What Causes Head-On Collisions?

April 5, 2023

Head-on collisions are some of the most severe types of car accidents. A head-on collision involves two cars traveling toward each other and colliding, leading to severe injuries, property damage, and sometimes death. Determining fault in a head-on collision can be difficult, but it is critical for an accident survivor who is seeking compensation for their injuries.

Statistics show that only two percent of car accidents are head-on collisions, yet 10 percent of crash fatalities are caused by them. They are particularly violent and could lead to serious ramifications and life-changing injuries. Typically, head-on collisions are caused by either one or both drivers’ negligence.

The most common causes of head-on collisions include:

• Distracted driving: Drivers who do not pay attention, either by being on their phone or talking to a passenger, can drift into an opposing lane, causing a head-on collision with a stationary object or another vehicle.
• Wrong way: A driver may be confused or unaware when entering the wrong direction of a one-way street, which will likely lead to a head-on crash.
• Drunk driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol drastically inhibits your ability to drive a car safely and reduces your reaction time and ability to judge distances.
• Drowsy driving: Drowsy driving symptoms are not much different from drunk driving symptoms and can be just as dangerous.
• Improper passing: Many head-on collisions occur because a driver improperly passes another car, crossing over a double yellow line illegally and into the opposing lane.

Head-on collisions can also be caused by problems that do not involve another driver, such as poorly designed roads or inadequate signage.

Determining fault can be difficult in car accidents that cause such severe injuries like those that happen in head-on collisions. Many states allow accident survivors to sue the at-fault driver for damages, especially when injuries are serious or catastrophic. An experienced accident lawyer can help determine liability by going through the details of the accident and records with you. Seeking legal help immediately following a head-on collision is imperative.

What Injuries Occur in Head-On Collisions?

Head-on crashes are some of the most serious types of accidents, leading to catastrophic injuries, such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries.
• Broken or fractured bones.
• Spinal cord injuries.
• Internal organ damage.
• Chest injuries.
• Back injuries.
• Amputations.
• Burns.

The force generated in a head-on collision can be catastrophic. You will likely need medical help immediately when in such an accident. Calling 911 right away will bring first responders to the scene where they can render aid, and the police will try to determine what caused the accident.

Pennsylvania Accident Laws

Pennsylvania follows some important rules to be aware of concerning car accidents. The state follows a choice no-fault insurance system which allows a driver to go to their own insurance company for compensation in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. However, injuries following a head-on collision are normally very serious, and this type of compensation will likely not cover the costs of these injuries. Full tort coverage is more expensive but it gives you the greatest legal flexibility.

Pennsylvania also follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that a plaintiff is allowed to seek compensation from the defendant, as long as that plaintiff does not share over 50 percent of responsibility for the accident.

West Chester Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello Helps Injured Survivors of Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are some of the most violent car accidents, leading to serious injuries or death. If you have been injured in an accident, a West Chester car accident lawyer at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello can help. Call us at 610-892-4940 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Media, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Lancaster, Montgomery County, Norristown, Philadelphia, Reading, and West Chester, Pennsylvania.