Head on collisions are among the deadliest kinds of crashes. The impact generated from a head on auto accidents is immense, which is why they typically result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found in the mid-2000s that while head on crashes comprised just 2 percent of all collisions, they accounted for 10 percent of all traffic fatalities. Even when drivers and passengers are wearing seat belts, they can still suffer from severe injuries given the force involved in these collisions.
The team at our Houston, TX law firm would like to consider the dangers of front end crashes, why they occur, and what legal options you may have following such collisions.
Head On Car Accident Statistics
According to numbers from the Insurance Information Institute, there were 3,278 head on collision fatalities in 2015. Overall, head on collisions accounted for approximately 143,000 accidents in the US during that year.
This number does not take into account potential front end accidents that occurred at an angle. Collisions at an angle resulted in 5,778 total fatalities, and accounted for more than 1.3 million collisions in 2015.
Collisions on Two-Lane Highways
Head on collisions often occur when a driver is trying to overtake a slower vehicle on a two-lane highway. In these instances, the driver behind a slower vehicle winds up in the lane of traffic for vehicles traveling in the opposite direction. These kinds of actions on the road are unsafe as vehicles traveling in the opposite direction may suddenly come into view, which makes swerves or veering out of the way almost impossible.
Driving the Wrong Way on One-Way Streets
If drivers makes a wrong turn or are not paying attention to traffic signs, they could wind up traveling the wrong way on a one-way street. The dangers in these situations are obvious given the hazards of oncoming traffic. Always be attentive while you are on the road.
Accidents at Intersections
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) estimates that more than half of all fatal and injury collisions occur in or around intersections. Given the flow of traffic and the dangers involved in making left turns (particularly unguarded left turns), this is not surprising. The chances of a head on or front angle collision can be high in these parts of the road.
Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable
An attorney can note the evidence in your collision and the circumstances that caused the crash to happen. If a negligent driver was responsible for the crash, we can help you seek damages from them to cover medical bills, vehicle damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even funerary costs in the case of fatal collisions. Your lawyers will offer peace of mind during this difficult time.
Contact an Experienced Auto Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you care about has been harmed in a head on car accident, be sure to contact a skilled personal injury attorney. We at the Law Office Of Shane R. Kadlec will fight for you in your time of legal need.
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