All car accidents have the potential to be traumatic. But head-on collisions can have particularly devastating consequences. These horrific crashes can cause severe injuries and significant disruptions in the lives of those involved. If you suffered injuries in an Atlanta head-on car accident someone else caused, you need the guidance and support of an experienced car accident attorney.
The Atlanta-based personal injury lawyers at Butler Kahn understand the unique challenges of head-on collision cases. Our team is here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our offices today for a free consultation, and let us be your advocates in seeking justice.
What Are Some of the Main Causes of Head-On Collisions in Atlanta?
Head-on crashes can occur for many reasons, several of which involve negligence on the part of another driver. Some common causes of head-on collisions in Atlanta include:
- Drunk driving – Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s judgment, reflexes, and ability to maintain control. This impairment increases the risk of head-on collisions.
- Distracted driving – Distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or operating GPS devices take a driver’s attention from the road. This lack of awareness makes them more likely to veer into oncoming traffic.
- Speeding – Exceeding the speed limit reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, raising the likelihood of losing control and causing a head-on collision.
- Not following traffic laws – Aggressive maneuvering, improper lane changes, or disregarding traffic signals can lead to head-on collisions.
- Hydroplaning – Wet and slippery road conditions combined with excessive speed can cause a vehicle to hydroplane, resulting in a loss of control and the potential to end up in the wrong lane.
- Drowsy driving – Fatigued drivers are prone to reduced focus, slower reaction times, and even falling asleep behind the wheel. Driving while tired puts themselves and others at risk of head-on collisions.
- Bad road design – Inadequate signage, poorly designed intersections, or lack of proper road markings can contribute to confusion and cause motorists to drive in the wrong direction.
- Poor visibility – Factors such as heavy fog, rain, or poorly maintained street lighting can impair visibility, making it difficult for drivers to see oncoming traffic.
Why Are Head-On Collision Injuries Often More Severe Than Other Car Crashes?
Head-on accidents are known for causing particularly severe injuries. The force involved in a head-on collision is significantly greater than in other car crashes, as two vehicles collide front-to-front. The resulting injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care – which all result in substantial medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
What Are the Most Frequent Injuries in a Head-On Car Accident?
Head-on collisions can lead to a range of injuries that can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s physical and emotional well-being. They can include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) – A head-on impact can cause the occupants’ heads to strike the steering wheel, dashboard, windshield, or seat back. This impact leads to concussions, contusions, or more severe TBIs.
- Spinal cord injuries and fractures – The violent jolt from a head-on collision can cause spinal cord damage, resulting in paralysis or long-term disabilities. Fractures to the neck, back, or limbs are also common.
- Whiplash – The sudden back-and-forth motion of the head during impact can cause whiplash, resulting in neck strain, pain, and limited mobility.
- Internal bleeding and organ damage – The impact can cause internal injuries, including bleeding, damage to vital organs, or internal lacerations.
- Limb injuries – Victims of head-on collisions often sustain harm to their arms and legs, including fractures, dislocations, crushing injuries, and amputations.
- Facial injuries – Due to the point of impact, facial and dental injuries are common consequences of head-on collisions.
- Psychological harm – Some of the most significant effects of head-on collisions are psychological, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
- Fatalities – Head-on collisions have a higher likelihood of causing fatalities due to the severity of the injuries sustained.
Who Is At Fault in a Head-On Car Wreck?
Determining fault in a head-on collision requires a careful analysis of the circumstances of the accident. The at-fault party is generally the one whose negligence or recklessness led to the collision. This could include a driver who was under the influence of alcohol, distracted, speeding, or violating traffic laws. In some cases, a vehicle manufacturer or the entity in charge of maintaining the road may also bear fault. A skilled Georgia car accident attorney can determine who bears liability for your losses and work to hold them accountable.
What If I Am Partly to Blame for the Accident?
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence system. This rule means that even if you are partially at fault for the head-on collision, you may still be entitled to recover compensation. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if the insurance company or court considers you 20 percent at fault and your losses amount to $100,000, they will reduce your compensation to $80,000. However, you must be less than 50 percent at fault to be entitled to any recovery at all.
What Compensation Can I Get After a Head-On Collision Accident?
After a head-on collision, you may be eligible for various forms of compensation, including:
- Economic damages – Economic damages include money for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, future medical costs, and property damage.
- Non-economic damages – These funds are compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages – In hit-and-run or drunk driving crashes, a court may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Is There a Time Limit for Filing My Car Accident Claim in Georgia?
Georgia has a statute of limitations that restricts your time to file a car accident claim. In most cases, you must file a personal injury claim within two years of the accident date. However, consulting with an attorney as soon as possible is crucial to ensure you meet all applicable deadlines.
Our Atlanta Head-On Collision Accident Lawyers Are Ready to Talk with You
At Butler Kahn, our team of experienced Atlanta head-on collision accident lawyers is passionate about fighting for the rights of injured individuals. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll head-on collisions can take on those who have survived these horrible crashes. If you have suffered injuries in a head-on collision in Atlanta, contact our offices for a free consultation to learn more about your options. Let us provide the legal guidance and representation you need to pursue the compensation you deserve.
