Head On Collision Attorneys in Little Rock
Head-on collisions are not as common as other types of motor vehicle accidents, but when they happen, they can result in some of the most serious and catastrophic injuries. Head-on crashes usually occur when two vehicles are traveling in opposite directions, and one (or both) of them crosses the center of the road, resulting in a collision. These crashes can also happen when a vehicle gets turned around and finds itself facing oncoming traffic, or when someone intentionally or inadvertently enters a one-way road going the wrong way.
Injuries from head-on auto wrecks can take a major toll on those involved. Medical costs can exceed six or even seven figures, and injury victims typically face a long road to recovery. The mounting medical bills combined with time missed from work can result in a financial hardship, which is made even worse when the victim has a debilitating injury and is unable to return to work at all. If you or a loved one was injured in a head-on collision, you may have the right to compensation. Before accepting a settlement offer from an insurance company, it is best to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer to go over your rights and legal options.
At the Paul Byrd Law Firm, we have over three decades of experience representing those injured in head-on collisions and other types of auto accidents in Arkansas. Our attorneys have in-depth knowledge of personal injury law, and we have a successful track record with even the most complex cases. We routinely go up against well-funded adversaries such as large insurance companies, and we fight hard to obtain compensation on behalf of each client we serve.
Common Causes for Head-On Collisions
In recent years, Arkansas has invested millions of dollars to install barriers along hundreds of miles of roadway throughout the state. Today, many urban and suburban roads have some type of median to help prevent head-on crashes. However, there are still countless miles of undivided roadways, especially in the rural areas, where head-on wrecks can still occur.
Some of the most common reasons head-on collisions occur include:
- Reckless/careless driving: Many head-on crashes are the result of reckless or careless actions on the part of motorists. Examples include excessive speeding, weaving in and out of lanes, making sharp turns, refusing to yield the right of way, and playing “chicken”.
- Failed passing maneuvers: When someone is driving on an undivided two-lane road, they must enter the oncoming traffic lane to pass another vehicle. This, of course, is a risky move that must be done with caution. When a motorist takes an unnecessary chance by trying to pass a vehicle without enough space, it can result in disastrous consequences.
- Fatigued/drowsy driving: Driving while drowsy or fatigued is especially common among truck drivers and others who drive for a living and spend many consecutive hours on the road. When a driver is tired and close to falling asleep, there is a danger of weaving into oncoming traffic.
- Chemical impairment: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can alter a motorist’s mindset and make it more likely that they will be in a head-on wreck. Some chemically-impaired drivers get tired and sleepy, while others drive recklessly.
- Wrong way driving: Driving the wrong way down a one-way street or freeway entrance ramp is another way people sometimes end up in a head-on crash. This is usually unintentional, although someone who is intoxicated or otherwise in a reckless state of mind may do this intentionally. Wrong-way driving generally happens at night when it is more difficult to see the road signs.
- Distracted driving: These days, it seems that many people cannot stay off of their phones when they are behind the wheel. Texting while driving and similar forms of electronic activity take a motorist’s eyes and mind off the road, which sometimes causes them to swerve into oncoming traffic and collide with a vehicle going the opposite direction.
Damages in Head-On Crash Injury Cases
Head-on collisions often occur at a high impact, with the strong potential for severe injuries and fatalities. Injuries frequently suffered by those involved in these types of crashes include:
- Scrapes, cuts and bruises;
- Fractures/broken bones;
- Head and traumatic brain injuries (TBI);
- Neck and back injuries;
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis;
- Whiplash and other soft-tissue injuries;
- Burn injuries;
- Amputations/loss of limbs;
- Blunt force trauma;
- Wrongful death.
Speak with an Arkansas Auto Accident Attorney
At the Paul Byrd Law Firm, we understand the major physical, emotional, and financial trauma head-on collisions cause for victims and their families, and our goal is to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We handle all the complicated legal tasks, so you can focus on your recovery. Along the way, we provide frequent updates on the progress of your case, so you are always kept informed. To schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced Arkansas personal injury lawyers, call our office today at 1-501-420-3050. You may also send us a message through our online contact form.
We take all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay attorney fees if we win your case.