Of all the different types of accidents on the road, head-on collisions are some of the deadliest. Even when someone survives this type of crash, they and their families will suffer serious physical, emotional, and financial losses. Under South Carolina law, accident victims who suffer harm caused by another person’s negligence can file a claim against the liable party for damages. This compensation can help injured individuals recover their medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Below, our Columbia head-on collision lawyer explains in further detail.
What Causes Head-On Collisions in Columbia?
When building a personal injury claim, it is critical to determine who caused the accident. There are many different causes of head-on collisions, but the most common are as follows:
- Distracted driving: Being distracted while behind the wheel forces drivers to take their eyes off the road ahead of them. That can increase the risk of swerving into the lane of oncoming traffic.
- Impaired driving: Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs reduces a driver’s reaction time, impairs their judgment, and can lead to head-on collisions. For example, an impaired driver may turn the wrong way onto a one-way road and cause a head-on collision.
- Fatigued driving: Fatigued driving is so dangerous that it has been compared to drunk driving. Fatigued drivers may not be able to focus on the road, or they may even fall asleep, causing them to drift into another lane.
- Passing: In Columbia, drivers often want to pass a vehicle in front of them, particularly if they are driving very slowly. If a driver misjudges the distance or speed of oncoming traffic, it can result in a deadly head-on collision.
- Improper road conditions: Roads that are not properly maintained may force drivers into the lane of oncoming traffic, causing a head-on collision.
Common Injuries in Head-On Collision Accidents
Head-on collisions cause some of the most severe injuries on the roads, particularly when they happen at high speeds. The most common injuries in head-on collisions include:
- Traumatic brain injuries: The sudden impact of a head-on collision can cause the brain to hit the skull, which can result in concussions and even more serious forms of traumatic brain injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries: The spine is very delicate, and the sheer force of a crash can cause the spinal column to sustain significant damage. This can cause injuries ranging from ruptured discs to complete or partial paralysis.
- Broken bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and wrists are particularly vulnerable to fractures in head-on collisions due to the position of the body when it is inside a vehicle.
- Internal injuries: Organs such as the spleen, liver, and lungs can become punctured by a broken rib. The crushing nature of a head-on collision can also cause internal damage. Damage to the organs and internal bleeding are not always apparent right away, emphasizing the need to seek medical attention after any accident.
- Dental and facial injuries: The face may be directly hit by the dashboard, steering wheel, or airbag, which can result in facial fractures, deep cuts, and dental damage.
The above are just a few types of injuries common in head-on collisions. If you have suffered injury, it is critical to speak to a Columbia head-on collision lawyer who can help.
How Can a Columbia Head-On Collision Lawyer Help with Your Case?
There are many ways a lawyer can help you navigate the intricacies of these complicated cases. Our attorney can investigate the crash, collect important evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident scene to determine how the accident occurred. Our meticulous attention to detail ensures we have all of the necessary information to build a strong case for compensation.
We also have a deep understanding of the complex medical issues associated with head-on collisions. When working on your case, we may work closely with the medical professionals providing you treatment to establish the full extent of your injuries, so you understand the long-term consequences or any additional medical treatment you may need in the future.
Our attorney can also communicate with the insurance company on your behalf. This ensures that they will not use tactics to deny or reduce your claim. For example, if you tell the insurer that you are sorry the crash occurred at all, they may take your words out of context to show that you caused the accident. Our attorney is familiar with these insurance strategies and will ensure your rights are protected at all times.
Lastly, we will also handle all the legal details of your claim. For example, under SC Code § 15-3-20, you only have three years from the date of your accident to file your claim; however, there are situations where a shorter statute of limitations may apply. It is critical to consult an attorney as early as possible to ensure that your claim is filed in time. This is known as the statute of limitations, or time limit. If you do not file within this timeframe, you will likely lose the right to file a claim for compensation at all. We will ensure your claim is filed on time and that all other legal procedures are followed so the compensation you are entitled to is not put at risk.
Areas Our Columbia Head-On Collision Lawyer Serves
Our head-on collision lawyer helps clients throughout Columbia, including in the ZIP codes: 29044, 29045, 29061, 29063, 29078, 29147, 29169, 29201, 29202, 29203, 29204, 29205, 29206, 29207, 29208, 29209, 29210, 29211, 29212, and 29214. If you live in Columbia or the surrounding area and you have been hurt, our Columbia head-on collision lawyer can help.
Our Head-On Collision Lawyer in Columbia Can Help with Your Case
The aftermath of a head-on collision is traumatic. You will likely be suffering from serious injury, be unable to return to work right away, and wonder how you are going to pay for your medical bills. At Rikard & Protopapas, our Columbia head-on collision lawyer can provide the legal advice you need and help you navigate the claims process so you obtain the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.