A car head-on collision is one of the most devastating types of traffic accidents. In a split second, a wrong-way driver or a motorist who veers out of their lane can cause life-altering injuries. The force of two vehicles colliding front-to-front often results in broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and even fatalities. In Fort Lauderdale, where high-traffic roads intersect with distracted and aggressive driving, these crashes are all too common.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a head-on collision, you may be wondering if you can sue for your losses. This blog will help you understand your legal rights, how liability is determined, and how a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer can help you file a compensation claim. We will also define what a head-on collision is, discuss the leading causes, and outline your next steps.
What Is a Head-On Collision?
A head-on collision occurs when the front ends of two vehicles crash into each other while traveling in opposite directions. These accidents typically happen when one vehicle crosses the center line or enters the wrong lane, either due to driver error, impairment, or distraction.
You may hear the phrase what is a head-on collision and think it is just another car accident. However, the physics of two moving vehicles colliding head-on makes this type of crash far more dangerous than most. The energy from both vehicles combines at the point of impact, leading to more severe damage and injuries.
What Is the Leading Cause of Head-On Collisions?
Several driving behaviors can lead to a head-on crash, but the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, using a GPS, or any activity that takes a driver’s attention off the road can result in crossing into oncoming traffic.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction time, increasing the risk of drifting into another lane.
- Fatigued Driving: Tired drivers may fall asleep or lose control of the vehicle.
- Improper Passing: Attempting to overtake another vehicle on a two-lane road without sufficient visibility.
- Wrong-Way Driving: Often due to confusion or intoxication, this type of error leads to high-speed, head-on impacts.
Understanding what the leading cause of head-on collisions is can help victims recognize negligence and prepare for legal action.
Can You Sue After a Head-On Collision in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, if another driver’s negligence caused the crash, you are entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit. In Florida, all drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and follow traffic laws. When a driver breaches that duty and causes harm, they can be held liable for damages.
A car accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale can help you gather the necessary evidence to prove fault. This includes police reports, dashcam footage, witness statements, and medical records. If successful, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term rehabilitation or disability
In extreme cases involving reckless conduct or DUI, you may also be eligible for punitive damages.
How a Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Sue
Filing a personal injury lawsuit is not just about submitting paperwork. A skilled Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer plays a critical role in the outcome of your case. Here is how they can help:
- Investigate the accident and determine liability
- Collect and preserve evidence to build a compelling case
- Calculate the full extent of your damages, including future medical needs
- Handle communication with insurance companies to prevent lowball offers
- Represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato has a long-standing reputation for securing favorable outcomes for victims of serious car crashes in South Florida. We understand the tactics insurance companies use and will fight to ensure you are not taken advantage of.
What to Do After a Head-On Crash
If you have been in a head-on collision, it is important to act quickly. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Call 911 and seek emergency medical attention
- File an official police report
- Avoid speaking to the other driver’s insurance company
- Document all injuries, expenses, and conversations
- Consult a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible
Delaying action can hurt your chances of receiving fair compensation, especially if critical evidence is lost.
Injured in a Head-On Collision? Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato Can Help You
A head-on collision can leave you with overwhelming injuries, mounting medical bills, and emotional trauma. At Wolf & Pravato, we help victims take legal action and reclaim their lives. Our firm has recovered millions for injured clients, including a $3.85 million settlement, and we are ready to fight for you.
We offer free case evaluations and work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win. Let our experience and commitment work in your favor.
Call (844) 643-7200 now to schedule your free consultation.
FAQs
- What is a head-on collision?
A head-on collision occurs when two vehicles crash into each other front-to-front while moving in opposite directions. - Can I sue if I was injured in a head-on collision in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, if the other driver was negligent, you can file a personal injury claim for damages. - What is the leading cause of head-on collisions?
Distracted and impaired driving are the leading causes of head-on crashes. - What damages can I recover after a head-on collision?
You may be eligible for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. - How much does a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer cost?
Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato charges no upfront fees and only gets paid if your case is successful.
