On another occasion, we talked about cases of car accidents where the impact was from the side or the rear of the car. However, some cases 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 much 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 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.
The Ward Law Group emphasizes key aspects of these accidents to share valuable information with our readers worldwide and make New York, especially the Queens community, safer for everyone. It is a safer place for current citizens and the new generations who deserve to leave home daily, knowing they will return healthy and peaceful.
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. Head-on collisions frequently happen on two-lane roads or when a car crosses the center line into oncoming traffic.
Common Causes and Scenarios Leading to Head-On Crashes
- Distracted driving: When drivers are preoccupied with their phones, 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: Fatigued Drivers 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 risk 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
Instead of rear-end or side-impact collisions, head-on collisions involve the front ends of two vehicles coming together directly. Head-on collisions and high speeds cause more serious injuries. Especially at higher speeds, fatalities are more likely to result from head-on collisions.
Survivors of head-on collisions often suffer severe injuries. They may also need long-term medical care. Additionally, their recovery time can be quite lengthy.
If you have been affected by such a situation, don't hesitate to call our experts! A head-on collision lawyer from our team in Queens will help you!
We will listen to your case's specific needs at our law firm. Then, we will begin a process to help you get the benefits that will fix the harm done.
Injury Patterns and Medical Treatment
Medical science is constantly evolving. In the future, we aim to make new medical discoveries. These discoveries will help people reduce pain and improve their ability to heal and recover. They will specifically target accidents or illnesses that harm the body.
Throughout our experience, we've witnessed numerous cases comparable to those a doctor might encounter despite not being health professionals. 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. This injury is considered catastrophic.
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 our years of experience, we have been able to list some important steps to follow after this kind of event. We want 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 possible.
- Look for wounds: Before helping the injured, ensure your safety and the safety of the other passengers.
- Make an emergency service call: Dial 911 to report the collision and ask for medical help if necessary.
Importance of gathering evidence:
- Take pictures: Record vehicle positions, damage, road conditions, and pertinent signage using your phone.
- Obtaining witness data: obtain the contact information of witnesses who can offer a fair account.
- Contact the police: To formally record the collision, assign blame, and request a police report.
Seeking medical attention:
- Make medical care a priority: To ensure that hidden injuries are treated, seek medical attention immediately, even if they seem minor.
- Adhere to medical advice: Follow prescribed medication regimens, attend follow-up appointments, and follow treatment plans. To avoid complications, always be aware of any possible side effects of the medication you receive.
- 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 to process your claim.
- 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 head-on car crash attorney.
- Speak with a personal injury lawyer: Contact a knowledgeable head-on car crash lawyer to evaluate your legal options after a head-on auto accident.
Legal Implications of Head-On Collisions
We specialize in the legal aspect and focus on other aspects of our cases. It's important to know the law to protect your rights and prevent them 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 considers 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: Witness accounts can offer important details about the circumstances leading to the collision.
New York state traffic laws that may impact head-on collision cases:
Right of way:
New York Vehicle and Traffic Law 1142 governs the right-of-way at intersections. 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 contribute to a fault.
Potential compensations for victims of head-on collisions in Queens:
- Medical costs: Accident victims may claim compensation for any related medical expenses.
- Damages: They may be available to compensate for the physical and mental suffering caused by the collision.
- Lost wages: Victims who miss work due to injuries may be entitled to compensation for their lost wages.
- Property damage: Reimbursement may be used to pay for repairing or replacing vehicles or other personal property.
- Long-term effects: Victims with long-term or permanent disabilities may be compensated for their future medical expenses and reduced living standards.
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. Personal injury attorneys can advocate for your rights during the claims processing and negotiate fair settlements with insurance companies.
- Litigation: If necessary, your attorney can help you navigate the courtroom by drafting a lawsuit and representing you there.
We have approached the phenomenon of head-on collision accidents, considering the most relevant aspects we have seen through our experience. Undoubtedly, many additional aspects would take much 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 and ensure timely compensation at the end of this journey.
Contact a Head-On Accident Lawyer in Queens
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.
We will simplify this difficult process and find greater meaning in what happens to you at the end of everything. We are sure that we will see faces of happiness after this process, and we will start together. Do not waste any more time. Contact us at 855-DOLOR-55 to schedule a free consultation.