Southern California Injury Lawyer Blog
Head-on collisions make up a small percentage of the overall number of California car accidents; however, they are also among the most deadly. Those that survive a head-on collision typically require extensive and long-term medical care. During recovery, many head-on accident victims cannot work, presenting significant financial burdens, as treatment is often costly. California car accident victims should contact an attorney to discuss their rights and remedies after a head-on collision.
Head-on collisions occur when a front-end of a vehicle collides with the front-end of another vehicle. The speed rate can affect the extent of damages; however, even collisions at a slow speed can result in serious damages. California head-on collisions’ most common causes involve driver fatigue, speeding, driver distraction, texting and driving, and poor road conditions. Even if an airbag deploys, these accidents can still result in extensive injuries. The most common types of injuries include broken bones, spinal cord injuries, abrasions, organ damage, and traumatic brain injury.
California law requires drivers to operate their car safely and use due care to avoid causing injuries to others. Drivers must obey safety laws and modify their driving to comport with weather and traffic conditions. When a driver engages in negligent or reckless driving, they may be liable for negligence. Although insurance may cover some damages, the at-fault driver may be responsible for paying damages that the insurance company will not cover. In some cases, head-on collision lawsuits proceed to a jury trial.
In a California head-on accident lawsuit, a plaintiff must establish that the other party was negligent. Some common ways to prove negligence is showing that the defendant improperly passed a vehicle, made an illegal turn or U-turn, was experiencing road rage or intoxication, or exhibiting other unsafe driving habits. A jury may conclude that either or both parties were responsible for the accident. California is a pure comparative negligence state, which means that state courts permit injury plaintiffs to recover damages even if they are 99% at-fault for the accident. However, their recovery is reduced relative to their level of fault.
Recently, the New York Times reported on a fatal California head-on collision. Nine people, including seven minors, died in a fiery crash between an S.U.V. and a pickup truck. A 28-year-old driving the S.U.V was traveling south when he approached the pickup truck traveling in the opposite direction. The S.U.V driver swerved onto the shoulder, lost control, crossed back into the center line, and slammed head-on into the pickup. The driver of the S.U.V. and several of the pickup truck’s occupants died as a result of the accident.
Have You Suffered Injuries in a California Car Accident?
If you or someone you love has suffered serious injuries or died in a California car accident, you should contact the Sharifi Firm. The personal injury attorneys at the Sharifi Firm have extensive experience successfully representing clients in cases involving motor vehicle accidents, nursing home negligence, premises liability cases, and wrongful death. Our clients have recovered significant amounts of compensation through our dedicated and diligent representation, including payments for medical expenses, lost wages and benefits, pain and suffering, and funeral and burial expenses. Contact our law firm at 866-422-7222, to schedule a free initial consultation with an attorney on our team.