Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions, or frontal crashes, occur when the front end of one vehicle hits the front end of another vehicle. This kind of accident usually occurs when one vehicle enters a lane on the opposite side of the road or enters a roadway from the wrong direction. These accidents are especially devastating because the speed of both cars multiplies the violence of the collision.
COMMON INJURIES RESULTING FROM HEAD-ON COLLISIONS:
- Whiplash: Whiplash is common in head-on collisions because of the forces involved. The head continues to move forward after the impact. When the head is “whipped” back it strains the ligaments and muscles. Symptoms can include pain, headaches, dizziness, numbness, and stiffness.
- Neck Injuries: A 2000 study shows that one-third of injuries in collisions are neck injuries making them the most common.
- Abdominal Injuries: Studies show the most vulnerable organs are the liver and spleen, as well as the kidneys and diaphragm.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of a collision may travel up the spine which can cause injuries like herniated disks, cracked vertebra, nerve damage, or paralysis.
- Head Trauma: Even though airbags have reduced head injuries, brain injury and skull fracture can still occur. If the head hits the steering wheel, trauma can include concussion.
- Chest Injury: The force of the seat-belt, slamming into the steering wheel, and the airbag can cause trauma to the rib-cage and chest, breaking ribs or damaging the lungs.
- Foot and Leg Injury: Lower extremity injuries are common in frontal crashes. Legs and feet absorb most of the impact when they collide with the instrument panel, petals, or floorboard. Torn ligaments, broken bones, foot and ankle injuries, and crushed legs can all occur.
Sources: American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
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Head-on collisions can be devastating.HEAD-ON COLLISION STATISTICS:
There were approximately 5,800,000 car accidents in the U.S. in 2008. Although they account for only 2% of all accidents, they cause 10% of all car accident fatalities.
Head-on collisions are most commonly caused by motorists falling asleep, being distracted, or traveling too fast in a curve. Other contributing factors can be alcohol use or speeding. Studies show that more accidents occur in nice weather when drivers relax. Whereas, in bad weather, the majority of drivers tend to be more cautious.
Head-on accidents most commonly occur at intersections and on freeways. Accidents at intersections often occur when drivers disobey traffic signals. Running red lights may cause more serious injury due to high speeds. Freeway head-on collisions are particularly dangerous as a result of high speeds as well.
YOU CAN AFFORD AN ATTORNEY!
You may have a liability claim if you have been the victim of a head-on collision. Injuries requiring expensive, ongoing care or other damages can be recovered. Our personal injury attorneys can help you to receive compensation and hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence and harm.
The initial personal injury consultation is free. We will work on a contingent fee basis if we accept your case. We get paid for our services only if there is a monetary award or recovery of funds.
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