Head On Collision Accidents

A head-on collision is a type of car accident in which the front ends of two vehicles collide with each other, typically as a result of one vehicle crossing over into the opposing lane of traffic. Head on collisions not only occur in San Diego but they can occur anywhere where driving takes place. These types of accidents are often very severe and can result in serious injuries or fatalities. Head-on collisions can be caused by a variety of factors. As you’re going through the injury claims process, it’s imperative to have a clear understanding of the cause of these collisions as it will have an impact on the overall value of it. Our car accident lawyers are here to help. 

Statistics About Head On Collisions in San Diego

Head-on collisions are considered one of the most dangerous types of car accidents and can result in serious injuries or fatalities.  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), head-on collisions account for only 2% of all car accidents, but they account for nearly 10% of all car accident fatalities.

Head-on collisions are more likely to occur on rural roads, with about half of all head-on collisions happening on roads with speed limits of 55 mph or higher.

A study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that the risk of death in a head-on collision is more than four times higher than in a side-impact collision. The same study also found that older adults are at a higher risk of death in a head-on collision than younger drivers.

Driver error is one of the most common causes of head-on collisions, with factors such as distracted driving, drunk driving, and reckless driving contributing to many accidents.

What are the Causes of a Head On Collision?

Determining the root cause of your head on collision is important for many reasons. Not only will the cause provide you with a sense of peace, but it will also help to aid your personal injury claim. There are many potential causes of a head-on collision, some of which may include:

• Driver error, such as distracted driving, drunk driving, or reckless driving
• Fatigued or drowsy driving
• Poor road conditions, including a lack of clear lane markings or insufficient signage
• Mechanical failure, such as a malfunctioning in steering or braking system
• Weather conditions, such as heavy rain or fog 
• Animals or other obstacles in the road
• Illegal or improper passing, such as passing on a solid line or in a no-passing zone
• Medical emergency or other unforeseen event that causes the driver to lose control of the vehicle
• Head on collisions are considered as one of the most dangerous type of accident due to the high speed and the direct impact of the collision

How Do You Prove Liability in a Head on Collision in San Diego?

Proving liability, or fault, in a head-on collision can be challenging, as it often requires a thorough investigation of the accident and a detailed analysis of the evidence. This is one of the reasons why you always want to partner with an experienced San Diego car accident attorney that will help to prove your case. Although our team will go into these important details with you, some of the key factors that may be considered in determining liability include:

• Eyewitness account of what happened: Statements from witnesses who saw the accident happen can provide valuable information about how the head-on collision occurred.
• Physical evidence: This can include skid marks, damage to the vehicles, and other physical indications of how the accident happened. Don’t forget to try to take pictures immediately following the accident if at all possible. 
• Police reports: These reports often include information about the positions of the vehicles and the results of any field sobriety or alcohol tests that were conducted.
• Expert testimony: In some cases, experts in accident reconstruction or other relevant fields may be called upon to provide testimony about how the accident occurred.

In general, liability is determined by determining who caused the accident and if the person who caused the accident was negligent. To prove negligence, it must be shown that the person or the party at fault had a legal duty to act a certain way, they failed to live up to that duty and that failure caused the accident resulting in injury or damage.

In a head on collision case, the driver who crossed over into the opposing lane of traffic is often considered to be at fault for the accident. However, there are other factors that should be taken into consideration as well which is why a personal injury attorney should always be retained.

What Types of Damages That You Can Sue for in a Head On Collision Claim?

Similar to a rear-end accident, in a head-on collision claim, an individual may be able to sue for several types of damages. Just a few types of damages that a person can win as a result of their injuries include: 

• Medical expenses: This includes all past, present, and future medical expenses resulting from the accident, such as hospital bills, doctor’s appointments, and rehabilitation costs.
• Lost wages: This includes any income that was lost as a result of the accident, including any future loss of earning capacity.
• Property damage: This includes damages to the individual’s vehicle and any other personal property that was damaged in the accident.
• Pain and suffering: This includes physical pain, emotional distress, and other non-economic damages that the individual may have experienced as a result of the accident.
• Loss of consortium: This is a claim that can be made by the victim’s spouse or family members for the loss of companionship, comfort, or affection due to the victim’s injuries or death.
• Punitive damages: In some cases, if the defendant’s conduct is deemed to be particularly egregious, a court may award punitive damages as a way to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future.

It’s important to note that each state has different laws regarding the types of damages that can be recovered in a personal injury lawsuit. Our head on collision lawyers in San Diego will provide you with the personalized guidance you need to make the most out of your lawsuit so that you can receive the highest possible compensation for your pain and suffering. 

Should I Speak with Attorney After a Head On Collision?

It is important to speak with a head-on collision attorney in San Diego after this type of accident, as they can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected. Here are some things to consider when speaking with an attorney:

• Provide all necessary information: Your attorney will need to know all the details of the accident, including what happened, who was involved, and what injuries you sustained. Provide any documentation that you have, including police reports, medical records, and pictures of the accident scene.
• Understand the statute of limitations: Each state has a specific time frame within which you must file a lawsuit, known as a statute of limitations. When you initially meet with our head on collision attorneys, we will provide you with an understanding of the statute of limitations. 
• Consider the type of damages: An attorney can help you determine what types of damages you may be able to recover, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
• Understand the process: An attorney can explain the process of a personal injury lawsuit, including how to prove negligence, how to negotiate a settlement, and what to expect in court if the case goes to trial.
• Be upfront and honest with your attorney: Your attorney will work best if you are open and honest with them about your case. Provide all the necessary information, even if it’s something you think may be damaging to your case, as they can help you to understand the potential impact of that information.

Reach Out To Our Head On Collision Attorneys in San Diego Today 

If you have been injured physically or psychologically as a result of a head on collision in San Diego, we encourage you to get in touch with our attorneys. We are here to provide you with the insight and guidance that you need and deserve for your personal injury claim. We offer a free consultation, so why not reach out to us today at 619-INJURED and learn more.