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Underinsured motorist claim for injuries sustained in a head-on motor vehicle collision
Lawyers for Injuries in Head-On Car Accidents in Arlington Heights, Illinois
Car accidents in which two vehicles strike each other while traveling in opposite directions can be devastating. Head-on collisions can result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. These crashes are frequently caused by driver negligence, such as drifting across the centerline of a road or traveling the wrong way on a road or freeway exit. People who have suffered injuries in these types of accidents will need to understand their rights and their options for recovering compensation from negligent drivers.
The Arlington Heights car accident attorneys at Schwartz Injury Law can provide legal support for victims of head-on collisions. We work to help our clients navigate the aftermath of these situations and recover financial compensation for their damages. By investigating the causes of a crash, proving that a driver was liable for a collision due to negligence, and advocating for full compensation for the injuries that have occurred, our lawyers can help injury victims and their families recover from the harm they have suffered.
Causes of Head-On Collisions
Head-on crashes may occur when a vehicle travels in the wrong direction on a road or when a person crosses into the path of oncoming traffic. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include:
- Distracted Driving: When a driver does not fully pay attention while driving, they may drift into the opposite lane and strike oncoming vehicles. Distractions that can lead to head-on collisions include texting while driving, reaching for objects in the vehicle, or looking away from the road while tending to children.
- Drunk Driving: If a driver has been drinking alcohol or using drugs, their ability to maintain control of their vehicle will be impaired. They may veer off course and into the path of oncoming vehicles, or they may not realize that they are driving the wrong way on a road.
- Fatigue: Drowsy drivers may fall asleep at the wheel, causing their vehicle to drift across the road and collide with vehicles traveling in the opposite direction. Even if a driver closes their eyes for a few seconds, they may become involved in a head-on crash.
- Speeding or Reckless Driving: Drivers may try to take curve too fast, or they may attempt risky passing maneuvers. When engaging in these types of dangerous behaviors, a person may lose control and cause a head-on impact.
- Weather or Visibility Issues: Poor road conditions and weather such as fog, snow, or heavy rain can increase the chances that a driver will unintentionally leave their lane and strike oncoming vehicles.
Why Head-On Collisions Are So Dangerous
In a head-on crash, the combined speed of both vehicles will increase the force of impact. Even if each car is traveling at a moderate speed, the energy transferred in the crash can be immense. Safety systems such as airbags and seat belts may not be able to fully protect drivers or passengers from the forces involved in these accidents.
Common injuries suffered in head-on collisions include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: The forceful impact of a collision may cause a person to experience a violent blow or jolt to the head, which can result in injuries affecting the brain.
- Spinal Cord injuries: The force placed upon the body in a crash can lead to broken vertebrae, compressed nerves, or a severed spinal cord. These injuries may lead to paralysis or other long-term mobility issues.
- Fractures: Bones throughout the body may be broken, shattered, or crushed due to intense impact forces in an accident.
- Internal Injuries: A blow to the body may cause damage to organs. Internal bleeding may also occur, and it can put a person's life at risk if immediate treatment is not provided.
- Severe Lacerations: The deep cuts that can occur due to broken glass, sharp metal, or other objects can cause severe blood loss and permanent scarring.
- Burns: Vehicles may catch fire following a collision, putting occupants at risk of severe burn injuries that could lead to significant scarring and disfigurement.
Legal Options for Families After Fatal Head-On Collisions
When a head-on crash results in the death of a loved one, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. They may be able to recover compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support and future income
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Emotional pain and suffering
Our attorney can guide families through the legal process with sensitivity and care, working to make sure they will have the financial resources they need to move forward after suffering tragedies.
Contact Our Arlington Heights Head-On Car Accident Lawyers
At Schwartz Injury Law, our lawyers can provide the compassionate guidance and determined advocacy needed to hold negligent drivers accountable for head-on collisions. We understand the complex factors involved in these cases, and we work to maximize the compensation that victims can receive. Contact our Arlington Heights, IL head-on accident attorneys at 847-582-0157 to arrange a free consultation.