One of the most catastrophic accidents on Sacramento’s roads is the head-on collision. The dynamics of this accident can result in life-changing and fatal injuries for the people involved. If you were recently injured in a head-on collision, a Sacramento car accident lawyer can be instrumental in helping you get the justice and financial compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Head-On Collisions
A head-on collision describes a crash where the front ends of two vehicles collide with each other. Two cars may be traveling toward each other due to many examples of driver negligence, or the failure to drive with proper care. Broken traffic laws and reckless driving behaviors often play a role in these accidents.
Distracted Driving
Activities such as texting or using in-car infotainment systems divert attention from the road. A driver who isn’t paying enough attention to the road may miss traffic signs or enter a road (such as a freeway on-ramp) traveling in the wrong direction.
Impaired Driving
Intoxication could cause a driver to veer into oncoming traffic. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s judgment and reaction times.
Speeding and Improper Passing
Reckless driving behaviors such as speeding and passing when it is unsafe to do on a two-lane road increase the risk of head-on collisions. Aggressive driving and road rage can also result in head-on collisions.
Road Conditions
Issues such as potholes on poorly maintained roads or inadequate lighting and signage can contribute to head-on collisions.
Consequences of Head-On Collisions
Two cars crashing head-on can impart an enormous amount of force into both vehicles, resulting in serious injuries to occupants. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Permanent paralysis
- Internal bleeding
- Bone fractures
- Soft-tissue damage
- Amputations
- Emotional injuries
Victims may experience physical pain, financial burdens from medical expenses and lost wages, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression from head-on collisions.
Legal Considerations and Compensation
In Sacramento, victims of head-on collisions can receive financial compensation for their bills and losses by filing claims against those at fault. This is how California’s fault-based car insurance law works. The driver at fault for causing the collision must pay, typically using his or her automobile insurance.
Determining Liability
Establishing liability, or financial responsibility, for a head-on collision takes investigating which driver violated a law or acted negligently in connection to the crash. The injured victim must prove using evidence that the other driver caused or contributed to the head-on collision.
Types of Recoverable Damages
A successful insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit following a head-on collision could lead to the recovery of financial compensation for many of your related damages or losses. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage. Punitive damages may also be available if the at-fault party is guilty of gross negligence or recklessness, such as drunk driving.
Seek Legal Support After a Head-On Collision in Sacramento
If you’ve been involved in a head-on collision, consult a qualified Sacramento car accident attorney to explore your legal options. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and maximize compensation. Contact Jacoby & Meyers to get started with a free initial consultation about your case and legal options.