Head On Collision Injuries - What You Need To Know

Head-on collisions are one of the deadliest types of accidents due to the car’s energy being absorbed by the other vehicle. Unlike fender benders or sideswipe accidents, head-on collisions often result in severe injuries or even fatalities, despite the presence of safety features such as airbags and seatbelts. Florida’s roads witness tens of thousands of drivers daily, making traffic accidents almost inevitable. In fact, in 2019, more than 400,000 traffic crashes occurred in the state of Florida alone. The cost of medical care for injuries sustained in such accidents can be exorbitant. Seeking the services of a Florida car accident lawyer can help victims recover damages to offset these costs. 

Common Injuries Sustained In Head-On Collisions

In comparison to other car accidents, head-on collision injuries tend to be much more serious. When two vehicles are heading toward each other at high speeds, the impact will involve significantly more force, resulting in a greater number of injuries for drivers and passengers alike. In addition to common body injuries, head injuries are also common in head-on collisions. 

Bruises, Lacerations, & Broken Bones

When head-on collisions occur, victims may sustain injuries such as broken bones and lacerations. The impact of the crash can cause severe leg injuries, especially for the driver and front passenger. Additionally, victims may experience severe bruising due to the immense force exerted on their bodies during the collision. Even if the victim was wearing a seat belt properly, they could suffer internal bruising and organ damage due to the seat belt tightening during the crash. 

Internal Injuries - Organ Damage

The force of a head-on collision can cause internal organ damage, resulting in bruising or other injuries. Organ damage can also occur from broken bones. Furthermore, when drivers or passengers are jolted around during a head-on collision, they are prone to chest injuries, such as broken ribs that can puncture nearby organs, including the lungs and heart. 

Injuries From Double Impact

In some cases, victims of head-on collisions may experience a double impact as they suffered trauma during the crash and again when they hit the ground after being thrown from a vehicle. However, wearing a seat belt significantly reduces the risk of a double impact and subsequent secondary injuries. 

Concussions

Head-on collisions often result in concussions, which are among the most frequently sustained head injuries. When an accident occurs, the sudden impact may cause your head to hit the steering wheel, dashboard, or even the windshield. Even if you believe that you only suffered whiplash, the forceful back-and-forth movement of your head can cause a concussion. 

The severity of a concussion varies based on the strength of the impact. Mild grade 1 concussions are generally short-term and do not lead to loss of consciousness. Conversely, a more severe grade 3 concussion may result in lasting brain damage. 

Despite the presence of symptoms such as headaches, a person may overlook or disregard a concussion. Confusion and memory loss are especially easy to overlook, and additional common symptoms include:

• Blurry vision

• Dizziness

• Difficulty Concentrating

• Nausea

• Sleeping problems

It is not unusual for symptoms to emerge several days after the concussion happened, emphasizing the significance of seeking immediate medical treatment for head injuries. 

Other Head Injuries

Car accidents are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The CDC reports that car accidents are responsible for 18.7% of all brain injury-related fatalities. Head-on injuries are particularly alarming because they may not immediately present symptoms, and conditions like post concussions syndrome can take time to diagnose after a car accident. 

Head injuries can also result in permanent effects. Even if a person sustains only minor physical injuries in a head-on collision, they may still have a severe head injury. For instance, a coup contrecoup brain injury happens when external trauma and the brain’s own movement within the skull lead to bleeding on both sides of the brain. 

What Do I Do After A Head-On Collision?

After a head-on collision, seeking medical care should be your first priority. If feasible, either you or someone you know should begin collecting information. This includes documenting the scene and keeping records of your medical treatment. Subsequently, it’s important to retain the services of a Florida car accident attorney. The information you have collected can be used by your attorney to construct your case. 

Obtaining Compensation For Head-On Injuries - Is It Possible?

It is possible to receive compensation following a car accident in Florida. Typically, severe head-on collisions do not happen unless one or both drivers acted negligently in some way. As a result, you may be able to recover damages or a settlement from the insurance company. The extent and severity of your injuries will determine if you’re entitled to compensation for:

• Past and future medical bills

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional distress

• Past and future lost wages

• Reduced capacity to earn wages

• Disability

The exact amount of damages awarded may differ from case to case. A Florida car accident attorney will evaluate your situation and advise you on the potential value of your case. 

Should I Hire A Florida Car Accident Attorney?

It is recommended to hire an attorney even if you believe your injuries are not severe. Employing an attorney is the best approach to ensure that you receive the proper compensation for your injuries. Insurance firms can be challenging to negotiate with, and they may not provide a reasonable settlement. Things get even more complex if the other party does not have insurance. Our lawyers can assist you in constructing a strong case to increase your recovery, regardless of the circumstances.