Head-on car collisions are among the most devastating accidents, often resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. If you’re reading this, you may have been involved in one of these crashes, or perhaps a loved one was. Knowing the emotional and physical pain you’re likely enduring, you deserve support and answers.
When another driver’s negligence leads to such a life-altering event, you likely qualify to obtain compensation from the at-fault parties. However, successfully navigating a car accident claim requires in-depth legal knowledge, skill, and the resources necessary to build a strong claim.
Hiring a car accident lawyer is one of the most important decisions you can make after such an event. An experienced attorney can help guide you through the legal process and work to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages you may be dealing with. Contact a Aurora car accident lawyer today for a free consultation.
Head-On Car Collisions Guide
- Common Causes of Head-On Collisions
- Typical Injuries Resulting from Head-On Collisions
- Legal Considerations in Head-On Collision Cases
- Steps to Take After a Head-On Collision
- Compensation in Head-On Collision Cases
- Importance of Legal Representation
- Contact a Knowledgeable and Compassionate Head-On Car Accident Attorney Now
Understanding Head-On Car Crashes in Colorado
Head-on collisions occur when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions crash into each other. While not the most common type of accident, they are often the most deadly due to the combined speed and force at impact. These collisions result in significant damage to vehicles and severe harm to those inside.
In the United States, head-on collisions make up a small percentage of car accidents but account for a disproportionately high number of fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), head-on crashes represent only about 2% of all accidents but cause over 10% of traffic fatalities nationwide. In Colorado, the situation is equally concerning. Colorado saw over 630 fatalities in traffic-related incidents in a recent year, with many involving head-on collisions on rural roads, highways, and in mountainous areas where there is often less room for drivers to correct their mistakes.
Common Causes of Head-On Collisions
Head-on car collisions typically happen due to driver error, but multiple factors can contribute to these tragic accidents. Let’s explore some of the more frequent causes.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of all car accidents, including head-on collisions. When drivers take their eyes off the road, whether due to texting, adjusting the radio, or even eating, they risk drifting into the opposite lane. A split second of distraction can lead to catastrophic results.
Drunk Driving
Impaired drivers are less likely to maintain control of their vehicles, increasing the chances of veering into oncoming traffic. Alcohol or drug impairment dramatically slows reaction times and can cause misjudgment of distance and speed. Drunk drivers are often at fault in head-on crashes due to their inability to stay within their lane.
Fatigue
Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Fatigue causes delayed reactions, impaired judgment, and can even lead to drivers falling asleep at the wheel. It’s not uncommon for head-on collisions to occur when a driver, exhausted and unaware, drifts across the centerline.
Improper Passing
Aggressive or illegal passing maneuvers on two-lane roads are a significant risk factor. When a driver attempts to overtake another vehicle without enough space or clear visibility of oncoming traffic, the chances of a head-on collision increase exponentially.
Typical Injuries Resulting from Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions almost always lead to severe injuries due to the force of impact. These injuries can have a long-lasting impact on your quality of life and ability to work. Here are some of the most common injuries people suffer from in these accidents.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Head-on collisions often cause severe head trauma, leading to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). TBIs range from concussions to more serious conditions like brain bleeding or swelling. Even mild TBIs can result in memory issues, concentration problems, and personality changes, while severe cases may require lifelong care.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The violent impact of a head-on collision can damage the spinal cord, resulting in partial or full paralysis. Whether temporary or permanent, spinal cord injuries drastically change the course of life, affecting mobility, independence, and daily functioning.
Chest and Abdominal Trauma
Drivers and passengers often sustain chest injuries from steering wheels, dashboards, or seatbelts. These injuries can range from broken ribs to internal bleeding or damage to organs like the lungs or heart. Severe trauma to the chest or abdomen may require immediate surgery and prolonged recovery.
Fractures and Orthopedic Injuries
Broken bones are another common outcome of head-on crashes. Fractures in the arms, legs, and pelvis can be particularly debilitating, sometimes requiring surgery, physical therapy, or months of rehabilitation.
Psychological Trauma
In addition to physical injuries, many people experience long-term psychological effects after a head-on collision. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are common. These can be just as debilitating as physical injuries, affecting one’s ability to work, drive, or engage in daily activities.
Legal Considerations in Head-On Collision Cases
The legal aspects of a head-on car collision case involve more than just filing a claim. Several factors must be considered to ensure that those responsible for the crash are held accountable.
Determining Fault
Establishing fault in a head-on collision is critical for any legal claim. The evidence gathered from police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstructions will play a large role in determining who was responsible. Whether a driver was impaired, distracted, or illegally passing, this information helps assign liability.
Comparative Negligence
Colorado follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you are partially at fault for the accident, as long as your share of the blame doesn’t exceed 50%. However, the total amount of compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Potential Defendants
While the other driver is usually the primary defendant in head-on collision cases, there may be additional parties who bear some responsibility. For instance, government entities could be liable if dangerous road conditions or poor signage contributed to the crash. Vehicle manufacturers may also be held accountable if a defect in the car’s design or a mechanical failure played a role.
