Head-on collisions are deadly crashes. Because of the high-speed nature of head-ons and the limited amount of reaction time afforded to other drivers facing a driver who veered into their lane, if the injuries aren’t fatal, they are often catastrophic and cause significant damages.
Nearly one-fifth of non-interchange, non-junction auto accident fatalities occur in head-on accidents, according to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). Driver distractions and reckless driving may cause these serious accidents, but there are many other causes as well. In the event of a head-on collision, accident victims can file a lawsuit to hold the negligent driver liable for damages. Ron Meyers & Associates can help, so call us at 844-920-2438.
Causes of Head-on Collisions
Often, the cause of head-on collisions is related to driver distraction. When a driver reaches for an object on the floor, texts or talks on the phone, or is distracted by kids in the backseat, he or she inadvertently may veer into the other lane.
The following also can cause or contribute to head-on collision accidents.
- Driving while intoxicated
- Speeding
- Swerving to avoid debris or an animal in the road
- Driving in the wrong direction
- Driving while sleepy or fatigued
- Taking turns at too high of a speed
- Slippery roads due to ice, sleet and rain
- General loss of control of vehicle, such as from tire failure
- Unsafe passing or overtaking another car
Common Injuries Drivers Suffer in Head-on Accidents
The sheer force and crushing impact of head-on collisions claim the lives of many drivers and passengers. If victims are not killed, they can sustain serious, debilitating injuries, such as those listed below.
- Spinal cord injuries (leading to permanent paralysis)
- Skull fractures and traumatic brain injuries
- Back and neck injuries
- Fractures and crushing injuries
- Amputation
- Severe burns from car fires and explosions
- Lacerations
- Facial injuries, scarring and disfigurement
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
Seeking Compensation for Damages Related to Your Accident
When innocent people are injured because of a driver’s negligence or carelessness, they can sue the responsible party to recover damages from the accident. If your loved one died in a head-on collision caused by another driver or by some type of defect (like faulty tires), you can speak to an attorney about filing a wrongful death claim.
You may recover a settlement that covers your or your loved one’s medical bills and funeral expenses, as well as financial and emotional damages related to your accident or losing your loved one. In addition to economic damages, you can collect financial compensation for mental anguish and pain and suffering.
In order to file a successful case, you must establish that the other driver was negligent. This may include unsafe passing, speeding, distracted driving or other reckless driving practices. You also must prove that negligent behavior led to the accident and thus your injuries. Finally, your claim for damages must establish that you suffered damages as a result of the accident and your injuries.
Our Accident Lawyers at Ron Meyers & Associates Can Help
If you or your loved one has been in a head-on collision, you are welcome to call our injury lawyers at Ron Meyers & Associates PLLC for a free, no-obligation consultation. Contact us today at 844-920-2438.
