The top six causes of head-on collisions include:
- Distracted driving, which may cause a driver to veer into oncoming traffic
- Passing another vehicle when it is not safe
- Driving while fatigued
- Failing to exercise caution in dangerous road or weather conditions
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Disregarding traffic signals
A motorist is generally at fault in each of these cases.
More Information About the Causes of Head-On Collisions
The top six causes of head-on collisions warrant further examination. Motorists may avoid causing a head-on collision by:
Refraining From Distracting Behavior While They Are Driving
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) notes that texting while driving—a form of distracted driving—is against the law. Other types of distracted driving pose a high risk of causing an accident and may make a driver liable for your accident.
Distracting behaviors include:
- Eating
- Drinking
- Speaking on the phone
- Watching or recording video
- Looking at or taking photographs
- Speaking with individuals inside of a vehicle
- Communicating with individuals outside of a vehicle
- Failing to focus complete attention on the act of driving safely
If a distracted driver caused your accident, then they may be liable for all of your losses.
Passing Only When It Is Safe to Do So
A motorist should not pass another vehicle if:
- Road signals indicate that passing is illegal
- There is poor visibility on the road
- Oncoming traffic makes passing dangerous
- They are approaching a curve in the road or a hill that makes passing dangerous
A motorist who passes dangerously is generally liable for the resulting accident.
Driving Only When You Are Alert
Drivers who experience fatigue should pull over as soon as it is safe. There is no excuse for driving in a tired state. Motorists who drive long distances or for long periods of time—truckers, rideshare drivers, cab drivers, those traveling between states, etc.—may be especially susceptible to fatigued driving.
Adjusting Your Driving to Road and Weather Conditions
Drivers must exercise abundant caution in dangerous road and weather conditions. When rain, snow, construction, heavy traffic, or other dangerous conditions are present, a motorist should:
- Slow their speed
- Increase the distance between the vehicle in front of them
- Use headlights, hazard lights, and other safety features as appropriate
- Remain completely focused on driving safely
Drivers who fail to adapt to changing road conditions may be liable for their head-on collision.
Refrain From Driving When Impaired
Motorists who drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol may be more likely to lose control of their vehicle, merging into oncoming traffic.
Obeying All Traffic Indicators
Traffic indicators like lane dividers and no passing zone signs tell motorists when they can and cannot pass. Disobeying these and certain other traffic indicators may directly lead to a head-on collision. A motorist’s non-compliance with traffic signals may make them liable for your losses.
For a free legal consultation, call 877-239-4878
What Injuries Can Result From a Head-On Collision?
Head-on collisions account for nearly 30% of fatal accidents, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). If a head-on collision is not fatal, then it may cause one or more serious injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Head injury
- Broken bones
- Dislocations
- Internal injuries
- Severe bruising, cuts, and burns
The consequences of such injuries may impact you financially and in other ways.
What Are Recoverable Losses From a Head-On Collision?
You may experience different losses based on whether you have suffered injuries or lost a loved one. Our team will review your losses and identify all damages that entitle you to compensation.
Some losses from a head-on collision may include:
- Lost income
- Decreased earning power
- Lost productivity
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Pain and suffering, including lost quality of life
- Treatment for trauma, such as medication and counseling
- Damage to personal property
If your loved one passed away from a head-on collision, you may have grounds to collect wrongful death damages, such as funeral costs, medical bills, and loss of consortium.
Who Will Pay for Your Losses?
Those who are liable for a head-on collision may cover a victim’s losses. Liable parties may include:
- The driver who caused your head-on collision
- An establishment or private individual that overserved an intoxicated driver
- An employer whose employee caused your head-on collision while working
A personal injury lawyer from our firm will identify all liable parties in your case.
Contact our personal injury lawyers today
Call Loncar Lyon Jenkins Today About Your Head-On Collision
Call in the Strong Arm to help after your head-on collision. Our attorneys will help you with case-related appointments and fight for maximum financial recovery. Get in touch with Loncar Lyon Jenkins today at (877) 239-4878 for your FREE case review.
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