Monmouth County Head-on Accident Lawyers

Advising Injured Clients in Middletown, Holmdel, Red Bank, Monmouth and Ocean County, New Jersey

Head-on collisions are not the most common type of crash, but when they happen, they are often the most destructive and deadly. With two vehicles colliding head-on, the speed of both vehicles moving in opposite directions is added together to the force of impact. This causes more serious injuries and higher mortality rates.

If you have been involved in this type of crash, you need to contact a personal injury lawyer right away. You may have options to recoup your medical expenses, and other expenses, if you reach out to the right attorney and make sure to take action to preserve your rights in this case. Consult with a knowledgeable accident lawyer at Chamlin, Uliano, & Walsh, before agreeing to any settlements or accepting liability. An experienced attorney at our firm in Monmouth County, New Jersey, can help you with preparing and presenting your personal injury claim for just compensation. Call our West Long Branch office at (732) 440-3950 for a free consultation today.

Understanding the Mechanics of a Head-on Accident in NJ

First, let’s define a head-on collision. It’s when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide front-end to front-end. The vehicles are moving towards each other and collide directly in a head-on manner. Head-on accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities because the impact forces are concentrated on the front of the vehicles involved. The high speeds at which vehicles typically travel on roads increase the likelihood of serious consequences in such collisions.

To mitigate the risk of head-on accidents, governments put in place road safety measures such as the installation of centerline barriers or dividers on highways, proper signage, and enforcing traffic rules and regulations. Drivers can help reduce the likelihood of head-on collisions by using defensive driving practices such as staying alert, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, and obeying traffic laws.

Factors Causing Head-on Accidents

One of the common causes of head-on collisions is driver error, meaning distracted driving, fatigue, aggressive driving, or reckless behavior such as speeding and tailgating. These factors can lead to drivers inadvertently crossing the centerline or driving in the wrong lane, resulting in a head-on collision. Another common cause is operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications impairs judgment, reflexes, and coordination, which makes it more likely for drivers to veer into oncoming traffic.

Drivers making mistakes in overtaking or passing also causes accidents. Misjudging the distance and speed of oncoming vehicles while attempting to overtake or pass another vehicle can result in head-on collisions. Illegal passing maneuvers in no-passing zones or on narrow roads can also contribute. Some head-on collisions occur when drivers mistakenly enter on- and off-ramps, highways, or one-way streets in the wrong direction. This can happen due to confusion, impaired driving, or inadequate signage. Uneven lanes during road work can make it difficult for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles, increasing the risk of head-on collisions.

Other head-on collisions occur when drivers stay at the wheel even though they are fatigued, which affects their decision-making, or fall asleep at the wheel. Adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain, fog, snow, or ice can reduce visibility and make it difficult to stay in the correct lane, potentially leading to head-on accidents. Mechanical failures, such as malfunctioning brakes, steering systems, or tire blowouts, can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles and collide with oncoming traffic.

Sometimes road design and conditions like insufficient signage, poorly marked lanes, potholes, inadequate road maintenance, or lack of centerline dividers on undivided highways can contribute to head-on collisions. Drivers who get caught up in activities that divert attention from driving, such as using mobile phones, eating, grooming, or adjusting vehicle controls, increase the likelihood of a head-on accident. A sudden health issue, such as a heart attack or loss of consciousness, can cause drivers to veer into oncoming traffic and result in a head-on collision.

These are just some of the common causes, and head-on accidents can occur due to a combination of factors or unique circumstances in each specific case.

Why do Head-on Collisions Tend to Be More Severe than Other Types of Accidents?

Head-on accidents are often severe due to several factors that contribute to the intensity of the collision. In a head-on collision, the speeds of both vehicles involved are combined. This means that the impact forces are much higher compared to other types of collisions, such as rear-end collisions or side-impact collisions. The force of two vehicles traveling towards each other at high speeds leads to a significant transfer of energy, resulting in severe damage and potential injuries.

In a head-on collision, the vehicles collide front-end to front-end, which means that the impact is concentrated on the front portions of both vehicles. The front of a vehicle is designed to absorb impact and protect passengers in the event of a crash. However, the concentrated force in a head-on collision can overwhelm the protective structures of the vehicles, leading to severe damage and a higher risk of injury to occupants.

In many other types of accidents, there is often some time for the vehicles involved to decelerate or absorb the impact gradually. However, in a head-on collision, there is minimal time to decelerate before the collision occurs. This increases the severity of the impact. This in turn can cause significant injuries to the occupants of the vehicles. The impact forces can result in severe head, neck, chest, and lower extremity injuries. The use of seat belts and airbags can help mitigate some of these injuries, but the high forces involved in head-on collisions still pose a substantial risk.

