Car accidents happen on a daily basis. They occur in a number of ways. One of the most dangerous types of car crashes is head-on accidents.
A head-on accident occurs when the fronts of two vehicles that are traveling in opposite directions collide with each other. These crashes are scary and are often fatal, especially when they occur at high speeds. The fatality rate is close to 60%. Head-on crashes are more common in rural areas.
At a minimum, head-on crashes cause serious injuries. Have you been a victim? If so, contact the Owings Mills head-on collision lawyers at Furman | Honick Law and schedule a consultation to get your case assessed.
Causes of Head-On Crashes
What causes two vehicles to collide head-on? Here are some common causes:
- Wrong-way driving. Head-on collisions often occur when a motorist gets confused and drives the wrong way on a one-way street or highway.
- Improper passing. Many accidents are also caused by drivers who are impatient. They misjudge the time they have to safely pass on a two-lane road, causing them to collide with an approaching vehicle.
- Speeding around curves. Speeding around curves can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle and cross the center lane.
- Distracted driving. Texting is one of the most common as well as one of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving. Eating, drinking, looking at a GPS, talking to passengers, reading, or adjusting the radio can lead to a vehicle crossing the center lane.
- Intoxication. Alcohol or drug use can reduce driving skills in many ways, causing a lack of judgment and coordination. This can lead to a head-on crash.
- Fatigue. A driver who falls asleep or is fighting to stay awake can drift into oncoming traffic without even realizing it.
Common Damages
Head-on crashes often result in several main types of damages:
- Property damage. This refers to costs related to repair or replacement of your vehicle as well as any secondary damage to other objects or vehicles.
- Physical injuries. This refers to all the costs incurred for your medical treatment, such as hospitalization, ambulance, doctor visits, medications, therapy, and medical equipment. It also includes lost wages, pain and suffering, and related expenses.
- Wrongful death. If a person was killed in a head-on crash, the surviving family members can recover damages for wrongful death. They could receive compensation for emergency medical care, burial costs, funeral expenses, loss of future income, loss of support, and loss of consortium for family members.
Contact Furman | Honick Law Today
Head-on accidents are serious crashes that cause catastrophic injuries and even death. If you or a loved one has been affected, make sure you get the right legal help.
Count on the team at Furman | Honick Law to gather evidence, retain experts, and determine what you deserve in damages. Our Owings Mills car accident lawyers will work hard for you. Schedule a free consultation today by calling (410) 844-6000 or filling out the online form.