A head-on collision is one of the most devastating accidents a driver can experience. The sheer force of two vehicles crashing into each other can leave victims with catastrophic injuries, emotional trauma, and a long path to recovery.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a head-on crash in Sacramento, you’re probably dealing with mounting medical bills, missed work, and a lot of unanswered questions. You don’t have to figure this out alone. At Berg Injury Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be, and we’re here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Head-On Collisions
Many factors can contribute to head-on collisions, some of which stem from driver negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Using a phone, texting, adjusting the radio, or engaging in other distractions can cause a driver to drift into oncoming traffic.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination, increasing the likelihood of a driver veering into another lane.
- Wrong-Way Driving or Unsafe Passing: Confusion, misjudgment, or reckless decisions like passing on a two-lane road can result in devastating crashes.
- Drowsy Driving and Driver Fatigue: Tired drivers may nod off or fail to maintain control of their vehicle, leading to unintended lane departures.
- Poor Road Conditions or Signage Issues: Inadequate road maintenance, missing signs, or unclear lane markings can lead to drivers unintentionally crossing into oncoming traffic.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Head-On Collisions
Due to the extreme impact of head-on crashes, victims often suffer life-altering injuries, including:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) and Concussions: The force of impact can cause severe head trauma, leading to cognitive impairment, memory loss, or permanent brain damage.
- Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, affecting a victim’s mobility and quality of life.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: High-impact crashes often lead to multiple fractures, requiring extensive surgeries and rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries and Organ Damage: Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding, punctured lungs, or ruptured organs, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Emotional Trauma and PTSD: Surviving a severe accident can lead to long-term psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Determining Fault in Head-On Collisions
Determining fault in a head-on collision is essential for obtaining compensation. In California, establishing liability requires thorough investigation by an experienced Sacramento lawyer. Some critical investigative steps include:
- Police Reports and Eyewitness Statements: Official accident reports and witness testimonies help reconstruct what happened and who was at fault.
- Accident Reconstruction: Experts analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions to determine the mechanics of the crash.
- Knowledge of Comparative Negligence Laws: Multiple parties can share fault under California law. Even if you are partially responsible, you may still recover damages, but your percentage of fault will reduce your compensation.
Compensation Available for Victims
Victims of head-on collisions may be entitled to compensation to help with the following damages:
- Medical Expenses: Current and future coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and more.
- Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity: Compensation for time missed at work and any long-term disability affecting future income.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and decreased quality of life.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for vehicle repairs or replacement.
Steps to Take After a Head-On Collision
Taking immediate action after a head-on collision can help protect your legal rights and strengthen your claim:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention. Even if you feel fine, injuries may not be immediately apparent. Getting checked by a doctor ensures proper documentation of injuries.
- Call the Police and Obtain a Report. A police report provides an official accident record, which is crucial for proving fault.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene. Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company. Notify your insurer, but avoid providing a recorded statement without legal guidance.
- Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer. Speaking with an attorney before dealing with insurance companies can prevent mistakes that may weaken your claim.
Why Choose Berg Injury Lawyers?
Berg Injury Lawyers has decades of experience representing Sacramento car accident victims. Our firm has a proven track record of securing significant settlements for clients facing medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. We understand the complexities of head-on collision cases and are dedicated to fighting for maximum compensation.
You might be worried about hiring an attorney because of the potential cost, but at Berg Injury Lawyers, if you don’t win, you pay nothing. There’s also no cost or obligation to hire simply to speak with one of our lawyers. We call that our No Fee Guarantee®.
Contact Berg Injury Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a head-on collision, don’t wait to seek legal help. Acting quickly helps preserve crucial evidence for your case.
Contact Berg Injury Lawyers for a free consultation today. Our team is ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Call us now to get started.
