Top Head-On Collision Lawyers

If you are unable to reach a settlement with the at-fault driver's insurance company, or if the damages exceed the policy limits, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit to seek additional compensation. This process involves filing a lawsuit in court and presenting your case to a judge or jury.

To file a personal injury lawsuit, you will need to gather evidence to support your claim, including medical records, witness statements, and any other relevant documents. You will also need to prove that the other driver was at fault for the accident and that you suffered damages as a result.

It is important to note that personal injury lawsuits can be complex and time-consuming, and it is typically advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney to help you navigate the process. An attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and represent you in court if necessary.

In a head-on collision, fault is typically determined by determining which driver caused the accident. The driver who caused the accident is typically considered at fault and may be responsible for paying damages to the other driver.

There are several factors that can be used to determine fault in a head-on collision, including:

• Traffic laws: If one driver was breaking a traffic law, such as running a red light or stop sign, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they may be considered at fault for the accident.
• Vehicle positioning: If one driver was in the wrong lane or attempting to pass another vehicle when the accident occurred, they may be considered at fault.
• Vehicle speed: If one driver was speeding or driving too fast for the conditions, they may be considered at fault for the accident.
• Driver behavior: If one driver was engaged in reckless or negligent behavior, such as texting while driving or failing to signal when changing lanes, they may be considered at fault.

To determine fault, investigators may review the accident scene, examine the damage to the vehicles, and gather witness statements. They may also review traffic camera footage or other video evidence, as well as any relevant vehicle data, such as data from event data recorders (EDRs) or telematics systems.

It is important to note that fault can be shared in a head-on collision, meaning that both drivers may have contributed to the accident. In these cases, the percentage of fault may be assigned to each driver, and the damages may be apportioned accordingly.

Common causes:

• Distracted driving: Taking your eyes off the road, whether to text, talk on the phone, or engage in other distracting activities, can increase the risk of a head-on collision.
• Drunk driving: Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair your judgment and reaction times, making head-on collisions more likely.
• Drowsy driving: Falling asleep at the wheel or experiencing extreme fatigue can lead to a head-on collision, as you may lose control of your vehicle or be unable to react in time to avoid an oncoming vehicle.
• Reckless driving: Engaging in dangerous behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, or weaving in and out of lanes can increase the risk of a head-on collision.
• Inclement weather: Poor weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, can make it more difficult to see and react to oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of a head-on collision.
• Poor road conditions: Potholes, debris, or other hazards on the road can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle and collide with oncoming traffic.
• Mechanical failure: If a vehicle's brakes or steering system fails, it can be difficult or impossible to avoid a head-on collision.

Common injuries from head-on collisions include:

• Traumatic brain injury: A head-on collision can cause a concussion or other traumatic brain injury, which can lead to long-term cognitive or physical impairments.
• Spinal cord injury: A head-on collision can cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or other serious disabilities.
• Broken bones: The impact of a head-on collision can cause bones to break or shatter, requiring surgical repair and potentially leading to long-term mobility issues.
• Soft tissue injuries: Head-on collisions can cause injuries to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which can be painful and require extensive physical therapy to heal. Whiplash is also common.
• Internal injuries: The impact of a head-on collision can cause internal organ damage or bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
• Psychological injuries: The trauma of a head-on collision can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
• Facial injuries: A head-on collision can cause injuries to the face, such as cuts, bruises, or broken bones, which can result in scarring or disfigurement.

In a head-on collision, damages can be sustained by both vehicles as well as the people involved in the accident. Some common damages in a head-on collision include:

1. Vehicle damage: The impact of a head-on collision can cause significant damage to both vehicles involved, including crumpled or shattered front ends, broken windows, and damage to the frame or body.
2. Medical expenses: Head-on collisions can cause serious injuries that require medical treatment, including hospitalization, surgery, and physical therapy. These expenses can be significant and may include costs such as ambulance transport, medications, and rehabilitation.
3. Lost income: If you are unable to work as a result of a head-on collision, you may lose income as a result. This could include lost wages if you are unable to work due to your injuries, as well as lost future earnings if your injuries result in long-term disability.
4. Property damage: In addition to damage to the vehicles, a head-on collision may also result in damage to personal property, such as a suitcase or laptop that was in the vehicle at the time of the accident.
5. Pain and suffering: Head-on collisions can cause physical pain and emotional suffering, which may be compensated as part of a settlement or judgment.
6. Loss of consortium: If a head-on collision results in serious injuries or death, the spouse or other close family members of the injured party may be able to seek compensation for the loss of companionship, support, and other intangible benefits.
7. Funeral expenses: If a head-on collision results in death, the surviving family members may be able to seek compensation for funeral and burial expenses.

Do I need an attorney after a head-on collision?

• While it is not necessarily required to hire an attorney after a head-on collision, it is typically advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney to help you navigate the process and protect your rights. An attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and represent you in court if necessary.

What if the other driver was at fault but is denying responsibility?

• If the other driver was at fault but is denying responsibility, you may need to provide evidence to support your claim. This could include witness statements, photos of the accident scene, and documentation of your damages. If necessary, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation.

How long do I have to file a claim or lawsuit after a head-on collision?

• The time limit for filing a claim or lawsuit after a head-on collision is known as the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims varies by state, but it is typically between one and six years. It is important to act promptly in seeking compensation, as the longer you wait, the harder it may be to gather evidence.

What should I do immediately after a head-on collision?

• After a head-on collision, it is important to remain calm and take the following steps:
  • Check for injuries and call for medical assistance if needed.
  • Move your vehicle to a safe location, if possible.
  • Call the police to report the accident.
  • Exchange information with the other driver, including insurance information and contact information.
  • Take photos of the accident scene and any damages.
  • Obtain witness statements, if possible.
  • Report the accident to your insurance company.