In 2023, there were 42 head-on collisions in Orleans Parish. Though less common than other crash types, these collisions are some of the most devastating crashes we see here in New Orleans. They often leave victims with life-changing injuries and families with overwhelming emotional and financial burdens. Dudley DeBosier is here to help victims of head-on collisions and their families seek justice and fair compensation.
Understanding Head-On Collisions and Their Impact
A head-on collision involves two vehicles traveling in opposite directions colliding front-to-front. What makes these crashes especially dangerous is the force of impact. These collisions often happen at high speeds with no time to react, so the injuries are frequently catastrophic or fatal.
Causes of Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are almost always avoidable, which means they are almost always the result of negligent or reckless behavior, such as:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, phone use, or other distractions can lead a driver to not notice they are veering into oncoming traffic.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drug use impair judgment, fine motor skills, alertness, and vision, all of which increase the risk of crossing into another lane.
- Wrong-Way Driving: Entering a roadway against the flow of traffic is often because of confusion, distraction, or impairment.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Head-On Collisions
Victims of head-on collisions often suffer serious, disabling injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal injuries and organ damage
High Risks and Long-Term Impacts
Injuries from head-on collisions can require extensive medical care and rehabilitation that many victims can’t afford out-of-pocket. Victims of this type of crash are also often unable to return to work while recovering from their injuries.
Because of the serious nature of most head-on collision injuries, victims experience a broad spectrum of challenges such as physical pain, emotional distress, and financial hardship. Many victims face years of recovery or permanent disability, significantly diminishing their quality of life and financial independence.
Why You Need a Lawyer After a Head-On Collision
As we mentioned, head-on collision cases often involve severe injuries and complex legal issues. An experienced lawyer can ensure your case is handled efficiently and strategically, giving you and your family the best chance to secure fair compensation to cover all your losses resulting from the crash.
A skilled lawyer will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into the crash
- Gather and preserve evidence, such as accident reports and eyewitness accounts
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies to seek a best settlement
Seeking Compensation After a Head-On Collision
In addition to handling the investigation, your lawyer will also fight to recover special damages, which cover measurable financial losses like current and future medical expenses, rehabilitation, and lost earning capacity. Additionally, they may pursue general damages for intangible impacts, such as the pain, suffering, and emotional toll caused by the collision.
Steps to Take After a Head-On Collision
- Seek Immediate Medical Care
Even if your injuries initially seem minor, you must seek medical attention right away. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or brain trauma, may not show immediate symptoms. Seeking medical care will protect your health and provide important records for your legal case. - Document the Accident
If you can do so safely, photograph the accident scene and collect witness statements. These details can strengthen your case. - Report the Accident
Notify law enforcement and be sure that an official report is filed. This document serves as key evidence in an accident claim. - Contact a Lawyer Early
Reach out to a head-on collision lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and start building a strong case.
Proving Liability in Head-On Collision Cases
Proving liability in a head-on collision case is often complex. It’s not so cut and dry as many people assume, because there are multiple aspects and often multiple parties to consider when proving fault. An experienced New Orleans car accident lawyer will do the following to establish liability in your case:
- Investigate the Cause of the Accident: Determining liability involves examining road conditions, considering driver behavior, and other factors. Eyewitness accounts and accident reports are often critical in this process.
- Establish Negligence or Reckless Behavior: Proving fault may require demonstrating the other driver’s negligence, such as providing evidence that they were driving under the influence, speeding, or making illegal maneuvers.
- Work with Experts: Accident reconstruction experts can provide detailed analyses to show what caused the collision. Their findings often play a major role in the more complex cases.
Why Choose Dudley DeBosier for Your Head-On Collision Case
The team at Dudley DeBosier has extensive experience handling severe head-on collision cases. Our attorneys understand the unique challenges these cases present and are well-equipped to handle them effectively. We do so by prioritizing your needs, offering personalized attention, and keeping you informed at every step of the process. While past results cannot guarantee future outcomes, our proven track record and client testimonials demonstrate our commitment to achieving positive results for our clients.
Contact Our New Orleans Head-On Collision Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a head-on collision, Dudley DeBosier is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case, and learn how we can assist you in pursuing justice and compensation.
