Were you injured in a head-on collision in Alabama? As some of the most devastating types of crashes that occur on the roads and highways in our state, these types of collisions can result in severe or even fatal injuries.
At Stokes Stemle, LLC, our experienced head-on collision attorneys are committed to helping those involved in head-on collisions seek the fair compensation they need to rebuild their lives after the crash. We have extensive experience handling these types of cases and are ready to put our skills and resources to work for you. Contact us by phone or online for a free consultation today.
What Is a Head-On Collision?
A head-on collision, also known as a “frontal” or “front-impact” collision, occurs when the front end of one vehicle collides with the front end of another vehicle heading in the opposite direction.
Head-on collisions are rare. However, data suggests they are among the most dangerous and destructive car accidents that occur:
- Per the National Safety Council (NSC), head-on collisions accounted for just over two percent of accidents in the United States in one recent year. However, they made up nearly four percent of all injury crashes and over 11 percent of all fatal crashes that same year.
- According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 58 percent of all passenger vehicle occupant deaths that year were in head-on collisions.
- Research from the Insurance Information Institute (III) reveals that the effectiveness of vehicle safety features like seatbelts and airbags decreases as the relative speed of a head-on collision increases.
What Is the Leading Cause of Head-On Collisions?
In most cases, head-on collisions are preventable accidents caused by the negligent behavior of a driver or other road user. Some of the leading causes of head-on collisions include:
- Distracted driving
- Texting while driving
- Drunk driving
- Drugged driving
- Driver fatigue
- Reckless driving
- Aggressive driving
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Improper turning or merging
- Improper passing maneuvers
- Driver error or inexperience
- Defective vehicle components
- Poorly maintained car parts
- Poor road conditions
Common Injuries Sustained in Head-On Accidents
Head-on car crashes are some of the most devastating accidents because they often result in serious injuries and fatalities. When a vehicle hits a stationary object or another car traveling in the opposite direction, occupants can suffer life-changing injuries from blunt-force impacts. They may be harmed by crushing injuries or being ejected from the vehicle.
Here are some of the most common types of injuries that victims suffer in head-on collisions:
- Back and neck injuries
- Knee and joint injuries
- Bone fractures and dislocations
- Burns, lacerations, and puncture wounds
- Abdominal and internal injuries
- Soft tissue strains, sprains, and tears
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Amputation and loss of limb
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries (SCI)
- Partial or total paralysis
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Fatal injuries and wrongful death
Who Is At Fault in an Alabama Head-On Collision?
In most cases, a motorist who enters a lane of traffic facing the wrong direction will be at fault for a head-on collision. For example, if a driver crosses into an opposing traffic lane to pass slower motorists, they would be at fault for a subsequent head-on crash with an oncoming vehicle. A driver could also be at fault for a head-on collision if they fail to yield the right-of-way at an intersection when they are supposed to do so.
But depending on the circumstances, any of the following parties could be partially or fully liable for a head-on collision:
- Another road user, such as a pedestrian or cyclist who breaks traffic laws and causes a motorist to swerve into oncoming traffic
- The at-fault driver’s employer, if the at-fault driver is traveling for work-related purposes or driving a company car when the accident occurs
- The government agency responsible for maintaining and repairing local roads if unsafe road conditions cause the accident
- The manufacturer of a defective car component that contributes to the wreck
Compensation for Head-On Accident Injuries
If another party is at fault for a head-on collision that injured you, you have the right to hold them financially responsible for your injuries and related losses in Alabama. You could be entitled to compensation for:
- Hospital bills and other medical expenses
- Incidental costs, such as mileage for medical travel
- Lost wages and benefits from missed time at work
- Projected losses in your future earning capacity
- Subjective losses, such as pain and suffering
- The costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle
How a Skilled Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
At Stokes Stemle, LLC, our knowledgeable head-on car accident lawyers can help you hold at-fault parties accountable and demand fair compensation for your losses by:
- Reviewing your case and determining all potential sources of compensation
- Conducting an independent investigation to uncover valuable evidence
- Communicating with insurance companies and other parties on your behalf
- Interviewing eyewitnesses and reliable experts for supporting testimony
- Managing essential case documents, deadlines, and details for you
- Negotiating aggressively to maximize your settlement with the insurers
- Taking your case to court if the insurance company refuses to settle
Talk to Our Experienced Head-On Car Accident Attorneys in Montgomery, AL Today
The head-on collision injury lawyers at Stokes Stemle, LLC provide compassionate and effective legal representation to injury victims throughout Alabama. If you have been injured in a head-on collision, do not hesitate to get in touch with our legal team to pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us by phone or online today for your free consultation.