A small percentage of these accidents occur yearly, but they still pose a threat of severe injuries to drivers and passengers involved. When a Yonkers head-on car accident happens, it's because someone was negligent.
An experienced head-on accident lawyer from The Ward Law Group will assist you in being shielded from receiving lowball offers from your insurance company, which will employ tactics to avoid paying full coverage.
A head-on collision, also known as a frontal collision or a head-on crash, occurs when the front end of one vehicle directly impacts the front end of another car traveling in the opposite direction.
This type of car accident is considered one of the most dangerous and severe forms of accidents due to the combined force of both vehicles' speeds.
Key characteristics of a head-on collision
- Opposing Directions: The vehicles involved are traveling towards each other on the same road or in adjacent lanes.
- Frontal Impact: The point of impact occurs at the front ends of both vehicles, typically involving the front bumpers, hoods, and engine areas.
- High Impact Forces: Due to the combined speeds of the vehicles, head-on collisions often result in significant damage and can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
- Potential for Catastrophic Consequences: Depending on the speed and size of the vehicles involved, head-on collisions can lead to catastrophic outcomes for the occupants.
Common Causes of Head-On Collisions
Wrong-Way Driving:
Drivers sometimes accidentally enter a lane or road going the wrong way. This can occur when they are confused, impaired, or distracted.
Distracted Driving:
When drivers are distracted by texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio, they may inadvertently drift into oncoming traffic.
Impaired Driving:
Alcohol, drugs, or other substances affect a driver's thinking, movement, and response speed, increasing the chance of drifting into oncoming traffic.
Fatigue:
Drowsy or fatigued drivers have reduced focus and slower reaction times, increasing the likelihood of drifting into oncoming traffic.
Overpassing in Unsafe Conditions:
Attempting to pass a vehicle on a two-lane road without clear visibility or adequate passing zones can lead to head-on collisions.
Poor Weather Conditions:
Reduced visibility, slippery roads, and other adverse weather conditions can contribute to drivers inadvertently crossing into oncoming lanes.
Mechanical Failures:
Sudden and unexpected vehicle malfunctions, such as brake failures or steering issues, can lead to a loss of control and a head-on collision.
Typical Injuries Sustained In Head-On Car Accidents
Head-on car accidents, often characterized by the high-impact collision of two vehicles traveling in opposite directions, can lead to various injuries for drivers and passengers involved.
Understanding these common injuries is crucial for victims seeking compensation and medical treatment after such accidents.
Whiplash and Neck Injuries
Whiplash is one of the most prevalent injuries in head-on collisions, which occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and backward. This rapid motion can strain the neck's muscles and ligaments, resulting in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. In severe cases, it may lead to more significant neck injuries.
Chest and Abdominal Injuries
The force of impact in a head-on collision can cause occupants to be forcefully thrust against their seatbelts or the vehicle's interior.
This can lead to chest contusions, broken ribs, or even internal injuries in the chest and abdominal areas. These injuries can range from minor bruising to severe organ damage.
Head Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
A head-on collision's sudden deceleration and impact can result in head injuries, ranging from concussions to traumatic brain injuries.
Even if an airbag deploys, occupants may still experience head trauma. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, memory loss, and, in severe cases, long-term cognitive impairment.
Fractures and Orthopedic Injuries
The force of a head-on collision can cause occupants to sustain fractures in various parts of their body, particularly the arms, legs, and pelvis. These injuries may require extensive medical treatment, including surgery, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
Spinal Cord Injuries
In severe head-on collisions, there is a risk of spinal cord injuries. This occurs when the spinal cord sustains damage, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis. Victims of spinal cord injuries often face long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
Psychological and Emotional Trauma
Beyond physical injuries, head-on collisions can profoundly impact a person's mental and emotional well-being. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common psychological effects that may require therapy or counseling.
Determining Fault And Liability in Head-On Car Accidents
A head-on car accident lawyer can help you follow the critical steps toward seeking compensation for you as a victim.
