All types of motor vehicle accidents have the potential for causing catastrophic and life-threatening injuries. However, head-on collisions can be extremely dangerous. The injuries from a head-on collision can cause debilitating conditions. Working with an Illinois personal injury attorney can help you recover maximum compensation for head-on collision injuries.
Three Common Injuries Caused by a Head-On Collision
Head-on collisions occur when two cars collide while traveling in opposite directions. A common cause of head-on collisions is a vehicle swerving into the opposite lane of traffic because of distracted driving, impaired driving, or fatigued driving. A driver may also swerve into opposing traffic while trying to avoid a road hazard or traffic.
When cars collide head-on, the occupants can sustain numerous injuries, including:
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Head and brain injuries are common in head-on collisions. The head may strike the window, steering wheel, front seat, or dashboard. In some cases, a person could be thrown from the vehicle causing the head to strike several surfaces and objects.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) range from mild to severe. A TBI could result from a closed head injury or a penetrating head injury. Most cases of mild TBI heal within a few days or weeks without significant medical treatment. People who sustain severe TBI can require extensive medical treatment and may develop permanent disabilities. A person may not be able to return to work and require long-term personal care.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Back Injuries
The spinal column is not designed to handle the extreme and sudden movements caused by a high-velocity impact. An injury to the back might cause a spinal cord injury, which could lead to a loss of mobility and/or loss of sensation. Paralysis is a catastrophic injury that changes a person’s life forever. Depending on the severity of the paralysis, the person could require round-the-clock personal care and medical care.
Back injuries also include dislocated and fractured vertebrae. Back surgery could result in months of painful recovery and require extensive physical therapy and occupational therapy. A person who sustains a back injury may miss substantial time from work, which results in lost wages and benefits.
Broken Bones and Fractures
A head-on collision can also cause multiple broken bones and fractures. If a car crumples, the driver and front-seat passenger could be crushed between the dash and the seat. Broken legs and ankles are common. Broken facial bones are also common. Complex fractures may require surgery to repair the damage, including inserting plates, screws, and pins to stabilize the bones or joints.
Working with an Illinois Personal Injury Attorney to Recover Damages for a Head-On Collision
Damages in a head-on collision include the physical injuries caused by the crash. Damages also include mental anguish and emotional distress. A person injured in an accident also sustains financial damages, including medical bills and loss of income.
An Illinois personal injury attorney investigates the accident to gather evidence proving the other driver caused the crash. The other driver’s insurance provider might challenge liability for the accident. If so, you need an attorney to help you prove that you did not cause the crash. Your lawyer also works with you to document your damages to maximize the amount of money you can receive for an injury claim. Contact us today.
