In September, an accident occurred near Spokane that injured one driver and killed another. The accident occurred when one motorist who was headed westbound crossed into oncoming traffic, struck a second car, and then collided with a log truck. Even though the log truck driver attempted to avoid the accident, the driver was unable to do so. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported and the two other drivers who were involved in the accident fully cooperated with law enforcement. As a result of the accident, the road on which the accident occurred was reduced to one lane. The exact cause of the head-on collision still remains uncertain.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) considers head-on accidents to include any type of vehicular accident in which one vehicle's front end collides with a second vehicle's front end while the vehicles are headed in opposite directions. Head-on collisions can result in substantial injuries and fatalities. While head-on collisions comprise 2% of traffic accidents, these accidents represent 10%of traffic accident involving fatalities in the country.

Common Causes of Head-on Collisions

There are many ways in which head-on collisions can to occur, but some of the most common reasons include:

• Adverse conditions, most often ice and rain.
• Dangerous hazards on the road including potholes and other obstacles that cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles.
• Distracted drivers who are most often using cell phones to text.
• Drivers who are fatigued or even fall asleep while operating a vehicle.
• Drivers who are unfamiliar with the area in which they are traveling.
• Drivers who fail to obey posted traffic signs.
• Drivers who operate vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Drivers who try to pass other vehicles in no passing zones.
• Poorly designated construction areas.
• Vehicles that are traveling on rural, two-lane, undivided roads.

Common Injuries Caused by Head-on Collisions

There are several common types of injuries that are experienced by individuals who are involved in head-on collisions. Some of the most typical injuries include:

• Abdominal trauma.
• Amputations.
• Broken bones and compound fractures.
• Cervical disc injuries.
• Chest trauma.
• Paralysis.
• Punctured lungs.
• Traumatic brain injuries.

Contact a Washington Car Accident Attorney

Head-on collisions can result in motor vehicle operators and passengers facing serious injuries. In some cases, fatalities are also known to occur. If you or a loved one has been harmed in a motorcycle accident, contact a seasoned car accident lawyer. To obtain compensation, the victim of a head-on collision is required to prove that the other party was responsible for the accident before compensation will be awarded. From start to finish, West Law Office will zealously advocate to make sure that your case resolves in the best possible. Consider contacting our law office today by calling (509) 993-0748 or you can also complete our quick and convenient online form.

(image courtesy of Dayne Topkin)