Head-on collisions are notably among the most alarming types of vehicular accidents, well-known for their catastrophic effects. When vehicles collide directly from the front, the substantial force generated leads to various head on collision common injuries. These injuries can drastically transform lives. Appreciating the extent of these injuries transcends the realm of statistics; it’s about understanding the personal narratives entwined with each event. Behind every figure is an individual whose existence has been deeply altered.
The phrase “head on collision common injuries” conjures up images of emergency rooms bustling with activity as doctors rush to attend to incoming patients. It’s not just broken bones or cuts; we’re talking about deep-seated traumas like traumatic brain injury (TBI), which accounts for 18.7% of all brain-injury related deaths, according to CDC reports.
Table Of Contents:
- Common Injuries Resulting From Head-on Collisions
- Causes of Head-On Collisions in Baltimore, Maryland
- What to Do Immediately After a Head-On Collision
- Protecting Your Legal Rights After a Head-On Collision
- Compensation for Damages After a Head-On Collision
- FAQs in Relation to Head on Collision Common Injuries
- Conclusion
Common Injuries Resulting From Head-on Collisions
Head-on collisions are some of the most devastating types of car accidents. The force of two vehicles slamming into each other can cause catastrophic injuries, even at relatively low speeds.
Some of the most common injuries from head-on collisions include:
Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
The most common and most significant injury that can occur as a result of a head on collision is a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Some TBIs are more serious than others and can result in significant injuries from concussions to extensive lacerations on the cerebral cortex (the outer layer that covers the cerebrum).
Depending on the seriousness of the head injury, symptoms may include:
- Problems with memory and/or concentration
- Loss of coordination and balance
- Compromised motor or speech impediments
- Weakness or numbness in fingers and toes
- Changes in the ability to smell
- Sensitivity to light or sound
Spinal cord injuries
In the case of a head on collision, severe whiplash can also cause damage to the brain as it shifts back and forth into the skull at the point of impact, causing lacerations on the brain tissue.
Internal organ damage
The blunt force during a head-on collision may be enough to cause bruising or other damage to your internal organs. Broken bones can cause organ damage as well.
When drivers or passengers are thrown around in a head-on collision, they frequently suffer chest injuries, including broken ribs, which can puncture lungs or other nearby organs.
Facial and dental damage
In a head-on collision, the sudden impact may cause you to hit your head on the steering wheel, the dashboard, or even the windshield. Even if your head hits nothing, the movement of the brain inside the skull in a violent impact can cause a severe concussion.
Broken bones and soft tissue injuries
In a head-on collision, it’s common for victims to suffer serious injuries, even if they are wearing their seatbelt. For the driver and front passengers especially, severe injuries to the legs are also possible as a result of a head-on collision.
Severe bruising, ligament damage and scarring may occur as well. All these injuries happen because of the extreme force exerted on your body during the crash.
Causes of Head-On Collisions in Baltimore, Maryland
There are many reasons why a head on collision may occur. If a person is driving while distracted or impaired, they may find themself on the wrong side of the road and in the direct path of an oncoming vehicle.
Some collisions occur because of confusing road construction or improperly placed signage. Other common causes of head-on collisions include:
Distracted driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of head-on collisions. When a driver takes their eyes off the road, even for a split second, they can easily drift into oncoming traffic.
Reckless driving
Reckless driving behaviors like speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and passing on a double yellow line can all lead to a devastating head-on collision.
Driving under the influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to control their vehicle. This significantly increases the risk of a head-on collision.
Poor weather conditions
Driving in the rain, snow, or ice can make it difficult for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles. Slick roads and poor visibility can easily lead to a head-on crash.
What to Do Immediately After a Head-On Collision
The first thing you should do is seek medical treatment. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.
Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. The sooner you get medical help, the better your chances of making a full recovery.
Check for injuries and call 911
If you’re able, check on the other people involved in the accident and call 911. Give the dispatcher your location and let them know if anyone appears to be seriously injured. For accident victims that have head injuries or blood loss after a car crash it can be difficult to call 911. We often rely on body worn camera footage to locate witness statements and determine if any witnesses called 911 after an auto accident.
Gather evidence at the scene
When possible, you or someone you know should start gathering information. Document the scene and collect records of your medical treatment.
Take photos of the damage to both vehicles, get the contact and insurance information for the other driver, and get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
Seek medical attention
Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible after a head-on collision. Some injuries, like concussions and whiplash, may not be immediately apparent.
Contact a car accident attorney
Then, hire a car accident attorney. Gathering all this info is like piecing together a puzzle for them; it’s how they start building a strong case just for you.
An experienced car accident lawyer will know how to deal with the insurance companies and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Protecting Your Legal Rights After a Head-On Collision
If you’ve been involved in a head-on collision, it’s important to take steps to protect your legal rights. The first step is to seek medical treatment for your injuries.
Seek medical treatment
Especially in the case of people who experience severe bodily injury and/or traumatic brain injuries as a result of head on collisions, it’s important to know their rights.
Document your injuries and expenses
Stay on top of your health game by jotting down every doctor’s visit, treatment plan, and bill that comes your way. If you’re thinking about going ahead with a personal injury claim, this information could really make or break your case.
Avoid admitting fault
Even if you think you may have been partially at fault for the accident, avoid admitting fault to the other driver or the insurance company. Leave the legal stuff to your lawyer; they know exactly what to do.
Contact an experienced car accident lawyer
This is why it is so important to work with an experienced head on collision accident attorney if you or a loved one are injured in a head on collision. Getting a lawyer on your side can make all the difference when figuring out who’s to blame for your accident and ensuring you get paid what you’re owed for any injuries.
Compensation for Damages After a Head-On Collision
If you’ve been injured in a head-on collision, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. These damages can include:
Medical expenses
You might just be able to get back what you spent on your medical care, which covers everything from your stay in the hospital and surgeries to the meds you needed and even your journey through rehab.
Lost wages and income
If your injuries have prevented you from working, you may be able to recover your lost wages and future lost income.
Pain and suffering
It’s possible you might get compensation for both the physical pain and emotional turmoil that accident threw your way.
Loss of quality of life
If your injuries have had a significant impact on your ability to enjoy life, you may be able to recover damages for loss of quality of life.
If you or a loved one have suffered any of these common injuries in a head on collision, it’s a good idea to contact a personal injury attorney who can help you understand your rights, and arrange a settlement or insurance payment that minimizes hassle and maximizes your ability to recover.
FAQs in Relation to Head on Collision Common Injuries
What is the most common injury from a head-on collision?
Traumatic brain injuries are the most common, often resulting from sudden, violent jolts to the skull.
What happens to your body after a head-on collision?
Your body experiences forceful impacts, potentially causing multiple types of injuries or trauma simultaneously.
What are the after effects of a head-on collision?
The aftermath can include pain, confusion, and sometimes long-term disabilities. Healing requires time and patience.
What is the main cause of death in a head-on collision?
Death in these accidents is usually caused by critical organ damage or severe brain injury.
Conclusion
In wrapping up our journey through understanding head on collision common injuries, it’s clear that these aren’t mere accidents but life-changing events with far-reaching impacts. From spinal cord damages whispering tales of resilience in rehabilitation centers to facial reconstructions narrating survival stories – each injury carries a narrative beyond its medical diagnosis.
Diving into this topic, we’ve seen the quiet struggles survivors face and it’s clear as day—we need to step up our game in spreading awareness and taking steps to prevent such heart-wrenching events on our roads. Remembering those who navigate this tough path reminds us of both human fragility and indomitable spirit—because at heart, recovering from a head-on collision is less about overcoming physical hurdles than reassembling shattered lives piece by piece.
