An Analysis of Head-On Collision

Head-on collisions occur more often than we want them to, resulting in deaths and injuries. For instance, this type of crash accounted for at least 10% of all fatal vehicular accidents in 2020. The estimated number of deaths caused by head-on collisions is 3,631, with thousands of other injuries the rest of the year.

A head-on collision is undoubtedly a very serious type of car accident; below is everything you need to know about it. This article will define head-on collisions, who is at fault, the common causes, and how to get due compensation.

Definition of a head-on collision

A head-on collision occurs when two cars, usually in opposite directions, hit each other directly from the front in a full frontal collision. It can also occur when a vehicle rams into a stationary object like a road barrier or telephone pole.

Due to this direct collision, a substantial amount of force is produced in this type of car accident. Therefore, they tend to be the most dangerous form of accident on the road.

Causes of head-on collisions

Several things can cause head-on collisions, including driving wrongly on one-way roads or highways. Below are some of the most common potential causes of head-on collisions:

• DUI: A driver driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can behave unsafely and run straight into other vehicles
• Distracted driving: A distracted driver can also cause a head-on collision because their attention is not on the road or driving
• Impaired driving: A tired driver, for instance, can lose control of their car and collide into another vehicle
• Illegal passing on roads can also result in a head-on collision with another driver driving in the opposite direction
• Reckless driving: Reckless drivers can potentially lose control of their vehicle and crash into stationary objects or, worse, opposing traffic

Head-on collisions: who is often at fault?

“More often than not, at least one of the drivers involved in a head-on collision is responsible for the crash. For example, a drunk or sleepy driver can leave their lane and crash into another, causing a collision.” According to Felix Gonzalez of Felix Gonzalez Accident and Injury Law firm, “motorists are at fault in head-on accidents if they’ve caused or contributed to them.”

Sometimes, the people themselves who design the roads are responsible if any head-on collision occurs. For example, there could be clearer roadways or inadequate signage on the road, thus resulting in head-on collisions. A vehicle manufacturer can also take the blame if a fault with the vehicle caused the crash.

How to get due compensation as a victim of a head-on crash

If you were a victim of this type of crash, you might want to hire legal help immediately. If the crash was not your fault, you could get compensated for all losses incurred. Meanwhile, losses incurred in this type of crash tend to be substantial, considering the severity of the injuries involved.

You can get compensation through settlement if the other driver and their insurer accept responsibility for the crash. If they do not, you can proceed to court, in which case you need the help of an experienced attorney. 

Conclusion

Head-on collisions are among the most serious accidents, with severe injuries attached, including multiple fatalities. If you were a victim in this type of crash, you could receive compensation through a court verdict or settlement. In addition, you have a right to be compensated for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.