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Head-on car accidents are less common than other types of vehicle collisions. However, they are among the most violent – and many are fatal. The extreme forces that result when the front of two cars crash into each other can instantly cause debilitating injuries.
At Marks & Harrison, we have over 100 years of experience helping our clients recover after life-changing accidents. We understand the devastation of head-on collisions and the catastrophic injuries they can cause. Call or contact us online today for a free consultation to learn how our team can help you.
What Is a Head-On Collision?
A head-on accident occurs when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide with each other’s front bumpers. Head-on collisions can also involve one vehicle crashing into a stationary object, such as a telephone pole. The force of the impact can crumple the front hood like paper and trap the occupants inside the car.
What Are Some Causes of Head-On Collisions in Richmond?
Head-on car crashes often result from driver error and inattention. One motorist’s negligent actions can cause them to drift into oncoming traffic or travel the wrong way down a one-way street.
Common forms of negligence that lead to head-on collisions include:
- Merging into the opposite lane into the path of oncoming traffic
- Driving under the influence of alcohol
- Taking a turn too wide into the wrong lane
- Distracted driving
- Passing other vehicles without checking for approaching cars
- Driving while tired or falling asleep at the wheel
- Speeding or driving too fast in dangerous weather or road conditions
What Are Common Injuries from Head-On Collisions?
When two vehicles collide, they stop abruptly. But the occupants’ bodies continue moving forward until something such as an airbag or seatbelt stops them. The sudden stopping motion could cause severe injuries to the torso, head, and other body parts. Unrestrained motorists could be ejected, crashing through the windshield and landing on the hard pavement.
Head-on accidents cause some of the most severe and life-threatening injuries, including:
- Loss of limb
- Paralysis
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Internal bleeding
- Broken bones
- Significant lacerations
- Permanent disability
- Back and neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Disfigurement and scarring
Why Are Head-On Collisions More Violent Than Other Collisions?
Whether one motorist jumps the median on a highway or travels the wrong way down a one-way road, when the fronts of two cars forcefully strike each other, devastation can result.
The crash can destroy the front of one or both cars, potentially crushing the front seat occupants or trapping them between their seats and the crumpled metal. Depending on the speeds of each vehicle, the damage can cause instant fatalities or flying debris that impales the drivers and passengers.
Head-on accidents create extreme forces and motions that the human body can’t handle, unlike other collisions. The weight and speed of each vehicle determine the force with which the vehicles collide.
The abrupt and sudden change in momentum of a head-on collision can cause fractured bones and whiplash. The impact can also cause the driver to hit their head on the steering wheel or a passenger’s head to strike the side window.
What Should I Do After a Crash?
You should immediately go to the hospital after a head-on crash. Don’t wait to seek treatment, even if the collision appears to only cause minor injuries. Let an ambulance transport you to the hospital if you can’t drive.
An emergency room physician can examine you to determine the type and extent of your injury. They might recommend follow-up care or ongoing treatment as part of the recovery plan. You must follow their recommendations and regularly attend your appointments.
Although you might think the insurance company will accommodate your needs and pay the compensation you deserve, their goal is to reduce the value of your claim or deny it entirely. Evidence of inadequate or inconsistent treatment might be what the insurer needs to avoid a significant payout.
You’re not required to create a pain journal, but starting one can benefit your case. Document your injuries and symptoms from day one. If you haven’t started one, don’t worry. You can begin to take notes now and describe every symptom you experience in detail. Mention whether your pain worsens during specific activities and if your injuries prevent you from working or completing basic tasks.
You should also maintain records related to the crash. Keep copies of your billing statements, doctor’s notes, physical therapy reports, and other documentation while treating your injury. Your medical records can serve as helpful evidence.
You might think you can handle your claim without legal representation. However, you should hire a Richmond head-on collision lawyer from Marks & Harrison immediately. We have the necessary experience and resources to build a case against the negligent driver and aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve.
What Compensation Can I Receive for My Injuries and Damages?
Multiple factors can contribute to the monetary value of your case, including the severity of your injury, total medical bills, any future medical care for permanent injuries, and lingering emotional effects of the crash.
The money you recover in a claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party might compensate you for:
- Emergency room visits, hospital stays, rehab, and other healthcare costs
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
What If I Am Partly Responsible for the Head-On Accident?
Virginia’s pure contributory negligence doctrine prohibits financial recovery if a plaintiff shares any responsibility for an accident. That means the jury can prevent you from recovering compensation if they determine you bear even the slightest percentage of fault for your injuries.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident Lawsuit in Virginia?
In Virginia, the statute of limitations for car accidents typically allows a two-year timeframe to file a lawsuit. That means you have two years from the crash date to begin your lawsuit against the negligent motorist.
Contact a Richmond, VA Head-On Collision Lawyer
A head-on car accident can disrupt your daily routine and life. Severe injuries require ongoing medical care and time away from work to heal. The devastation of a head-on collision can have long-lasting consequences.
Marks & Harrison has a team of in-house investigators and over 100 support personnel to handle your case and pursue the best possible outcome effectively. We are ready to fight by your side until the end of your case.
Call or contact us online 24/7 for a free consultation with a Richmond, VA head-on collision lawyer if you sustained injuries in a head-on accident someone else caused.
