On another occasion, we were able to talk about cases of car accidents where the impact was from the side or the rear of the car. However, there are cases that are not so common but could include a higher level of severity, despite safety systems such as airbags or seat belts; these are the cases of head-on car accidents.
In this case, the impact comes from the front of the vehicle. Perhaps because some driver is driving against the direction of traffic or because you have taken the wrong way and are going in a different direction than most cars that move that way. These accidents usually involve a higher degree of risk of serious injuries.
Also, there may be a case of glasses flying everywhere, since when directly impacting the largest car glasses, the front ones, it can be broken and shoot out into the air. This could lead to cuts or serious injuries of all kinds.
Although basic elements such as the use of a seat belt, the verification and identification of the operation of airbags, driving carefully, and moving at prudent speeds, may be aspects that mitigate the risk and possible damages in this type of accident, sometimes it is not enough to get rid of negative consequences as a result of these events. These types of events should be analyzed from a holistic perspective.
Why are they still happening if there is a lot of information about them? Why do drivers continue to be carried away by emotions when they should keep calm and move wisely around the city? What are we doing wrong as a society? Is there anything else we can do about it?
These are some of the questions we have asked ourselves after so many years of dealing with cases like those described. We have helped hundreds of people recover fully from this type of event. However, what we have not been able to do is keep this kind of thing from happening. Maybe because there are things we can't control, and no matter how much we emphasize prevention, people are ultimately free to make decisions, although not always the most sensible ones.
Currently, we are emphasizing key aspects of these types of accidents in order to share valuable information with our readers around the world and to make New York, especially the Queens community, a safer place for everyone. It is a safer place for current citizens and for the new generations who deserve to leave home every day knowing that they will return healthy and in peace.
Understanding Head-On Collisions
As we mentioned in the lines above, a head-on collision is when the front ends of two vehicles collide directly, frequently causing severe damage from the opposing forces at play. The high impact and force of the collision make these accidents notorious for their potentially catastrophic effects. On two-lane roads or when a car crosses the center line into oncoming traffic, head-on collisions frequently happen.
Common Causes and Scenarios Leading to Head-On Crashes
- Distracted driving: When a driver is preoccupied with their phone, food, or other activities, they are more likely to veer into oncoming traffic, which can result in head-on collisions.
- Drunk or under-the-influence driving can significantly impair a driver's ability to maintain lane separation, increasing the risk of serious head-on collisions.
- Fatigue: Drivers who are fatigued are more likely to fall asleep at the wheel, veer into oncoming traffic, and collide head-on with other vehicles.
- Poor Weather Conditions: Icy surfaces, slick roads, and reduced visibility from rain or fog can all lead to drivers losing control and colliding head-on.
- Speeding makes it more difficult for a driver to avoid an oncoming car in their path because it slows down their reaction time.
- Illegal Passing: If an oncoming vehicle is not seen in time while attempting to pass another car on a two-lane road with poor visibility, a head-on collision may result.
- Incorrect Lane Changes: When changing lanes abruptly or incorrectly, especially on highways and other multi-lane roads, drivers run the risk of accidentally entering oncoming traffic and causing a head-on collision.
- Medical Emergencies: When a driver suffers a sudden medical emergency, like a heart attack or a seizure, they may lose control of their car and veer into the opposing lane, hitting another car head-on.
How Head-On Collisions Differ from Other Types of Car Accidents
Head-on collisions, instead of rear-end or side-impact collisions, involve the front ends of two vehicles coming together directly. Due to the greater forces involved in head-on collisions and the combined speed of the involved vehicles, more severe injuries are frequently sustained. Especially at higher speeds, fatalities are more likely to result from head-on collisions. Because head-on collision survivors frequently suffer severe injuries in these accidents, they may need ongoing medical care and a lengthy recovery period.
If you have been affected by such a situation, don't be afraid; call our experts! A Queen’s head-on car accident lawyer from our team will help you!
At The Ward Law, we will be attentive to the specific needs of your case, and we will start a process that will help you obtain the benefits that will help repair the damage caused.
Injury Patterns and Medical Treatment
Medical science is constantly evolving. Hopefully, in the not-too-distant future, new medical discoveries will be made that are indeed at the service of humanity so that with the help of knowledge, human beings can alleviate pain and perfect their regeneration and recovery abilities in the face of unfortunate events that threaten their integrity.
In all our years of experience, we have seen hundreds of cases, as many as a doctor could have seen, and although we are not health experts. We do not intend to give recommendations related to health; we have been able to group the most typical cases of injuries that are generated as a result of this type of accident. Some of the most common are the following:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head impacts may cause concussions, contusions, or more serious brain injuries.
- High-impact collisions can damage the spinal cord, which can cause paralysis or mobility problems.
- Impact-related fractures and bone breaks can occur in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
- Broken ribs, lung injuries, and cardiac trauma can all result from impacts to the chest and ribs.
- Internal Organ Damage: The impact's force can harm internal organs, leading to bleeding or dysfunction.
The severity and long-term implications of these injuries:
- TBIs can cause neurological problems that last a lifetime as well as cognitive impairments.
