Head-on collisions are one of the worst types of car accidents, especially at high speeds. When vehicles strike each other from the front, the crash’s impact can result in horrific injuries for the driver and passengers and severe damage to the vehicle. Unfortunately, a head-on collision can also lead to fatalities. If you have suffered a head-on collision in Augusta, GA, or nearby cities, you can contact our Augusta personal injury lawyer at T. Madden & Associates, P.C., to get compensation for your damages.
Causes of Head-On Collisions
According to statistics, only two percent of car crashes are head-on collisions, but they account for more than ten percent of all driving fatalities. This shows the danger posed by a head-on collision. There are many reasons that can cause a head-on collision; one of the most common reasons is distracted driving, when the driver is not paying attention to the road or oncoming traffic. Common distractions include texting, eating, drinking, talking on the cell phone, attempting to grab an item, or talking with other passengers in the vehicle. Other common causes of a head-on collision are illegal maneuvers while driving, driver fatigue, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Common Injuries of Head-On Collisions
Depending on the severity of the head-on crash, the victims can suffer different types of injuries. You can minimize the chances of an injury by wearing a seatbelt, ensuring your vehicle’s airbags are functional, and following safe driving practices. However, even with your best efforts, the wrongdoing or negligence of another driver can result in a head-on collision. Here are the most common injuries in a head-on collision:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): The head can be thrown back and forth in a head-on collision resulting in head or brain injuries. It can also result in whiplash, which is common in severe car accidents.
- Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord injuries from a head-on collision can result in full or partial paralysis.
- Internal injuries: The impact of a head-on collision can result in damage to the kidneys, liver, spleen, and other internal organs.
- Back injuries: Back injuries such as herniated discs or fractured are common in head-on collisions.
- Leg injuries: The legs might have to absorb the impact of a head-on collision resulting in broken bones, fractures, and soft tissue damage.
What To Do After a Head-On Collision
Your first step should be to call for emergency care so all those who need medical attention can get it as soon as possible. Then, after your condition has stabilized, you should contact a car accident attorney to help you get compensation for your damages. The attorney can also guide you on steps to get full and fair compensation for your damages. You should not speak to the other party’s insurance company or lawyers until you have consulted with your attorney. In addition, you should not accept compensation from them, as they might pressure you to accept an unreasonably low offer.
Average Settlement of a Head-On Collision
As the severity of the head-on collision can vary, there is no “average” settlement amount. However, the settlement amount could range from a few thousand dollars to millions. Several factors must be considered when determining the average settlement amount, including the share of the driver’s fault, the severity of the injuries, and more.
Compensation for Head-On Collisions
If you suffered damages due to someone else’s fault, you might be entitled to receive compensation for your loss. This includes economic and non-economic damages.
Physical Injuries
If you have suffered physical injuries from a head-on collision, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation, physical therapy, ongoing treatment, and future medical expenses.
Pain and Suffering
Along with compensation for physical injuries, you may also be entitled to the pain and suffering you have endured due to the head-on collision. The compensation for pain and suffering could require complicated calculations; however, an experienced attorney can guide you through it.
Vehicle Damage
You can seek compensation for all types of property damage, including damage to your vehicle due to the accident. This includes the cost of repairs or replacement of your car. It is best to keep track of your expense for property damage as evidence for an insurance claim or court case.
Other Expenses
You may also be entitled to expenses such as lost income, necessary modifications to your home or vehicle, loss of earning capacity, and more.
Contact an Attorney
Determining fault in a head-on collision can be challenging, as both vehicles could show similar damages, and there might not be any witnesses or surveillance footage of the accident.
However, you can get the assistance of a car accident attorney to help establish liability for the head-on collision. They are experienced in such cases and have the resources to help you get a favorable verdict in court and get maximum compensation in your claim with the insurance company. We welcome you to contact us at T. Madden & Associates, P.C. to schedule a consultation with one of our expert lawyers.