What Is a Head-On Collision?

A head-on collision is one of the most dangerous types of car accidents you can experience. In these accidents, the front ends of two vehicles collide directly into each other. The force of this type of crash is usually much higher than in other accidents because both vehicles are often traveling at high speeds. Knowing what causes these accidents, the potential injuries, and what you should do if you’re involved can help you better handle the situation.

Causes of Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions often happen because of driver error. Common causes include driving while distracted, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and fatigue. Distracted driving is particularly common with the rise of smartphones, as drivers may take their eyes off the road to check a message or make a call. Intoxicated drivers have impaired judgment and slower reaction times, increasing the risk that they drift into oncoming traffic. Fatigued drivers may fall asleep at the wheel or experience a lapse in attention.

Poor road conditions and weather can also contribute to head-on collisions. Roads that are not well-maintained may have potholes or lack clear lane markings, increasing the risk of a driver veering into the wrong lane. Weather conditions such as heavy rain, fog, or ice can make it more difficult for a driver to control their vehicle and stay within their lane.

Common Injuries from Head-On Collisions

The injuries sustained in head-on collisions can be severe and life-altering. Common injuries include head injuries, neck injuries, and spinal cord injuries. You might experience traumatic brain injuries (TBI) if your head hits the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield. These injuries can range from concussions to severe brain damage, impacting your ability to think, move, and function normally.

Neck injuries, including whiplash, occur when your head is suddenly jolted forward and backward. This can damage the soft tissues in your neck and lead to chronic pain and limited mobility. Spinal cord injuries can result in paralysis, either partial or complete, depending on the severity of the injury and where it occurs along your spine.

What to Do After a Head-On Collision

If you are involved in a head-on collision, your first priority should be to seek medical attention. Adrenaline can mask pain, and symptoms of certain injuries, like TBIs, can take hours or days to manifest. Getting a thorough medical examination can help ensure that all injuries are diagnosed and treated promptly.

After addressing your immediate medical needs, you should document the accident. Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions. Gather contact details from any witnesses and the other driver involved. This can be crucial if you need to file an insurance claim or if there are legal proceedings.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies after a head-on collision can be challenging. Insurance companies may try to settle your claim quickly and for as little money as possible. It’s important to review any settlement offers carefully and consider the full extent of your injuries and the impact on your life before accepting any offer.

You should also be cautious about what you say to insurance adjusters. They may ask questions in a way that tries to minimize the severity of your injuries or your ability to work. Stick to the facts and avoid making statements about who was at fault until all the details of the accident are clear.

In some cases, insurance companies do not offer a reasonable settlement offer. In these cases, filing a lawsuit might be the next step.

Lawsuits Over Head-On Collision Cases

Filing a lawsuit after a head-on collision can be a complex and lengthy process, but it may be necessary to secure fair compensation for your injuries and losses. In these cases, you typically seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.

Your lawyer will help gather evidence to support your claim, including police reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony. Establishing liability is crucial, and your attorney will work to prove that the other driver’s negligence caused the accident.

Once a lawsuit is filed, the discovery phase begins, where both parties exchange information and evidence. Settlement negotiations often occur during this time, and many cases are resolved without going to trial. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to court, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.

Pursuing a lawsuit can be daunting, but with the right legal support, you can navigate the process and seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries and suffering.

Contact Los Angeles Head-On Collision Lawyer Samer Habbas

If you or a loved one has been injured in a head-on collision in Los Angeles, you may have legal rights and options to consider. It’s important to discuss your situation with an experienced car accident lawyer who can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of seeking compensation for your injuries and losses. To get started, contact Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates, PC head-on collision attorneys by calling 949-727-9300 or contacting us online for a consultation.