Head-On Collision Lawyers
Head-on collisions are some of the most devastating types of car accidents. They result in severe injuries — which can increase the complexity of legal cases. Head-on collisions contribute to approximately 14% of all U.S. traffic fatalities each year.
Our Des Moines head-on collision lawyers are here to guide your through this challenging process and secure the compensation you need to recover. Contact Iowa Lawyers today for a free consultation.
Common Causes of Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are often caused by dangerous driving behaviors or conditions that impair visibility and control. Understanding the most common causes of these accidents can help you determine who may be liable and make sure you have the evidence needed to build a strong case. Common causes include:
- Distracted Driving (Texting, Phone Use): Even a slight distraction can lead a driver to swerve into the wrong lane, hitting head-on traffic.
- Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs: Impaired driving is a leading cause of head-on crashes, and the legal consequences are quite severe.
- Fatigued or Drowsy Driving: Drowsy drivers may nod off, lose control, or veer into oncoming traffic, leading to head-on impacts.
- Reckless Driving: Maneuvers like speeding and unsafe passing frequently result in head-on collisions.
- Poor Weather Conditions: Fog, rain, or snow can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, increasing accident risks.
Injuries Associated with Head-On Collisions
The high-impact nature of head-on collisions often result in severe injuries. It’s important to seek immediate medical care and understand the types of injuries commonly associated with these accidents to better pursue fair compensation. They include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) and Concussions: Head injuries like TBIs are common in head-on collisions and can have long-lasting effects.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord may lead to partial or full paralysis.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Limbs, ribs, and other bones are often broken due to the force of impact and may require surgeries and long recovery times.
- Internal Organ Damage and Internal Bleeding: Serious impacts can cause hidden injuries to organs and may require emergency surgery.
- Emotional Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Psychological effects like PTSD are common after such traumatic events, impacting victims long-term.
Steps to Take After a Head-On Collision
After a head-on collision, take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights.
- Seek Immediate Medical Care: Prompt medical attention is critical, as some injuries may seem minor or not show symptoms right away.
- Contact Law Enforcement: A police report provides an objective record of the accident and can be valuable in proving liability.
- Document the Accident Scene: Take photos and video of the damage to vehicles and any other details that could be relevant.
- Collect Contact Information: Witness statements can support your version of events and aid in determining fault.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Promptly report the accident to your insurance company to comply with policy requirements and begin the claims process.
Determining Liability in Head-On Collision Cases
Determining fault in a head-on collision is a complex process that often involves investigating who veered into the wrong lane and whether road conditions played a role. Gathering evidence such as dashcam footage and other vehicle data, accident reports, assessing road conditions and signage, and expert analysis can be essential to making your case.
Pursuing Compensation for Head-On Collision Victims
If you’ve been injured in a head-on collision, you may be entitled to different types of compensation for your injuries. Compensation can include the following:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation can cover immediate and ongoing medical needs like surgeries, physical therapy, etc.
- Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Potential: Many victims are unable to work temporarily or permanently, and compensation can help replace lost income.
- Property Damage Costs: Repairing or replacing your vehicle and personal belongings can be an overwhelming expense.
- Compensation for Pain and Suffering and Emotional Trauma: Emotional damages recognize the pain and impact of physical and psychological injuries.
How Our Des Moines Head-On Collision Lawyers Can Help
Our experienced attorneys are here to handle the complexities of your case. The details we handle include:
- Conducting a Thorough Investigation of the Accident: Our team gathers and examines all relevant evidence to determine fault and strengthen your case.
- Negotiating With Insurance Companies for Fair Settlements: We handle the discussions and advocate for a settlement that fully addresses all your losses.
- Coordinating With Medical Experts to Assess the Full Extent of Your Injuries: Expert testimony can demonstrate the long-term impact of your injuries.
- Representing You in Court if a Fair Settlement Cannot Be Reached: If necessary, we’ll take your case to trial and present a compelling case on your behalf.
- Making Sure You Receive Maximum Compensation: Our goal is to make sure every aspect of your financial and emotional loss is covered.
Why Time Is Critical in Head-On Collision Cases
Acting quickly after a head-on collision is critical for preserving evidence, securing witness statements, and meeting Iowa’s two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.
Evidence and witness accounts are most accurate right after an accident, so starting your claim promptly strengthens your case. Also, it’s of utmost importance that you seek immediate medical treatment. This safeguards your health but also substantiates your injury claims. Insurers will try to cast doubt on the severity of injuries if there are delays in documentation.
Contact Our Des Moines Head-On Collision Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been in a head-on collision, Iowa Lawyers is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case and let us start the journey toward securing the compensation you deserve.