Are Head-On Collisions More Dangerous Than Other Types of Traffic Accidents?
Just last month, another person died in a head-on collision in the central California Valley area. KFSN in Fresno reported on a crash with a big rig that resulted in the death of a man in Mendota. A man was driving on Highway 33 at Bass Avenue when he veered and slammed head-on into a large truck. The collision took the man’s life. Police continue to investigate, but the cause of the accident is unknown.
What Is A Head-On Collision?
A head-on collision occurs when the front end of one vehicle slams into the front end of another vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. This type of collision often results in severe injuries or fatality. Because of the high rate of fatalities, head-on collisions are one of the most dangerous types of traffic accidents, especially for occupants of smaller vehicles hit by larger vehicles (i.e. small car hit by a large truck or motorcycle hit by an SUV).
What Makes A Head-On Collision So Dangerous And Deadly?
One of the reasons a head-on collision is so deadly and dangerous is the sudden impact. When two vehicles are traveling toward each other, especially at a high rate of speed, and the vehicles violently slam into each other, the vehicles come to an immediate stop. It is like running into a concrete wall. There is no absorption of the impact force from the collision. The damage to the vehicle is severe. If the occupant is not thrown from the vehicle, it is common for him or her to be crushed.
Common Causes of Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common reasons are:
- Speeding, especially around a curve
- Distracted driving (i.e. texting, reading, grooming, eating, cell phone, etc.)
- Incorrectly passing on a two-lane road
- Traveling the wrong way
- Crossing the center line into oncoming traffic
- Incorrectly reading or not seeing road signs (i.e. one-way signs)
- Drifting into traffic from falling asleep at the wheel or being drowsy/fatigued
- Driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
- Inexperienced drivers
Regardless of the reason for the head-on collision, the fact remains that this type of traffic accident is deadly and dangerous.
Have You Been Injured Or Lost A Loved One In A Head-On Collision?
A traffic accident can turn your life upside down in a matter of seconds. You are physically injured and emotionally distraught. You are worried about paying bills and being out of work. We understand. Our Fresno personal injury attorneys take most traffic accident cases on a contingency basis — we don’t get paid until you get paid. Our main concern is protecting your right to a fair and full settlement for your injuries. If you have lost a loved one, we want to help you seek justice for yourself, your family, and your loved one.
Have you been injured in a Fresno, CA or Central California Valley car accident? If so, call Torem & Associates at (888) 500-5000. You may also chat with a representative online or use our convenient online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
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