Head-on Collisions

Head-on collisions are relatively rare compared to other types of accidents, but they can have especially catastrophic consequences. They happen when two vehicles strike each other while driving opposite directions, or when one vehicle crashes into an object such as a stop sign. Some of the reasons that head-on collisions occur include brake failure, distracted driving, drunk driving, tire blowouts, or loss of control. In many cases, the victim will suffer serious injuries and may not be able to work for an extended period. He or she may need to recover substantial compensation for the crash. If you have been involved in a car accident near the Ocala area, the attorneys at the Dean Law Firm can help decide whether you have a claim.

A head-on crash is often the result of careless behavior by one or more motorists. A victim hoping to recover compensation will have to show that the defendant breached a duty to exercise reasonable care and caused the accident and the resulting damages because of the breach. To succeed in these negligence claims, it is essential to prove that the driver responsible for the crash did not operate his or her vehicle as a reasonable person would have behaved behind the wheel in similar circumstances. Some actions that are likely to be considered negligent include falling asleep behind the wheel, failing to yield at an intersection, texting while driving, or driving while intoxicated.

In some cases, both drivers in a head-on collision may have failed to use the appropriate level of care. Florida follows the rule of comparative negligence. This means that a jury will evaluate each person’s degree of fault and assign a percentage of responsibility accordingly. Any damages awarded will be reduced by the victim’s proportion of fault. Even if the person bringing a lawsuit was substantially responsible for the collision, he or she still may receive compensation for the remainder of the costs associated with it.

Head-on collisions can result in devastating injuries, sometimes extending to brain trauma, paralysis, whiplash, burns, and broken bones. Often, one or more people involved will need many years or even a lifetime of treatment and assistance. The injuries may be so severe that a job change is necessary. A successful victim may be able to recover past and future medical bills, past and future lost income, property damage, rehabilitation expenses, the cost of household services, loss of enjoyment, and pain and suffering. You have four years from the accident to bring a personal injury lawsuit, or your right to receive compensation likely will be considered waived.

If a loved one dies as a result of a head-on collision, his or her surviving family members can sue for wrongful death. In Florida, a decedent's relatives must file this type of claim within two years.

The medical and financial impact of a head-on collision is likely to be substantial. Nevertheless, insurers often will do whatever they can to hinder a claim in an effort to avoid making payments. Before this happens, it is important to consult an experienced auto crash attorney to determine whether you have a valid claim. The Ocala lawyers at the Dean Law Firm can negotiate for a settlement on your behalf and, if necessary, take the responsible parties to court. Call us at 352-387-8700 or contact us via our online form. We represent injured individuals in Crystal River, The Villages, and throughout Marion, Sumter, Lake, Citrus, and Levy Counties.