Head-on collisions are frightening events that often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. The force of two vehicles colliding head-on at full speed can instantly change the lives of victims and their families.
Although head-on collisions only account for a small percentage of all traffic accidents, they are historically responsible for around 10% of fatal accidents each year. If you or a loved one has been injured in a head-on collision in Modesto, Berg Injury Lawyers is here to help you seek justice and compensation.
Head-On Collisions Can Lead to Severe Injuries
The violent impact of a head-on crash can cause severe, life-altering injuries, including:
- Severe Lacerations and Disfigurement: Shattered glass, twisted metal, and airbag deployment can cause deep cuts and permanent scarring.
- Broken Bones and Crushed Limbs: The sheer force of impact often results in fractures and crushed extremities that may require surgery or amputation.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): The sudden jolt or direct impact can lead to concussions, brain bleeding, or long-term cognitive impairment.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These crashes frequently cause spinal damage, which can result in paralysis or chronic pain.
- Internal Organ Damage: Blunt force trauma may lead to internal bleeding or organ failure, requiring emergency surgery.
- Fatalities/Wrongful Death: Tragically, many head-on collisions result in loss of life, leaving families devastated and in need of legal recourse.
Getting Compensation After a Head-On Collision in Modesto
If you’ve been injured in a head-on crash, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Covers hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Reimbursement for missed work and future income loss due to disability.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional trauma, and diminished quality of life.
- Property Damage: Repairs or replacement costs for your vehicle and personal belongings.
Liability for Head-On Collisions in Modesto
Establishing liability is crucial in securing compensation. To prove negligence, four key elements must be demonstrated:
- Duty of Care: Every driver is legally responsible for operating their vehicle safely and following traffic laws.
- Breach of Duty: The at-fault driver failed to uphold this responsibility through reckless or careless actions.
- Causation: The driver’s negligence directly caused the accident and injuries.
- Damages: The victim suffered measurable harm, such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Negligent Driving Behaviors That Lead to Head-On Collisions
Many head-on crashes happen because of preventable driver error. Examples of driver error or misconduct include:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting GPS systems can cause a driver to drift into oncoming traffic.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drugs severely impact judgment, coordination, and reaction time, increasing the risk of a deadly collision.
- Drowsy Driving: Fatigued drivers can fall asleep at the wheel or fail to react in time to avoid a crash.
- Wrong-Way Driving: Drivers who mistakenly enter a highway exit ramp or swerve into oncoming lanes can cause devastating accidents.
How Berg Injury Lawyers Can Prove Liability
Building a strong case requires solid evidence. Our legal team can help by collecting and analyzing critical evidence. We gather photos and videos of the crash scene, including skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions. This visual evidence helps reconstruct what happened.
Additionally, we collect testimonies from witnesses who saw the crash. These first-hand accounts significantly strengthen your case. Another bit of critical evidence we explore are police reports. They provide crucial details, offering an official record of the accident and any citations issued.
We also examine physical evidence, such as vehicle debris and damage assessments, to determine fault. There are times when cases benefit from consulting accident reconstruction specialists. These experts analyze crash dynamics to demonstrate how the accident occurred and help identify the responsible party.
What to Do After a Head-On Collision in Modesto
In the moments right after a head-on collision, injured victims can be left in shock. To say that the experience is overwhelming is an understatement. Because we’ve seen time and time again how difficult it is to think and act appropriately in these situations, here are some key steps to protect your health and your rights:
- Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention. This prioritizes your health and allows police to document the scene.
- If possible, collect evidence at the scene. Take photos and gather contact information from witnesses.
- Obtain a copy of the police report. This serves as crucial documentation for your claim.
- Notify your insurance company. Report the accident, but avoid making detailed statements without legal guidance.
- Contact a Modesto head-on collision lawyer. An experienced attorney can help you through the legal process and fight for fair compensation.
Why Choose Berg Injury Lawyers?
When dealing with the aftermath of a serious crash, you need a legal team with a proven track record. Here’s why clients trust Berg Injury Lawyers:
- Over 40 Years of Experience: We have decades of success handling complex car accident claims.
- Deep Understanding of Local and State Laws: Our knowledge of California traffic laws helps us build strong cases.
- Personalized Guidance and Support: We take the time to understand your situation and tailor our approach to your needs.
- No Fee Guarantee®: If you don’t win, you pay nothing.
Call Berg Injury Lawyers for Help
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a head-on collision in Modesto, don’t try to deal with the legal process alone. Berg Injury Lawyers is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.