A head-on collision occurs when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide. They are among the most common types of car accidents and also the most dangerous. Statistics show that head-on crashes accounted for 29.4 percent of collision-related deaths in 2021. Even when the individuals involved survive, they are more likely to suffer catastrophic injuries. These are injuries which are so serious that they cause long-lasting or permanent pain, disfigurement, or disability.

Let’s look at some of the most common injuries which result from head-on collisions. If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries because of another driver’s actions, you should seek legal advice from a car accident attorney. These wrecks typically don’t occur unless someone was negligent.

Types of Injuries Vehicular Accident Attorneys See in a Head-On Collision

In addition to the usual cuts and bruises associated with a car accident, more serious injuries are likely.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when outside forces disrupt the normal function of the brain. For example, a bump to the head or a jolt can cause brain damage. This contrasts with an acquired brain injury which can be due to an internal problem like a lack of oxygen. TBIs are common in car accidents that involve significant force. If the head strikes the windshield, steering wheel, asphalt or another surface, the brain can strike the skull. This can lead to bleeding, swelling, and bruising of the brain.

TBIs can range from mild concussions to permanent brain damage but all brain injuries are serious. In the most severe cases, victims die, end up in a coma or lose brain activity. Even less serious injuries can alter the way a victim thinks, moves, or talks. Surgery and rehab can improve the chances of recovery in some accident victims, but each case is unique. Some people have to live with the effects of the injury for the rest of their lives.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

The speed at which two vehicles collide in a head-on collision is equal to the combined speeds of the two vehicles. Drivers who cause head-on crashes are often distracted, speeding, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Some fall asleep at the wheel. This means the drivers involved often don’t have the time or the wherewithal to hit their brakes ahead of the crash. Since the human body can’t withstand a high-velocity impact, the injuries are catastrophic.

One of the most serious types of injuries is a spinal cord injury. Spinal injuries prevent the body and the brain from communicating properly. Sometimes, the signals which control movement and sensation get disrupted. This can lead to partial or total paralysis. The individual may not be able to feel or move parts of the body, especially the area below the point of injury. It’s impossible to cure a spinal cord injury but patients may improve with ongoing rehabilitation.

Other Types of Injuries

Extreme physical trauma is a common result of a head-on collision. A variety of injuries can result, including:

• Broken Bones: These can range from simple fractures that may heal with immobilization to complex ones requiring surgical intervention.
• Burns: These can occur from fires caused by the impact, contact with hot surfaces or fluids, or electrical burns from exposed wires.
• Internal Injuries: These injuries might not be immediately apparent but often require emergency medical attention. They include crushed organs and internal bleeding.
• Severe Lacerations: Sharp objects, broken glass, or metal fragments can cause deep cuts or lacerations during an accident. These injuries can lead to significant blood loss and may require stitches or surgical repair.

The injuries are worse if the victim gets thrown from their car or pinned inside the vehicle. Victims who get trapped may have to wait for hours before they are freed. Those who are tossed from their vehicles suffer a double impact. They get hurt during the crash itself and again when they hit the asphalt.

Contact an Alabama Accident Lawyer to Discuss Your Head-On Collision

Head-on collisions impact a victim’s life significantly. If you or a family member suffered injuries in a head-on collision, you need to talk to a car accident lawyer in Alabama. Accident victims shouldn’t have to handle their injuries all alone if someone else caused the crash. Getting a lawyer to fight on your behalf is often the only way to get the compensation you deserve. Your medical bills may be huge, and you will have to take time off work. Some victims are never able to work again, and they become dependent on others.

You may be able to get compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. The other driver’s insurance company will try to pay you as little as possible and you need to fight back. If you want to get the justice to which you’re entitled, call the experienced attorneys at The Vance Law Firm today. Your first consultation is free. If you decide to hire us, you don’t pay until we secure damages on your behalf.