Head-On Collisions: Causes, Injuries, and Pursuing Compensation

Head-on crashes are among the deadliest types of traffic accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. In 2021, there were 4,295 head-on collisions in the U.S., accounting for 10.9% of all fatal collisions.

Understanding the causes of these devastating accidents and knowing how to pursue compensation are essential steps in supporting your recovery after a head-on crash. An experienced Wisconsin car accident attorney at Brian Hodgkiss Injury Lawyers can help you secure a fair settlement for your injuries and losses.

Causes of Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are often the result of negligent driving, where distractions or poor decision-making can have devastating consequences. Some of the most common causes of head-on crashes include:

• Distracted Driving: Whether texting, adjusting the GPS, or eating, distractions can easily cause a driver to drift into oncoming traffic, leading to a head-on crash. In 2021, 4,372 people in Wisconsin were injured in collisions due to distracted driving.
• Impairment: Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment and slow their reaction times, making it all too easy to swerve across the center line and cause a head-on collision. In 2021, Wisconsin saw 7,823 crashes related to impaired driving.
• Reckless Behavior: Speeding, aggressive driving, and ignoring traffic signals are dangerous behaviors that can cause a driver to lose control and collide head-on with another vehicle. In 2021, there were 17,597 speeding-related crashes in Wisconsin.

Injuries Suffered in Head-On Crashes

Head-on collisions can cause severe injuries, as the sheer force of the two vehicles colliding is immense. The injuries often suffered in these accidents include:

• Whiplash and Spinal Injuries: The abrupt impact of a head-on collision can violently jerk the head and neck, causing whiplash. If severe, this cervical sprain can lead to chronic pain and restricted mobility for years.
• Spinal Injuries: The force of a head-on collision can compress and damage the spine, leading to fractures, herniated discs, or even paralysis. Spinal injuries can result in long-term disability, affecting your quality of life and ability to work.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): During the impact of a head-on collision, the brain can be jolted or collide with the skull, leading to concussions or more severe brain injuries. TBIs, such as contusions or diffuse axonal injuries, can have long-lasting effects on cognition, physical abilities, and emotional well-being.
• Broken Bones: The force of a head-on collision can result in broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribcage. Compound fractures often require a lengthy, complicated recovery and can lead to lifelong mobility challenges.
• Fatalities: Tragically, the severe impact of head-on collisions can result in fatal injuries. Families are often left to navigate the grief of losing a loved one and may pursue compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent driver.

How to Receive Fair Compensation After a Head-On Accident

Seeking compensation after a head-on collision requires taking several necessary steps. To protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve, follow these guidelines:

• Seek Medical Attention: Seek medical attention immediately after the accident. A healthcare professional can treat your injuries and provide crucial medical records for your case.
• Document the Accident Scene: Photograph the accident scene, capturing all vehicles involved, road conditions, and nearby traffic signs or signals. Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses and ask if they’re willing to provide a statement. This evidence will assist your attorney in reconstructing the accident and establishing liability.
• Report to Police: Report the accident to the police immediately; this creates an official record, supports the investigation, and is necessary if the crash caused injury, death, or damages exceeding $1,000. Obtain a copy of the report, which will serve as crucial evidence for insurance claims and legal actions.
• Keep a Journal: Keep a daily journal documenting your recovery process, including your physical and emotional health and how the injury affects your daily life. This record can be invaluable in demonstrating the full extent of your suffering and ongoing challenges.
• Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: Engage a personal injury attorney to assist with your case. An experienced lawyer can provide legal guidance, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court to pursue the full compensation you deserve for your damages.

Be mindful of the deadlines for filing injury claims, as delaying could jeopardize your right to compensation. In Wisconsin, you generally have three years to file a claim in court, but starting the process sooner can help preserve evidence and expedite your compensation.

Get the Financial Support You Need After a Head-On Collision

Head-on collisions can be life-altering, but you have the right to pursue a settlement that supports you and your family as you rebuild your life. At Brian Hodgkiss Injury Lawyers, we’ll handle all the negotiations, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Contact us for a free case review, and let us fight to secure the compensation you deserve.