Head-on collisions are more likely to result in fatalities than most other types of accidents. In fact, according to a study published by the National Transportation Safety Board, the fatality rate for head-on collisions is 27 times higher than the fatality rate for other kinds of crashes.
Even if you are lucky enough to survive a head-on collision, you might face an uphill climb to recovery, and the cost of lost income and medical bills can quickly spiral out of control.
It is common for insurance companies to take advantage of such a desperate time by offering a low settlement. But if the settlement does not cover your future damages, you could wind up in overwhelming debt.
Rather than trust the insurance company’s assessment of your claim, contact the Robson Law Firm to discuss your case. We have been representing the injured for more than two decades. Call 512-345-8200 to schedule a free case evaluation with an Austin accident lawyer.
Let’s examine a few of the most common causes of head-on collisions:
- Distracted Driving
From smartphones to GPS devices to billboards, drivers face countless distractions on the road today. These distractions are often the culprit behind head-on collisions because they cause drivers to drift out of their lane.
- Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. According to the National Sleep Foundation, driving after being awake for a full 24 hours is similar to driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.10.
- Failing to Account for Road Conditions
Poor weather, work zones, and congestion can all affect the road conditions. It is usually necessary to travel slower than the posted speed limit in these scenarios. When motorists fail to adjust their driving to the road conditions, they increase the risk of causing a wrong-way collision.
- Drunk Driving
Alcohol affects your balance and coordination, which is why intoxicated drivers struggle to stay in their lane. If a motorist is drifting or swerving in traffic, a head-on collision is more likely to happen.
- Ignoring Traffic Signs
Driving the wrong way down a one-way road is a surefire way to cause a head-on collision.
If you sustained injuries in a head-on crash, you will need extensive evidence to prove negligence, liability, and the value of your damages. Some causes of wrong-way crashes are fairly easy to prove. For example, a toxicology report can provide definitive evidence that the other motorist was inebriated at the time of the accident.
Other causes of these crashes are harder to prove. This is where an accident lawyer can help.
If you would like to discuss your case with a personal injury attorney in Austin, turn to the Robson Law Firm. Call 512-345-8200 to schedule a free consultation. You can learn more about car accident claims in Texas by visiting USAttorneys.com.