All road traffic collisions have the potential to cause severe injuries. However, few accident types are more dangerous than head-on collisions. Head-on collisions cause over 3,000 deaths every year in the U.S. on average.
Head-on collisions occur when two vehicles approaching in opposite directions collide. What causes head-on collisions and why are they so dangerous?
Combined speeds
What makes head-on collisions so dangerous is the combined speed of colliding vehicles. If a vehicle traveling at 40mph hits a stationary vehicle, then the force of the impact largely comes from the moving vehicle. In a head-on collision, two vehicles colliding at 40mph in opposite directions means the combined speed is 80mph. This results in a much greater impact and usually more severe injuries.
How do head-on collisions happen?
There are several common causes of head-on collisions. One of the most common causes is distracted driving. For example, if a driver is looking at their phone, they take their eyes off the road. This means that they could stray over the center line and into the oncoming lane.
Head-on collisions also occur when an inappropriate overtaking maneuver has been performed. It is vital that drivers only overtake in designated areas and that they do so safely. Failing to check properly for oncoming vehicles could result in head-on collisions.
Fatigued and intoxicated drivers also present a significant risk of causing head-on collisions. If you have been injured in an accident that resulted from negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Seeking legal guidance will give you a better idea of where you stand.