In spite of the fact that modern vehicles are designed with crumple zones, which are areas that are engineered to deform and absorb energy during a collision, in a head-on collision the entire front ends of both vehicles are impacted simultaneously, reducing the effectiveness of the crumple zones. This leads to less energy absorption and increases the likelihood of severe damage to the vehicle and its occupants.

Another problem is occupant restraint issues. In head-on collisions, the forces involved can subject occupants to rapid acceleration and deceleration, causing them to move violently within the vehicle. If occupants are not properly restrained by seat belts or if they are ejected from the vehicle, the risk of serious injury or fatality is significantly higher. An additional factor is that head-on collisions can sometimes result in secondary collisions with other objects, such as trees, poles, or other vehicles. These subsequent impacts can further compound the severity of the accident and increase the risk of additional injuries.

Prevalent Injuries that Occur as a Result of Head-on Collisions

Head-on accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity depending on factors such as the speed of the vehicles involved, the angle of collision, safety measures used (e.g., seat belts), and the structural integrity of the vehicles. Here are some of the most common injuries resulting from head-on accidents:

Head and Brain Injuries: Head-on collisions can lead to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, skull fractures, or contusions. These injuries occur when the head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, windshield, or other hard surfaces. TBIs can range from mild to severe and may cause long-lasting cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.

Neck and Spinal Injuries: Whiplash is a common injury in head-on accidents, where the rapid back-and-forth motion of the head strains the neck. This can cause neck sprains, strains, or herniated discs. More severe head-on collisions can result in spinal cord injuries, which may lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the level of the injury.

Chest and Abdominal Injuries: The forceful impact in a head-on collision can cause significant chest and abdominal injuries. These include rib fractures, internal organ damage (such as the heart, lungs, or liver), abdominal trauma, or injuries to the diaphragm. Airbags and seat belts can mitigate some of these injuries but may still result in chest bruising or fractures.

Pelvic and Lower Extremity Injuries: The lower extremities are vulnerable in head-on accidents. Injuries can include fractures of the pelvis, hips, legs, or feet. Knee injuries, such as ligament tears or dislocations, are also common. In severe accidents, lower limb amputations may occur.

Facial Injuries: Impact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or airbag can cause facial injuries, including fractures of the jaw, cheekbones, nose, or orbital bones. Soft tissue injuries, such as lacerations, contusions, or bruising, are also common.

Psychological Trauma: Head-on accidents can lead to psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, or depression. Witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event like a head-on collision can have long-lasting emotional effects on individuals involved.

Prompt medical attention should be sought following a head-on collision, even if no visible injuries are present.

Learn the Process to Determine Fault in a Head-on Accident

Determining fault in a head-on accident follows a similar process to determining fault in any other type of traffic accident. Fault is typically determined based on the principles of negligence, which involves assessing the actions and behaviors of the drivers involved. When police officers respond to the scene of an accident, they will typically create an official report documenting their observations, statements from witnesses, and any evidence collected. The police report can play a significant role in determining fault as it provides an objective account of the accident.

The police will be looking for violation of traffic laws or regulations, which can establish negligence and contribute to determining fault. For example, if one driver was found to be driving above the speed limit, running a red light, or making an illegal maneuver (e.g., passing in a no-passing zone), they may be deemed at fault for the accident. Eyewitnesses who saw the accident are another important component to determining fault. They can provide valuable information regarding the sequence of events and the actions of the drivers involved. Their statements can help establish the at-fault party by corroborating or contradicting the drivers’ versions of the events.

Physical evidence, such as skid marks, debris patterns, damage to the vehicles, and the point of impact, can provide important clues about how the accident occurred. Accident reconstruction experts may analyze this evidence to determine factors like the speed and positioning of the vehicles, contributing to the determination of fault. Statements made by the drivers involved can also be considered in determining fault. However, it’s important to note that driver statements may be biased or influenced by the stress of the situation, so they are usually evaluated in conjunction with other evidence.

In some cases, forensic analysis may be employed to gather additional evidence. This can include analyzing data from event data recorders (EDRs), surveillance footage, or conducting vehicle inspections to determine if any mechanical failures contributed to the accident. It is essential to remember that fault determination is not always straightforward, and it can vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances of the accident. Insurance companies, legal professionals, and sometimes courts may be involved in the process of determining fault in order to assign responsibility for damages and injuries resulting from the head-on accident.