- Permanent paralysis from spinal cord injuries is possible and necessitates ongoing medical attention.
- Chronic pain, reduced mobility, and the requirement for surgery can all be brought on by fractures.
- Breathing issues and increased susceptibility to infections can result from chest injuries.
- Internal organ damage may require surgical procedures and drawn-out recovery times.
Steps to Take After a Head-On Accident in Queens
We know that step-by-step guides make your life easier. Our rational brain finds it easier to deal with outlines and ordering information. That is why with the experience of the years, we have been able to list some important steps to follow after this kind of event. We would like to share it below:
Immediate actions to ensure safety at the scene:
- To prevent additional collisions, move your car to the side of the road if at all possible.
- Look for wounds: Prior to helping the injured, make sure of your safety and the safety of the other passengers.
- Make an emergency service call: To report the collision and ask for medical help if necessary, dial 911.
Importance of gathering evidence, such as photos, witness accounts, and police reports:
- Take pictures: Record vehicle positions, damage, road conditions, and pertinent signage using your phone.
- Obtaining witness data: obtain the contact information of any witnesses who may be able to offer a fair account.
- Police should be contacted: To formally record the collision, and assign blame, and request a police report.
Seeking medical attention and the importance of documenting all treatments and diagnoses:
- Make medical care a priority: To ensure that hidden injuries are treated, seek medical attention right away, even if they seem minor.
- Adhere to medical advice: Follow prescribed medication regimens, attend follow-up appointments, and follow treatment plans. Always be aware of any possible side effects of the medication you receive to avoid any possible complications.
- Document treatments: Keep copies of all prescriptions, diagnoses, medical bills, and other related paperwork.
Additional important aspects to be considered:
- Speak with your insurance provider: Inform your insurance company of the incident and give complete information so that your claim can be processed.
- Defend your innocence: Avoid discussing who is to blame or who is guilty at the scene because this could affect the legal process.
- Restrict conversations about the accident to those with the police and your attorney.
- Speak with a personal injury lawyer: To evaluate your legal options after a head-on auto accident, contact a knowledgeable attorney.
Legal Implications of Head-On Collisions
The legal aspect is undoubtedly our specialty, although, as we have already mentioned, it is not the only focus we give to our cases. We consider that it is important for you to have some legal knowledge in order to prevent your rights from being violated. Some of these relevant legal points that apply to New York are as follows:
Determining fault and liability in head-on car accidents:
- Comparative negligence: New York uses a comparative negligence system that takes into account each party's fault. (Article 1411 of the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules)
- Expert analysis: Accident reconstruction experts may analyze factors like vehicle positioning and road conditions to determine fault.
- Eyewitness testimony: Accounts from witnesses can offer important details about the series of circumstances leading up to the collision.
New York state traffic laws that may impact head-on collision cases:
Right of way:
The right-of-way at intersections is governed by New York Vehicle and Traffic Law 1142. This says. “Except when directed to proceed by a police officer, every driver of a vehicle approaching a stop sign shall stop as required by section eleven hundred seventy-two and after having stopped shall yield the right of way to any vehicle which has entered the intersection from another highway or which is approaching so”
Reckless driving:
Violations of New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1212 involving willful disregard for safety can establish liability.
No-passing zones:
Breaking the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law 1123 in a no-passing zone can be considered a contributing factor to fault.
Potential compensations for victims of head-on collisions in Queens:
- Medical costs: Accident victims may file a claim for compensation for any related medical expenses.
- Damages may be available to make up for the physical and mental suffering brought on by the collision.
- Lost wages: Victims who miss work due to injuries may be entitled to compensation for their lost wages.
- Damage to property: Reimbursement may be used to pay for the repair or replacement of vehicles or other personal property.
- Long-term effects: Victims who sustain long-term or permanent disabilities may be entitled to compensation for their future medical expenses as well as their reduced standard of living.
Consulting with an experienced head-on car accident lawyer:
- A competent head-on accident lawyer can explain your rights and available options for pursuing compensation.
- Investigating the case: To create a compelling argument, attorneys gather proof, speak with witnesses, and examine the incident. Attorneys can advocate for your rights during the claims processing process and negotiate fair settlements with insurance companies.
- Litigation: If necessary, your attorney can help you navigate the courtroom by drafting a lawsuit on your behalf and representing you there.
We have approached the phenomenon of head-on collision accidents taking into account the most relevant aspects that we have seen through our experience. Undoubtedly, there are many additional aspects that would take a great deal of time to address. Perhaps some of these could be developed when you have a personal interview with one of our professionals. We want to be a key player in your recovery process, as well as ensure timely compensation at the end of this journey.
At The Ward Law Group, we are driven by our core value: service. Service to our clients, service to our team, and service to our community.
These words play a transcendental role in our professional work. The creator gave us the gift of the word so that we can assign meaning to what we do. Remember what Mathew taught us in the writings: “But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” We want the words of healing and recovery to come into your life. We also want you to trust us.
Trust that we will make this difficult process a simpler path and that at the end of everything we will find a greater meaning to what happens to you. We are sure that we will see faces of happiness at the conclusion of this process that we will be starting together. Do not waste any more time and contact us. Do not face this alone.