Head-On Collision Accidents

Did you know that the number of car crash injuries reported in the state of California in the year 2021 was close to 3,786?

We hear about car accidents almost every day. But it is only when we are involved in one that we realize that unexpected things can happen to any of us. Even if you are an experienced and careful driver, you can find yourself in a head-on collision through no fault of your own.

When another truck or car is barreling toward you, it can be one of the most terrifying feelings. But what do you do after? How do you get compensation for damages after a head-on collision accident? We understand that this is an unfamiliar territory for most people, which is why we, at Krasney Law, are here to help you navigate the process of filing a personal injury lawsuit. If you or your loved one has been involved in such an accident, you can get expert consultation from our experienced Accident Attorneys today!

When two cars are driving towards each other, this results in a head-on collision. One approaching car and a stopped car collide with each other head-on or both cars are moving towards each other without realizing it. The consequences of such collisions between the front parts of both cars can be devastating. In many cases, head-on collisions result in serious injuries and even death. It is important to seek medical attention immediately following a head-on collision accident.

Head-on car accidents can do massive amounts of damage to both your vehicle and the passengers inside. At Krasney Law, our lawyers are quick to fully investigate the scene of your accident in order to properly uncover all of the critical evidence you will need to build a solid case against all negligent parties. Our car accident lawyers know how to obtain compensation for you so you can move on with your life.

FARS Head-On Collision Statistics

For any reason, a head-on collision is caused by the accidental movement of two cars colliding front bumper to front bumper. The driver could have been trying to pass another vehicle on a two-lane road or could have been driving negligently and moved to the lane of traffic coming from the opposite side. In the end, it does not matter, if the driver was negligent they are at fault. Statistics collected by the Fatal Analysis Reporting System (FARS) brings out the following facts:

• They happen most frequently on two-lane roads.
• A small percentage was caused by a driver was trying to pass another vehicle.
• Failure in negotiating a curve on the road is a cause of 23 percent of fatal head-on collisions.
• 75% of all head-on collisions occur on rural roads

The FARS data brings out the fact that many head-on collisions result from unexpected moves of a driver. Some major causes of head-on collisions include:

• Distracted driving
• Not following the speed limit
• Negotiating a curve
• Falling asleep at the wheel

Over correction & How It Causes Accidents

While driving on the road you for long periods of time you may have accidentally veered too far to the left or right, resulting in your tires going off the road. This is a terrifying situation that may affect even experienced drivers. Drivers normally pull the steering wheel to the left as a reaction to the situation. This is an impulsive reaction of drivers that may only worsen the situation. In the driving world, there are many situations when overcorrection can cause the vehicle to encroach into the opposing lane and head straight into oncoming traffic, or the vehicle may roll over. In any scenario, it is best to move slow and calmly at all times.

What is a Head-On Collision?

Also known as a frontal crash, a head-on collision is a type of vehicular crash that occurs when two vehicles collide with one another. Head-on collisions are not just limited to cars either. If your vehicle crashes with a motorbike, truck, or even a tree, cement barrier, or light pole, it will also be classified as a head-on collision. Although injuries can result from any car accident, research has shown that head-on collisions can result in even more severe (and sometimes fatal) injuries. According to a Federal Highway Administration report, frontal crashes are reportedly the most harmful accidents in 14% of all US traffic injuries and fatalities.

What Are The Common Causes of Head-On Collisions In California?

Frontal collisions are common everywhere, but they usually occur on roads with poor lighting, narrow lanes, and no traffic dividers or guardrails. Some of the common causes behind head-on collisions are –

1. Dangerous or defective roads
2. Drunk driving
3. Driving with distractions like texting, etc.
4. Driving when drowsy
5. Bad weather conditions like fog, rain, etc,
6. Driving in the wrong direction.
7. Passing other cars in an unsafe manner
8. Driving in construction zones and hazardous areas
9. When the driver is a senior.

While there are many external factors that can lead to a head-on collision, the one thing common among most head-on collisions is negligence. This negligence can be on the part of the other driver, government agency, or any third party. In such cases, victims or family members of the victim can file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for the damages.

What Are Some Injuries from Head-On Collision?

If you are involved in a head-on collision, you might suffer from both physical and emotional pain. Besides this, you will also have to deal with the medical bills that will accumulate as a result of the injuries. Here are some of the major injuries that can be caused by head-on collisions –

1. Whiplash: If you are wearing a seatbelt during a head-on collision, the impact of the crash can cause your head to move forward while the body will stay in place. The sudden jerk experienced as a result of this motion is called a whiplash. In this type of injury, the muscles, ligaments, and tendons end up stretching outside their normal limit. This can result in a host of issues like dizziness, headaches, weakness, blurred vision, numbness, and pain.

2. TBI or Traumatic Brain Injury: When a vehicle is involved in a frontal collision, the driver’s head can end up crashing into the steering wheel. If the skull gets fractured in the process, it can result in a Traumatic Brain Injury or TBI. In severe crashes, sometimes the brain gets pushed against the inner wall of the skull, which can also cause major brain injuries. Depending on the severity of the crash, it can take a person a long time to recover from such traumatic brain injuries.

3. Spinal Cord Injury: If the impact from a frontal collision is pretty strong, it can cause the discs in the spinal cord to become compressed. This can result in spinal cord injuries like ruptured or herniated discs or damaged vertebrae. In some cases, spinal cord injuries can also lead to partial or full paralysis of the torso, legs, or limbs. In such injuries, it’s important to get immediate treatment to increase the chances of recovery.

4. Broken Facial Bones: Airbags are usually deployed in head-on collisions. If the collision is much too strong, the airbags can end up crushing the facial bone structure. The result can be major injuries to the jawbone, eye sockets, chin, and cheeks. In facial bone injuries, plastic surgery might be required to restore the face to its normal shape.5. Blunt Force Trauma: Blunt force trauma is another common injury in head-on collision accidents. These injuries can occur even if a person is wearing seatbelts and is protected with airbags. Blunt force trauma injuries usually occur in the chest area, often resulting in damaged shoulder joints and lungs, broken ribs, and more. Since these are internal injuries, a person doesn’t immediately realize they’ve been injured. This is why it is best to get medical attention promptly after a head-on collision.

How do you know if your case qualifies for compensation?

If you are involved in a head-on collision, the only way you can obtain compensation for the damages is by presenting proof of negligence. Here is how it is done –

1. Show that the other driver was required to uphold the duty of care they owe to everyone to avoid injuries from occurring in the first place.
2. Prove how the at-fault driver breached this duty of care and was involved in risky and unlawful behavior.
3. Provide proof that it was the driver’s fault that led to the injury.

After all of this is said and done, you will be asked to give a monetary estimate of the damages and losses incurred because of the accident.

Contact Krasney Law After A Head-On Collision!

If you are involved in a head-on collision accident and want to receive the right compensation for your losses, reach out to the experienced Accident Attorneys at Krasney Law. It’s important to understand that the insurance company will always look for ways to blame you for the accident since their primary goal is to make profits. With our tenacious Accident Attorneys by your side, you can hold the insurance company accountable and get what you owe in terms of monetary damages.

Call Krasney Law at (909) 380-7200 or fill out our online contact form. We offer free consultations in all personal injury cases and you never pay attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.