Key Steps if You Have been Injured Due to a Head-on Accident

If you’ve been involved in a head-on accident and wish to file a personal injury claim, here are the steps you should consider taking:

First and foremost, seek medical attention. Your health and well-being should be the top priority. Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident. Go get medical attention even if it seems that everything’s okay—problems can arise on your way to the doctor. Prompt medical documentation will not only ensure that you receive appropriate care but also establish a record of your injuries for the personal injury claim.

Secondly, report the accident. Contact the police to report the head-on accident. They will create an official report documenting the details of the accident, which will be valuable evidence for your claim.

You will need to gather evidence. Collect as much evidence as possible to support your personal injury claim. This can include photographs of the accident scene, damage to the vehicles involved, injuries, and any visible road conditions or traffic signs. If there were witnesses, obtain their contact information as well.

Be sure to maintain detailed records of all medical treatments, including doctor’s visits, hospitalizations, medications, diagnostic tests, and rehabilitation. These records will serve as evidence of your injuries and the associated expenses.

You will need to contact your insurance company to report the accident and provide them with the necessary information. Cooperate with them during the claims process and provide accurate details of the accident.

Also remember to be careful to preserve evidence. Preserve any physical evidence related to the accident, such as damaged vehicle parts or clothing worn during the incident. Additionally, keep records of any expenses related to the accident, such as medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.

When dealing with your insurance company or the other driver’s, be cautious when providing statements or signing documents. Consulting and retaining your own attorney who can represent your interests throughout the process of seeking compensation is critical.

Pursuing a Wrongful Death Claim after a Loved One Dies in a Head-On Collision

Filing a wrongful death claim after a head-on accident involves specific steps to pursue legal action on behalf of a deceased individual. You will need to consult with an attorney, one who is experienced in wrongful death claims. Our legal team can guide you through the legal process, assess the viability of your claim, and provide personalized advice based on the specific circumstances of the accident.

Additionally, to file a wrongful death claim, you must establish legal grounds for the claim. This typically involves proving that the death was a result of another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. Negligence in a head-on accident may include factors such as drunk driving, distracted driving, or violating traffic laws. Our lawyers are skilled at demonstrating the proof you need to recover damages. We assist with gathering all of the necessary evidence to support your wrongful death claim. This may include the accident report, witness statements, photographs of the accident scene, medical records, and any available expert opinions or accident reconstructions that can demonstrate the liability of the at-fault party.

You’ll need to notify the insurance companies of the parties involved in the accident, including your own and the at-fault party’s insurance providers. It’s important to consult with your attorney before providing any statements or signing documents to ensure your rights are protected. You’ll also need to document the damages resulting from the wrongful death, including funeral and burial expenses, medical bills, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and emotional distress. Your attorney will help you determine the appropriate types of damages to include in your claim.

Be aware that the defendant’s insurance company may engage in settlement negotiations. Our diligent accident lawyers will represent your interests and work towards obtaining a fair settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, we may advise pursuing litigation and guide you through the legal proceedings. Throughout the legal process, our firm will present evidence and arguments to establish the liability of the at-fault party and prove the damages suffered by the surviving family members. If a settlement is reached or a judgment is awarded in your favor, the proceeds will be distributed according to the applicable laws and the court’s decision. Distribution is typically made to the eligible family members or the designated representative of the deceased’s estate.

It is important to consult with an attorney experienced in wrongful death claims, such as ours at Chamlin, Uliano, & Walsh, as we have a comprehensive understanding of the legal requirements and can guide you through the complex process while protecting your rights and interests during this difficult time.

What Our Southern New Jersey Head On Collision Attorneys can Do for You

Here at Chamlin, Uliano, & Walsh, we bring over 50 years of experience to representing clients who have been injured in motor vehicle accidents and other personal injury cases, as well as loved ones who have suffered the loss of someone else due to negligence in wrongful death claims. We can provide legal guidance, evaluate the strength of your claim, and represent your interests throughout the process as we work to recover just compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other applicable losses.

Consulting with an experienced attorney at our law office will help ensure that you follow the appropriate legal steps, understand all of your options, and have the most compelling claim for your injuries and losses if you have been involved in a head on accident in Wall, Holmdel, Belmar, Asbury Park, Manasquan, Long Branch, Tinton Falls, Neptune, Hazlet, and all areas of Monmouth County. Contact us at (732) 440-3950 for an initial consultation.