Lawyer For Head On Collision Car Accident
Head-on collisions are one of the most rare car accident types, but they are the most dangerous. Head-on collisions account for just 2% of all car accidents, and yet they are responsible for 10% of traffic fatalities and 63% of car crash injuries in the US.
When two vehicles collide head-on, the results can be devastating for everyone involved, quickly exceeding auto insurance limits. If you or a loved one have been injured in this type of accident, you may need to consult with head-on collision car accident lawyers to help recover from your damages.
Causes of Head-On Collisions in Kansas
Head-on collisions happen when two cars are moving in opposite directions, so their front ends impact each other. Because both vehicles are in motion, the damage from such an accident is more severe than collisions with stationary objects.
Head-on collisions typically happen when one vehicle is driving the wrong way on a roadway, either after turning into oncoming traffic or drifting into the oncoming lane. The most common causes of head-on collisions are:
- Distracted or impaired driving. The leading cause of head-on collisions is that the at-fault driver was distracted or intoxicated. They may be paying attention to their phone or devices, turn to interact with other passengers in the car, or simply lose awareness for a moment.
- Weather or road conditions. Another leading cause of head-on collisions is weather or road conditions. In narrow roads with sharp curves or steep hills, it is easy for a driver to briefly enter the oncoming lane without the proper visibility to account for oncoming vehicles. When roads are slippery due to rain, ice, or high winds, it is easy to lose control of a vehicle and leave your lane. Poor visibility of road signage can also lead people to incorrectly turn onto an exit ramp or one-way street, leaving them driving into oncoming traffic.
- Driver fatigue. Driving while tired or sleepy is a leading cause of all accidents. Drivers who are tired are more likely to make poor decisions and drive unsafely while also having a slower reaction time and less situational awareness. It is critical to remain alert and aware while driving.
- Reckless driving. While the above factors cause most head-on collisions, some of these accidents are caused by simple recklessness. Speeding around corners or improper passing may be caused by distraction or fatigue, but sometimes, it is just the result of careless or aggressive driving.
As a rule, you can often avoid head-on collisions by driving slowly and defensively, paying attention to the road and weather conditions, and being alert to the drivers around you. If you see a car headed straight towards you, and it seems that an accident is unavoidable, swerve the steering wheel and try to avoid a head-on impact if possible. Even if you still get into an accident, every other type of car collision is less hazardous than a head-on crash.
Common Head-On Collision Injuries in Kansas
Head-on car accidents typically cause both drivers to make sudden impacts with the steering wheel and/or dashboard. This can cause extremely serious injuries, including:
- Neck and spinal cord injuries, including whiplash
- Broken bones, especially in the upper body
- Internal injuries, including internal bleeding and organ damage
- Chest and back injuries that typically involve blunt force trauma.
- Traumatic brain injuries, which are a major cause of death and disability and can result in loss of cognitive function and mood and personality disorders
These injuries can be life-changing, causing enormous medical bills, lost wages, permanent disability, and even death. The process of recovery can be slow and expensive, and a family may have to adjust to provide increased support and therapies while managing a reduced income. In the case of fatal injuries after a head-on collision, a family may have to pay for a funeral and other expenses while dealing with the financial and emotional losses.
Liability for Head-On Collisions in Kansas
Kansas has unusual car accident liability laws, combining some of the features of “at-fault” and “no-fault” states. Every driver in Kansas is required to carry the following minimum levels of car insurance:
- Liability coverage: $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident bodily injury liability, and $25,000 per accident property damage liability
- Personal injury protection (PIP) coverage: $4,500 per person for medical expenses, $900 per month for disability or survivor benefits due to lost wages, $25 per day for in-home care services for up to one year, $2,000 for funeral or burial expenses, and $4,500 for rehabilitation expenses
- Uninsured/underinsured driver coverage: $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident
How Can Bretz Injury Law Help?
A study by the Insurance Institute shows that people who hire an attorney receive up to three times higher settlements than people who do not seek legal assistance. Working with a head-on collision car accident lawyer helps you understand your rights and get all the compensation you and your family deserve. If you or a loved one have been involved in a head-on collision car accident in Kansas, contact Bretz Injury Law for a free case review today.
Find out how we can help you. Schedule an appointment today with us. We’re here for you when you need us most.
