Head On Collision Accidents
Head-on collisions are typically considered the most devastating when it comes to causing injuries. The front end of one vehicle collides with the front end of the other, and the full force of the impact hits them both. Because there is no “give” between the vehicles, the impact is substantial. Head-on collisions can result in serious injuries and even wrongful death for the victims, shattering their lives and their families lives. Contact our team of head-on collision attorneys in Pittsburgh, PA for a free legal consultation and top legal representation if you or a family member have suffered serious injuries in a head-on collision caused by the negligence of someone else.
In most cases, head-on collisions could have been avoided. Because of someone’s negligence, people are hurt, oftentimes irreparably. Recovery can take months to years, while expenses pile up. Medical care, therapy, lost wages, and property damage are often just the beginning when it comes to economic losses.
The Pittsburgh, PA auto accident attorneys Chaffin Luhana understand the unique nature of head-on collisions, and the havoc they can cause. They have the experience needed to investigate all facets of the case, and stand ready to help you and your loved ones recover the damages you need to put your life back together.
Types and Causes of Head-On Collisions
A head-on collision can occur between two passenger cars, two trucks or commercial vehicles, or between a car and a motorcycle, or another combination of these. Common causes of these collisions include:
- Driver under the influence of alcohol and or drugs
- Distracted driver (texting, talking on the phone, checking social media, etc.)
- Driver is going too fast
- Driver goes the wrong way on a one-way street or highway
- Driver passes incorrectly
- Driver crosses the center line and crashes into an oncoming vehicle
- Driver fails to follow road signs
- Driver fails to stay in the right lane or drives too fast around a curve
- Driver falls asleep at the wheel as a result of driver fatigue
- Car fails, losing control of steering
The majority of head-on collisions occur on two-lane, undivided rural roads, which suggests that most may occur because of incorrect passing procedures or equipment failures. Confusing construction zones where traffic is redirected, or poor road conditions, can also play a part.
Types of Injuries from a Head-On Collision
Because of its severity, a head-on collision can cause very serious and traumatic injuries. These can include:
- Death
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord injuries that may result in paralysis
- Broken bones, sometimes in the face
- Serious burn injuries
Who’s Liable in a Head-On Collision Lawsuit?
Usually it is one or more drivers who are at fault in a head-on collision. Other parties may also share in the liability, however, including:
- Driver: The driver (or drivers) may be found to be negligent because he or she was driving too fast, driving under the influence, passing incorrectly, disobeying road signs, driving distracted, or otherwise ignoring safe operation procedures.
- Manufacturer of the vehicle: New safety regulations require car and truck manufacturers to supply protective airbags in their vehicles. If these airbags malfunction—fail to deploy or deploy incorrectly—the manufacturer may be held liable in a head-on collision lawsuit. Other safety equipment, such as seat belts, are also expected to perform properly in an accident. If they, or other equipment such as the brakes or power steering malfunction, the manufacturer may also be held liable.
- Construction company: If the accident occurred in a construction zone, and that zone was improperly marked, or was unreasonably dangerous, the construction company may be held liable.
- Other manufacturers: Head-on collisions sometimes occur because of tire blowouts. These can occur because of a defect in the tire, whereby the manufacturer of the tire may be found to be at least partially liable.
- Other parties: In some cases, poor road conditions, broken traffic lights, damaged road signs, poorly maintained lane dividers, and more can play a part in causing a head-on collision.
Your Head-On Collision Lawyer Can Help
If you or a loved one suffered a serious injury or even death because of a head-on collision, contact the personal injury lawyers at Chaffin Luhana in Pittsburgh, PA for legal help. We have the experience necessary to help gather all the evidence, including any documentation (police reports and others), photographs, witness statements, medical records, and more. Through thorough investigation, we uncover every possibility to help you recover the damages you deserve. To find out how we can help you, contact us today.
We represent individuals in the Ohio Valley in West Virginia, Western Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio.
Related Pages and Posts:
Car Accident Frequently Asked Questions
Common Causes/Types of Car Accidents
Common Car Crash Injuries
What to do After a Car Accident