This process involves thoroughly examining the circumstances surrounding the accident, gathering evidence, and navigating New York State laws. Here's how a personal injury lawyer specializing in head-on car accidents in Yonkers can assist victims in this endeavor:
1. Investigation and Evidence Collection
A seasoned personal injury lawyer understands the importance of a comprehensive investigation. They will work diligently to gather crucial evidence, including police reports, witness statements, photographs of the accident scene, and expert opinions.
This evidence is a foundation for building a solid case and establishing fault.
2. Expert Analysis of Accident Reconstruction
In complex head-on collisions, an accident reconstruction expert may be enlisted to provide a detailed analysis of the events leading up to the crash.
This expert can recreate the accident scenario, shedding light on factors like vehicle speeds, braking patterns, and points of impact. Their findings can be instrumental in determining which party was at fault.
3. Review of Traffic Violations and Negligent Behavior
A head on collision lawyer will scrutinize any potential traffic violations or negligent behavior exhibited by the parties involved.
This may include speeding, reckless driving, distracted driving, or impaired driving. Identifying such misconduct can significantly influence the allocation of liability.
4. Application of New York Comparative Negligence Law
New York follows a comparative negligence system, which means that even if a victim shares some degree of fault, they may still be entitled to compensation. However, it could be reduced based on their level of responsibility.
A skilled head on car crash lawyer will assess the circumstances and protect the victim's rights, regardless of any potential shared fault.
5. Negotiation and Advocacy
A personal injury lawyer's expertise extends to negotiating with insurance companies and advocating on behalf of the victim. They are well-versed in the tactics used by insurers to minimize payouts.
By leveraging their knowledge of New York State laws and experience handling head-on collision cases, the lawyer can pursue fair compensation for their client.
6. Litigation if Necessary
In some cases, reaching a fair settlement through negotiation proves challenging. In such instances, a skilled head on car crash attorney will be prepared to take the case to court.
They will present a compelling argument, backed by solid evidence, to demonstrate the at-fault party's liability and secure the compensation the victim rightfully deserves.
Potential Compensations For Victims
Victims of head-on car accidents in Yonkers may be entitled to various types of compensation to help alleviate the physical, emotional, and financial burdens they face in the aftermath of such a traumatic event. These compensations fall into three main categories.
Economic Damages
Economic or special damages are quantifiable losses with a clear monetary value. They are intended to cover the tangible expenses incurred as a direct result of the accident.
These tangible expenses include medical costs, such as hospital bills, surgeries, medication costs, rehabilitation, and any necessary future medical care related to the accident.
Victims may be compensated for their lost income due to their inability to work during recovery. Additionally, if the victim's earning capacity is permanently impacted, future lost earning capacity may be awarded.
They also can claim for property damage. This encompasses the cost of repairing or replacing the damaged vehicle and any personal property inside the car that was also damaged.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic or general damages refer to losses that are not easily quantifiable in monetary terms. These are subjective and relate to the pain, suffering, and emotional distress experienced by the victim
Examples of non-economic damages are:
- Pain and Suffering
- Emotional Distress and Mental Anguish
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
- Loss of Consortium
- Loss of a Bodily Function
Punitive Damages
While relatively rare, punitive damages may be awarded in cases where the at-fault party's behavior was reckless, malicious, or intentionally harmful. They are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from similar conduct.
For instance, If the at-fault driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol and caused the head-on collision, a court may consider punitive damages to send a strong message against drunk driving.
Contact a Yonkers Head-On Accident Lawyer
If you or a family member are uncomfortable dealing with these kinds of accidents, don't hesitate to contact a personal injury lawyer specializing in Head-on accidents today.
The Ward Law Group understands how difficult and complex these cases can be, so let us help you navigate and win the fair compensation you deserve.
If you are alone fighting against insurance companies that will do whatever's possible to not pay in full, you might be getting compensation that doesn't reflect your actual losses.
Thousands of people have trusted our legal firm, and we have been successful over the last 12 years. Call us now for a free consultation of your case; if you have any questions, one of our lawyers will answer them immediately. Our number is 855-DOLOR-55.