Getting into any car accident is a scary experience, but head-on crashes can be particularly frightening and dangerous. If you or a loved one has been involved in a head-on collision in Las Vegas, Nevada, you might feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next.
The legal team at J. Cogburn Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers is here to guide you through the process. With four decades of combined experience, our Las Vegas car accident lawyers know how to fight insurers and obtain the compensation our clients deserve.
For help, contact our law firm to schedule a free at 702-996-4786, no-obligation consultation.
How J. Cogburn Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help You After a Head-On Collision in Las Vegas
The aftermath of a head-on crash can be overwhelming, especially if you’re suffering from severe injuries. Luckily, you don’t have to deal with the legal complexities alone.
Here is what J. Cogburn Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers can do for you:
- Conduct thorough investigations to gather critical evidence
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Ensure that all legal documents are correctly filed and deadlines are met
- Consult experts to build a robust case
- Represent you aggressively in court if necessary
It’s during these challenging times that having a knowledgeable lawyer can really help. This article will walk you through head-on crashes, why they happen, what you should do if you’re in one, and how our Las Vegas personal injury lawyers can support you.
If you need assistance, call our Las Vegas, NV, law office for a free initial consultation.
What Is a Head-On Crash?
A head-on crash happens when two vehicles moving in opposite directions hit each other front-first. These accidents can occur on highways, city streets, or rural roads. The impact can be powerful because both vehicles move toward each other, which means the speed and force are combined at the moment of impact.
How Do Head-On Crashes Happen?
Head-on crashes, while catastrophic, are often preventable. They can occur due to a variety of reasons, most of which involve human error or external conditions affecting the driver’s ability to control the vehicle safely. Here are some common causes:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of head-on crashes. Distractions can come in many forms, such as texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or even talking to passengers.
When drivers divert their attention from the road, even for a moment, they can unknowingly drift into the opposite lane. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for about 5 seconds, which is enough time to drive the length of a football field at 55 mph—all while not looking at the road.
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol and drugs significantly impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Substances can slow reaction times, blur vision, and affect judgment, making it more likely for a driver to veer into oncoming traffic.
Alcohol-related impairment increases the risk of head-on collisions because it affects driving skills necessary for maintaining vehicle control and lane discipline.
Poor Weather Conditions
Adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain, fog, or snow, can greatly impair visibility and road traction. When drivers cannot see road markings or the vehicles ahead, they may unintentionally swerve into the opposing lane.
Additionally, slippery roads can make it difficult to stop in time to avoid a head-on collision. Weather conditions can cause reduced vehicle performance and increased braking times, both of which contribute to lane departure accidents.
Speeding
Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to navigate curves or respond to obstacles in time. It also makes it more difficult to control the vehicle’s trajectory. When a vehicle is traveling too fast, especially around bends or on slick roads, it can easily slide into oncoming traffic.
Speeding is a major factor in fatal crashes because it increases the force of impact, particularly in head-on collisions.
Common Injuries Sustained in Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions often result in severe injuries due to the high-speed impact and the significant force exerted on the vehicle and its occupants. Here are some common injuries that can occur in such accidents:
Whiplash
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden jolt, often occurring when the head is forcefully thrown forward and then back. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the neck.
Head and Brain Injuries
The sudden impact in a head-on collision can cause the head to hit the steering wheel, dashboard, or window, leading to concussions or other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries can have long-lasting effects, including memory problems, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The force of a head-on crash can damage the spinal cord, potentially leading to paralysis or other life-altering conditions. Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Broken Bones
Arms, legs, ribs, and facial bones are particularly vulnerable to fractures in a head-on collision. These injuries can result in long recovery times and may require surgery or immobilization.
Internal Injuries
The impact can also cause damage to internal organs, such as the lungs, liver, or spleen. Internal injuries can be life-threatening and may not be immediately apparent, making a prompt medical evaluation critical.
Chest Injuries
The force of a collision can cause blunt trauma to the chest, potentially resulting in broken ribs, collapsed lungs, or heart injuries. Chest injuries often require immediate medical attention to stabilize the victim.
What To Do If You’re Involved in a Head-on Crash
If you’re ever in a head-on crash, staying as calm and focused as possible is crucial. Follow these steps:
- Check for injuries
- Move to safety
- Call the police
- Exchange information
- Document the scene
- Seek medical attention
- Contact a lawyer
Remember, staying calm and following these steps can help ensure your safety and protect your rights in the aftermath of a head-on crash.
Contact Our Las Vegas Head-On Crash Attorneys For a Free Consultation
Head-on crashes can change lives in an instant. The physical and emotional toll can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. J. Cogburn Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help you navigate the legal challenges and work towards a brighter future.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a head-on collision in Las Vegas, don’t hesitate to reach out for the support you need. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let our Las Vegas car accident attorneys help you get the justice you deserve.
