Car crashes are no joke. More than 42,000 Americans died in car accidents in 2020, with nearly 30% of car accident fatalities occurring during head-on collisions.
Head-on collisions don’t happen nearly as often as other crashes. But just one head-on collision can ruin your life. You can reduce the pain by learning about car accidents and preparing in advance for one.
What exactly is a head-on collision? Why is it so dangerous, and what are its effects? What should you do after a head-on car crash?
Answer these questions and you can make a full recovery after a devastating car collision. Here is your quick guide.
Table of Contents
The Basics of a Head-on Collision
A head-on auto accident occurs when two or more vehicles collide together at their front ends. It does not matter how fast the vehicles are traveling or what caused the accident.
Many head-on crashes occur because a car crosses the median or centerline of a road. The driver may intend to take a turn through traffic or pass someone on the left.
A car may also travel the wrong way down a highway. Many European drivers get confused about American roads because they drive on the left at home. They think they are going in the direction of traffic only to run into a problem.
The Effects of a Head-on Car Crash
A head-on car accident is far more dangerous than a rear-end or side collision. The force of the impact destroys the front of a car, and debris mayfly and hit the driver and passengers. Many drivers hit their heads on the steering wheel or dashboard, causing a concussion.
Both cars are often moving when the collision occurs. This increases the force of the crash and can cause the cars to spin out to the side. The cars can crash into objects on the side of the road or fall down a cliff, which can lead to fatal injuries.
Head-on accidents can cause devastating injuries like brain damage and spinal cord damage. A broken limb may not heal correctly, impairing your ability to use your arm or leg.
Many head-on crashes destroy the engine and transmission of the vehicles. This can total your car, requiring you to buy a new one.
You and the other drivers involved may get into a civil lawsuit with each other. You also face criminal charges, especially for reckless driving or speeding. If someone was seriously injured or died, you may be charged with vehicular assault or manslaughter.
What to Do After a Car Accident
You should take several steps after you are involved in any car crash. The recovery process can take years, but you can make a full recovery with the help of legal professionals.
Keep Yourself Safe
You can remain in your car after a head-on accident occurs. It may be safer to stay inside than to go out and risk cutting yourself on debris.
Do not move your head and neck in extreme or significant ways. You risk making a spinal cord or brain injury worse, and you may increase your heart rate, which can lead to excessive bleeding. You can try to signal for help by yelling out for others or calling someone on the phone.
Make a Full Recovery
Even if you do not think you are injured, you should go to a doctor. They can check you for signs of subtle injuries like internal bleeding and muscle strains.
You should go home and spend a few days recuperating from the accident. Going back to work immediately after you break an arm can extend the recovery process and increase your pain. Resting can also help clear your mind so you avoid developing a condition like post-traumatic stress disorder.
Investigate the Accident
You must get more info about the accident before you take legal action. You should understand what exactly happened to determine who was at fault for the crash.
You can talk to a lawyer, who can investigate the crash on your behalf. You should give them a witness statement, photographs of your vehicle, and documents about your injuries.
Your lawyer or your insurance company may determine you were at fault for the accident. As long as you don’t bear 100% of the fault, you can receive some compensation. You can also launch a defense against criminal charges or reach a plea deal so you don’t spend time in prison.
Push for Compensation
You should talk to your car insurance company right away to get compensation for your damaged vehicle. If the cost of repairs would exceed the cost of a new car, you should get a new car instead.
At the same time, you should talk to your medical insurer. You may need to submit personal information, but your details will stay confidential.
If your insurer will not cover your bills, you should appeal with the help of an insurance attorney. You should also update your insurer’s information, sending them your bills for physical and psychological therapy.
The Essentials of a Head-on Collision
A head-on collision can be a source of great pain. You may get into one after you change lanes or drift over a median. Colliding with a vehicle face-first sends debris your way and destroys your engine.
You may be left with substantial injuries that take you away from work for months. You need to focus on your health and make a recovery. Then you must take the fight to your insurer, getting as much money as you can.
You can make a great legal case with the facts. Read more car crash lawsuit guides by following our coverage.
