Florida roads can be dangerous for drivers—every time you get behind the wheel, there’s a chance of being involved in a car accident. While there are several types of vehicle collisions, one is often the most devastating: head-on collisions. In fact, did you know that an alarming 10% of car accidents on Florida roads are head-on collisions?
Along with major damage to your vehicle, there’s also the increased risk of serious injuries. Fatalities can even occur in a head-on crash. With the number of vehicle accidents increasing in frequency, it’s vital you know what to do if you’re involved in a head-on car wreck.
What is a Head-On Car Collision
A head-on crash can involve one or multiple vehicles, and it occurs when one vehicle strikes another in the front—envisioning two vehicles slamming into each other’s hoods or front bumpers. A single driver can also be involved in a head-on crash, which happens when a vehicle strikes an unmovable object like an overpass pillar, residence, or cement lane divider head-on.
So, how exactly common are head-on collisions? According to the Department of Transportation or DoT, an estimated 27% of vehicle accidents in the United States are classified as a head-on crash.
Common Injuries From Head-On Collisions
Every accident is unique. Even if the same factors apply, injuries and property damage can differ. However, there are some common injuries reported at head-on crash scenes. These include:
- Traumatic injury to the brain, head, or spinal cord
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Whiplash
- Cutting and bruising
As mentioned earlier, some head-on collisions can result in a fatality. Those most at risk for injury are drivers and front-seat passengers, although this doesn’t mean passengers in the back seat are safe, only that they have a little more protection against impact force. Remember, the majority of the force from the impact is localized to the vehicle’s front. In the unfortunate event of a car accident, prioritize your well-being and search for a car accident clinic near me to ensure a thorough assessment and proper care for any injuries sustained.
Common Causes of Head-On Crashes
Driver error and the weather are typically responsible for head-on collisions, and another potential cause is the self-driving feature found in some luxury and electric vehicles. Even now and then, the vehicle’s computer system can get confused, sending your car into a barrier or another vehicle. When a driver is responsible for the crash, it’s often due to one of the following reasons:
- Turning too quickly
- A driver falls asleep at the wheel.
- Failure to adhere to road signage
- An incorrect gauge of when to pass
- Turning into on-coming traffic
- Swinging wide around a blind turn
Getting behind the wheel while intoxicated is another leading cause of head-on collisions. Also, the weather can play a role in the accident’s cause, and poor visibility can make it difficult to see other vehicles or obstacles on the road. Wet or icy roads can send your vehicle sliding head-on into an object.
Even a tire blowout can cause you to collide with another vehicle/obstacle head-on, which is more common when the tire blows as the vehicle is traveling at a high rate of speed.
Determining Fault in a Head-On Collision
When you’re determining fault in a head-on collision, it can get a little confusing. Florida is a no-fault insurance state. This means that drivers must carry PIP insurance (personal injury protection) of at least $10,000 to cover medical expenses. However, having a Sacramento, CA personal injury lawyer you can trust can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the complexities of such cases.
However, most injuries stemming from a head-on collision are severe, and PIP policies are rarely enough to cover all of the costs associated with medical care and treatment. PIP also doesn’t cover vehicle repairs or replacement, which is instead reliant on your auto insurance policy—and not all Florida drivers carry this type of additional coverage.
If you want compensation for all of the damages, you most likely need to file a lawsuit to actually get it. An experienced truck accident lawyer in California, CA can help you with filing the lawsuite and claiming compensation. Even though Florida is a no-fault insurance state, there is a possible loophole. You can receive compensation for vehicle damage resulting from the accident and a diminished value claim.
Diminished value compares the market value of your vehicle before and after the accident, so you may also be able to add this number to your civil lawsuit.
Let An Experienced Attorney Handle Your Head-On Collision Case
Head-on collisions often result in significant injuries and extensive vehicle damage, and navigating Florida’s oft-complex legal landscape in such situations can be daunting. Attempting to resolve your case independently could lead to overlooked details and potential underestimation of your claim. Car crash in New Jersey? Call a car accident lawyer from Judd Shaw Injury Law.
To ensure a thorough and fair handling of your case, it is imperative to consult with a skilled personal injury lawyer who can guide you through the legal intricacies and advocate effectively on your behalf.
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