Although head on collisions are not the most frequent type of auto accident, they often result in severe injuries. This is because the combined speeds of the two cars make this type of accident very deadly. The severity of injuries sustained depend on a number of factors. Factors such as the relative size of the two vehicles, their make and construction, the presence of airbags, and whether seat belts are used by the occupants of the vehicles. All things being equal, the occupants of the larger vehicle tend to fare better in this type of accident.
Conditions that cause head on collisions include:
- Alcohol Use
Inebriated drivers have slower reflexes, impaired judgment, and are more easily confused by complex road situations. Confusion can cause the drunk driver to enter an exit ramp. Or even drive the wrong way on a one way street. - Driver Fatigue
Drowsy and tired drivers exhibit similar symptoms as intoxicated drivers. They sometimes fall asleep at the wheel and veer into the wrong lane. - Driver Distraction
Cell phone usage, texting, eating, reading, grooming, and tending children or pets in the back seat are among the many causes of distraction. - Poor Visibility
Thick fog on roads with poorly marked lanes can cause motorists to drift into the wrong lane. - Improper Passing
Passing on a solid yellow line, over blind hills, around blind turns, or not allowing enough distance to safely pass are common causes of head on crashes. - Improper Turns
Cutting the corner on a turn or driving too fast for the turn exposes a car to oncoming traffic. - Road Obstructions
Road obstructions such as a stalled out car, animals, or objects that have fallen out of trucks cause motorists to take evasive action by going into the left lane.
Despite the presence of airbags and large crumple zones designed to absorb energy in head on collisions, the high speed nature of these accidents can still cause severe injury. These injuries include brain trauma, back and spinal cord injury, paralysis, broken bones, facial lacerations, and whiplash of the neck and shoulder.
Suffering from Injuries? Contact an Injury Lawyer Today!
If another driver caused a head on accident in which you were injured, you are entitled to compensation for the expense of recovery, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced Dana Point injury lawyer can discuss your options and provide help. Don’t go it alone. Contact us at Silverthorne Attorneys for a free consultation.
