Front-end car accidents—also known as head-on collisions—are among the most dangerous types of motor vehicle accidents. They involve the front ends of two cars colliding. Usually, the vehicles are traveling in opposite directions, and at highway speeds, significantly increasing the force involved in the wreck.
Head-on collisions often lead to catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal injuries, broken bones, and crush injuries. Injured motorists may experience severe pain, trauma, and an extended recovery period. Additionally, the recovery process is expensive. Medical bills and time away from work can put families in a financially vulnerable position. Fortunately, our auto accident attorneys can help victims of front-end car accidents in Wilmington understand and pursue their legal options for recovering compensation for their injuries and losses. Reach out to Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz & Bhaya to get started.
Fault in Front-End Collisions
Since a head-on collision involves two vehicles colliding in front, most often, one of the drivers must have been driving in the wrong lane at the time of the impact. Generally, that driver will be the one at fault for the accident. However, proving who was in the wrong lane can be trickier than many people imagine. These wrecks often happen on isolated roads without witnesses. Plus, the force of the collision can move the vehicles, making it difficult to determine where they were at the start of the accident.
A Wilmington attorney with experience handling front-end car accidents knows how to gather evidence to establish fault. They carefully examine accident scene photographs, police reports, and any witness accounts of the accident to help them understand the wreck. They may even employ accident reconstruction specialists to help demonstrate what occurred.
Causes of Head-On Collisions
It would seem that a front-end collision would be the most accessible type of wreck to avoid since both drivers should be able to see each other. Each has some opportunity to try to avoid the wreck. However, often, one car suddenly veers into the wrong lane, diminishing that opportunity. In other circumstances, the drivers may have limited visibility.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of drivers drifting from their lanes. Looking away from the road for just a few moments can lead to people crossing the center line. Common distractions include changing songs on the radio, reading texts, talking on the phone, eating, drinking, putting on makeup, and looking for stuff in the vehicle. Distraction can be challenging to establish unless it involves an electronic device. However, many drivers will admit to distraction at the time of the accident, so getting access to police interview reports can be critical.
Driving While Under the Influence
Driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs is another potential cause of head-on wrecks in Wilmington. Drunk drivers have impaired reaction time and judgment, which can lead them to drive in the wrong lane. Plus, blurred vision can make it difficult for them to see oncoming traffic. Even if they do react to it in time, they may over- or under-correct. The police should perform tests on drivers they suspect of being under the influence at the time of a crash. These tests can go a long way toward proving fault.
Drowsy Driving
While not discussed as often as drunk driving, drowsy driving is another leading culprit in head-on collisions. Just like intoxicated drivers, sleepy drivers have impaired judgment and longer reaction times. Plus, they may nod off behind the wheel, drift into another lane, and not wake in time to correct themselves. It can be challenging to prove drowsy driving in passenger vehicle cases. However, if the driver was a commercial driver, circumstantial evidence may bolster a drowsy driving claim.
Rely on a Wilmington Attorney to Help Pursue a Head-On Collision Claim
A head-on collision is a terrifying experience. The combined force of the two vehicles often leads to devastating injuries. In most cases, one of the parties is clearly to blame. However, that does not mean that they will accept responsibility — instead, they may twist the truth and try to blame you for the wreck. You need the help of an attorney to establish fault and get you the compensation that you deserve. Schedule a consultation with the team at Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, & Bhaya to learn more about front-end car accidents in Wilmington.