in handling DUI-related injury cases and a deep understanding of how to prove liability in wrong-way collisions, they’re prepared to advocate for those who’ve been hurt through no fault of their own.
What makes Rosensteel Fleishman especially helpful is their ability to act quickly and thoroughly. From gathering police reports and medical records to negotiating with insurance providers, they help ensure that victims and their families aren’t left dealing with the fallout alone. Their compassionate approach means they understand what these families are going through and know how to push for fair outcomes that reflect the seriousness of the injuries and losses involved.
Choosing Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Accident & Injury Case in North Carolina
When life takes an unexpected turn, having the right legal team in your corner matters. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers, based in Charlotte, NC, helps individuals and families throughout North Carolina, including those in Raleigh, who have suffered serious injuries from car accidents. Their experience with impaired driving and wrong-way crash cases means they understand exactly what steps to take to protect your rights and get results.
Attorney Corey Rosensteel put it simply: “People want someone they can trust to handle the legal stress so they can focus on recovery. That’s what we aim to provide—clear answers, strong advocacy, and real support.”
Whether you’re facing long hospital stays or adjusting to new daily challenges after a crash, having a law firm that knows the terrain and cares about the outcome can bring peace of mind.
Start Your Free Consultation with a Raleigh Car Accident Attorney Today
If you or someone in your family was hurt in a car accident in Raleigh or anywhere in North Carolina, the road to recovery doesn’t have to be traveled alone. Rosensteel Fleishman offers clear, friendly legal help and a free consultation to talk through your situation. To learn your options, just call 1-704-714-1450. Their team is ready to help you take that first step toward clarity and compensation.
We value your feedback and are committed to maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and reliability of the information presented.
