Our car accident attorneys have helped clients after a wide range of collisions, but those involved in head-on car accidents are among the most devastating. These victims are typically suffering from life-changing injuries and the total loss of their vehicles, and may even be grieving the loss of a loved one in the crash. In order to protect their right to financial recovery, it is important for victims to understand why head-on collisions occur, as well as the steps to take after an accident.
Common Causes of Head-On Car Accidents
A head-on accident occurs when a vehicle crosses the center line or median, and collides with the front end of an approaching vehicle. While a head-on crash may happen for a number of reasons, some of the most common causes include:
- Confusion over direction of travel. A driver who is unfamiliar with the area may merge onto a motorway in the wrong direction, enter a one-way lane, or exit a roundabout into oncoming traffic.
- Distracted driving. Texting, making and taking calls, or otherwise using a mobile phone while driving can easily cause a driver to drift into another lane or to lose control of the vehicle.
- Impaired driving. Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol are more likely to speed and take risks, while drowsy drivers may become disoriented or fall asleep at the wheel.
- Failed passing maneuvers. A driver may not properly judge the distance of oncoming cars before attempting to overtake the vehicle ahead, colliding with a vehicle in the opposite lane.
- Poor roadway design. Narrow lanes and roads with sharp curves can increase the risk of a head-on collision, especially if a driver is speeding.
- Hazards on the road. Potholes, spilled gravel, or fallen debris on the motorway can cause a driver to swerve into the opposite lane.
- Defective car parts. A sudden loss of steering or a tyre blowout can cause the loss of control that leads to a head-on collision. In cases like these, the automaker or auto parts manufacturer may be liable for injury costs.
Potential Injuries in a Head-On Crash
A head-to-head crash combines the momentum of both vehicles, sending the full force of impact directly into each driver. This causes a tremendous amount of damage to cars and their occupants, increasing the chance of serious injuries such as:
- Brain injuries. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can cause long-term complications, personality changes, or even leave the patient in a persistent vegetative state.
- Broken bones. Car accidents commonly cause fractures in the ribs, pelvis, vertebrae, clavicle, arms, ribs, and the bones of the face. Recovery for bone fractures may require surgery and immobilisation, followed by physical rehabilitation to stretch and tone the affected limb.
- Neck and shoulder injuries. The flailing of the head and arms during impact can neck damage the joints, ligaments, and other structures of the neck. Fractures or nerve compression in the shoulder can cause pain to radiate down into the arm, causing tingling or numbness in the hand and fingers.
- Crush injuries. A passenger’s limbs may become trapped as the front end of the car crumples in the impact, causing crush injuries. These injuries will usually result in surgery to remove bone fragments and control bleeding, and may even require limb amputation.
- Spinal cord injury. Trauma to the spinal cord interrupts the sending of messages between the brain and the body. A victim may suffer partial or total loss of sensation and motor function below the location of the injury.
- Wrongful death. In some cases, passengers may not be able to recover from the injuries sustained in a head-on crash. If you have suffered the tragic loss of a loved one, you may be entitled to make a claim for your family’s financial or economic losses.
If you have been hurt or if you have lost a loved one in a head-on collision, we can collect the necessary evidence and advocate for your fair recovery. At Conway Accident Law Practice, our attorneys share the risk of your case in our no-win, no-fee pledge, paying court fees out of our own pockets until we secure compensation. Call us today at 0800 009 6953 or fill out our enquiry form to set up your no-obligation chat with a member of our legal team.
|
Related Links: |