What should you find out about a head-on collision accident?

Individuals who have suffered serious injury in head-on collisions should seek legal help. Physical recovery may depend on understanding your rights in the accident and being able to afford the high costs of medical treatment. When another driver’s negligence caused the accident, an attorney can represent you in the claim.

What are head-on collisions?

Head-on collisions occur when vehicles going in opposition directions crash into each other. The front end of one car collides into the front of another. These types of accidents are frequently serious and result in fatalities for the drivers and passengers. In 2017, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reported the following statistics about head-on collision accidents:

  • Vehicle occupants experienced a 58% fatality rate
  • The occurrence of head-on collisions were more prevalent in rural areas
  • Head-on collisions comprised 13% of all rural fatal crashes

What are common causes of head-on collision accidents?

Various situations can result in a head-on collision. The following are some common causes:

  • One driver is driving on the wrong side of the roadway
  • Drunken driving
  • Distracted driving, such as texting while driving
  • Reckless passing
  • Drowsy driving
  • Veering to avoid an animal
  • Hitting an icy patch in the road

How do courts determine fault in a head-on accident collision?

Because an impact can send cars flying in different directions, proving fault can be challenging. The attorney for the plaintiff who is suing for damages must prove fault. It may be necessary to have an accident reconstruction engineer evaluate the accident and provide evidence. The attorney must show that the at-fault driver failed in a duty of care. Driving while intoxicated or on drugs or distracted driving would be indications of the at-fault driver’s negligence. Driving the wrong way on a one-way street or speeding are also forms of negligence. Finally, the lawyer must establish that the other driver’s negligence caused the accident to occur.

(Reference: Enjuris® website)

Do you need legal help with a serious vehicle accident injury?

Michael R. De La Paz has extensive experience with accident cases. Our firm also handles cases nationwide in other states than Texas, such as Washington and Idaho. However, we also represent clients throughout Texas, including Houston, McAllen, and Austin. Arrange a free consultation to evaluate your case.