Steps to Take After a Head-On Collision
Knowing what to do after a head-on collision can make all the difference in your ability to get the compensation you deserve. However, the steps you take depend on where you are in the process.
If the crash just occurred, moving to a safe location and getting medical attention is the priority. Call 911 to report the accident, ensure all involved parties receive help, and cooperate with authorities when they arrive.
For those already dealing with the aftermath of the crash—whether you’re in the hospital or at home recovering—the focus shifts to your next steps in securing compensation. You’ve already received medical care and filed reports, but now you may be facing mounting expenses and a long road to recovery. This is the moment to contact a car accident lawyer who can help you begin the legal process of seeking compensation. A lawyer will assist with gathering evidence, speaking to insurance companies, and advocating on your behalf while you focus on healing.
Compensation in Head-On Collision Cases
The financial and personal impact of a head-on collision can last for years. That’s why pursuing compensation is so critical. You shouldn’t have to bear the burden of someone else’s negligence.
Medical Expenses
One of the most immediate concerns after an accident is paying for medical care. Hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and medication can quickly add up. Compensation should cover not only current bills but also future medical expenses if your injuries require ongoing treatment.
Lost Wages
Severe injuries often mean missed work, which leads to lost income. Whether your injuries prevent you from returning to work for weeks or force you to stop working altogether, compensation should account for your lost wages and any impact on your future earning potential.
Pain and Suffering
Beyond the financial cost of injuries, there’s also the personal toll they take. Physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment in life deserve compensation as well. While harder to quantify, pain and suffering are real consequences of a head-on collision, and your attorney can help you pursue damages for them.
Property Damage
The damage to your vehicle is another financial burden. Compensation should cover repair costs or the full value of your vehicle if it’s a total loss, as well as any other property damaged in the crash.
Wrongful Death Damages
If the head-on collision killed a close family member, you may qualify to receive wrongful death damages. An attorney can determine whether you’re eligible and help you navigate a wrongful death claim or lawsuit. You could recover compensation for funeral and burial costs and final medical expenses. You may also receive compensation for loss of income and support your loved one provided.
Punitive Damages in Egregious Cases
In cases where the other driver’s actions were particularly reckless, such as driving under the influence, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These damages are meant to punish the at-fault driver and deter similar behavior in the future.
Importance of Legal Representation
The process of seeking compensation after a head-on collision involves dealing with insurance companies, gathering evidence, and sometimes even going to court. Having an attorney on your side is invaluable for several reasons.
Navigating Complex Insurance Claims
Insurance companies are notorious for minimizing payouts or denying claims altogether. An attorney knows how to deal with insurers who refuse to offer fair settlements and can help ensure you receive what you’re entitled to.
Ensuring Fair Compensation
Without legal guidance, it’s easy to underestimate the true cost of your injuries and losses. A lawyer will take into account future medical bills, lost earning potential, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering to help secure a fair settlement.
Handling Negotiations and Potential Litigation
If the insurance company or at-fault party refuses to take responsibility, legal representation becomes even more essential. Your lawyer will handle negotiations on your behalf and, if necessary, take the case to court to seek the compensation you deserve.
Preventing Head-On Collisions
While you cannot control the actions of other drivers, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of a head-on collision. These steps won’t eliminate all risks, but they can significantly lower your chances of being involved in a crash.
Defensive Driving Techniques
Defensive driving means being aware of potential hazards on the road and taking proactive steps to avoid them. This includes keeping a safe distance between you and other vehicles, being cautious when approaching intersections, and staying alert for reckless drivers. Defensive drivers also avoid distractions like using their phones and limit risky behavior like speeding or tailgating. When driving on two-lane roads, always be cautious of vehicles in the oncoming lane, especially if you notice signs of swerving or erratic driving.
Importance of Following Traffic Laws
Obeying traffic laws may sound basic, but it’s essential for reducing the chances of a head-on collision. Speed limits exist to ensure that drivers have adequate time to react in case of unexpected hazards. Ignoring them reduces reaction time and makes it harder to avoid collisions. Stay within your lane, respect passing rules, and always yield the right of way when required.
Vehicle Safety Features to Consider
Modern vehicles come equipped with advanced safety technologies that can help prevent or mitigate the severity of a head-on collision. Lane departure warning systems, automatic emergency braking, and collision avoidance systems are increasingly common in newer vehicles and provide an extra layer of safety. Investing in a vehicle with these features could help protect you and your passengers in the event of a crash.
Contact a Knowledgeable and Compassionate Head-On Car Accident Attorney Now
If you suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a head-on collision someone else caused, you must take immediate action to protect your rights and interests. The Colorado car accident attorneys at Franklin D. Azar & Associates, P.C. have the experience and dedication needed to handle these complex cases. We understand the hardships you’re facing, and we’re here to help you pursue the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
A legal consultation with Franklin D. Azar & Associates is completely free, and our team is ready to listen, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the justice you deserve. Let us shoulder the legal burden while you focus on healing and rebuilding your life. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
