Head-on collisions are one of the most dangerous types of car accidents. Even though these types of accidents are only 2% of all accidents, they accounted for 58% of all vehicle fatalities in 2020.
With two vehicles traveling at even a low speed colliding head-on, the full force of both vehicles doubles the impact of the crash. The head-on impact is similar to hitting a brick wall. For two vehicles traveling at 55 mph, the impact on both cars is now 110 mph. That intensifies the damage to both vehicles and anyone inside.
Flying debris and shrapnel can cause injuries to people inside the vehicle as well as outside of the vehicle.
The cars can also roll over during the crash and collide with other vehicles or anything else in the vicinity. Head-on collisions can also lead to larger car accidents, such as multi-car collisions (also called “pile-ups”) or ones involving tandem collisions (also called “chain reaction” accidents.)
As you can see, head-on collisions are some of the deadliest and most dangerous accidents and can involve more than just two drivers.
Head-On Collision Aftermath
The high force of the head-on collision makes it the most dangerous accident to have for several reasons:
- Because of the high speed and force, everyone in both cars has an increased risk of fatality.
- Injuries are more severe in those who survive the impact
- Survivors are also more susceptible to psychological trauma, such as PTSD, depression, and/or anxiety
- The head-on collision can cause significant damage to one or more cars involved; one, both, or more may be destroyed and beyond repair
- An increased risk of fire from a ruptured fuel tank
- Even with improvements in safety features, there isn’t enough protection for the driver from the impact, since the impact gets absorbed by the engine, the hood, and other parts of the vehicle.
- Secondary accidents with additional cars driving at high speeds and unable to avoid the original head-on collision
- Longer emergency response time due to the larger response team, including police, fire/rescue, and ambulances which can lead to considerable traffic backups and delayed response time for other emergencies in the area
Because of these, head-on collisions are the worst type of car accident.
Injuries from a Head-On Collision
The severity of an accident victim’s injuries varies depending on several factors. This includes the speed and angle of the crash, the size and weight of the vehicles involved, and the use (or failure to use) of safety equipment such as airbags and seatbelts. In addition to broken bones, bruises, and lacerations, accident victims will also have:
- Head injuries, including traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord injury, including paralysis
- Internal organ damage
One consequence of not using seatbelts is the possibility of a driver or passenger getting ejected from the vehicle in a head-on collision. The victim will likely have to go through the shattered glass in order to exit the vehicle. Once through the glass, the victim will likely have a hard landing on the pavement or another vehicle.
Houston Auto Accident And Personal Injury Attorney
Contact Paxton Law Firm today at 281-978-2244, and we’ll review your case and advise you of your possible compensation claim. The Paxton Law Firm and attorneys Richard Paxton and Michael Mendoza believe in taking on your legal battles and turning a negative situation into your best possible outcome. We offer free consultations, and you do not pay our fees until we recover for you. For Espanol INICIO and CONTÁCTENOS EN
