Head-on collisions are characterized as a crash caused when two vehicles are moving straight toward one another. This type of car accident may not be the most common, but it can take a toll on your car and your body. In this article, we will be highlighting the main reasons why a head-on collision could happen and what to do in the event of one.
Causes of Head-on Collisions
Most of the time, car accidents are caused by some form of human error. Here are some of the main things to look out for to prevent causing a head-on collision:
- Poor weather that causes low visibility
- Driving under the influence
- Distracted driving
- Fatigued driving
What to Do in the Event of a Head-on Collision
While every accident is different, there are necessary actions that must always take place in the event of a head-on collision or any car accident:
- Assess yourself for injuries and immediately contact 911 to alert the police and bring the necessary medical attention to the scene of the accidents
- Exchange information with the other driver. Allstate advises that you should obtain the following information:
- Full name
- Contact information
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license information
- License plate model
- A good description of the vehicle
- Identify the police officers on the scene and give them your statement
- Ask where you can obtain a copy of the accident report
- Talk to witnesses to get their statements and information, if possible
- Undergo any necessary medical assessment
- Obtain and keep any records and associated medical and insurance bills
Types of Injuries from Head-on Collisions
Traumatic Brain Injuries– Extreme head jolts and bumps can cause brain damage due to an outside force disrupting the brain’s normal function. Victims of head-on collisions can be thrown from their seats and hit their head on the windshield or steering wheel, which can cause the brain to strike the skull, which leads to temporary or permanent brain damage.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis – When two cars collide head-on, a person’s body will go through some harsh and sudden movements resulting in injuries like whiplash, herniated and ruptured discs, spinal fractures, and other severe spine and neck related injuries. In extreme cases, partial or total paralysis can result from injuries sustained from a head-on collision.
Broken bones – It’s not uncommon to break bones in the event of a serious car crash. Areas like the ribs and the arms are most likely to be injured due to the accident. However, any bone in the body is susceptible to braking depending on the two cars’ speeds and how severe the wreckage is.
Lacerations – Lacerations occur from blunt trauma, causing a deep cut in the skin and body tissue. This can happen when broken glass and other sharp objects make contact with your skin during the crash.
Burns – If the accident is severe enough, you can be exposed to heat and toxic chemicals that can burn the skin. In some cases, minor burns can be treated at home, while second, third, and fourth-degree burns will require medical attention, according to GoHealth Urgent Care.
Call Flickenger Sutterfield and Boulton Personal Injury Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in a car accident and are looking for financial compensation, the law offices of Flickenger Sutterfield and Boulton can help. With over 25 years of supporting Utah citizens in gaining fair compensation after head-on collisions and other car accidents, our lawyers are eager to help you with your case. With multiple offices in Northern Utah, we serve everyone from Provo to Salt Lake City. Contact us today for a free evaluation.