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Recognizing the catastrophic nature of head-on collisions in Texas, our attorneys employ a thorough approach to establish liability and secure comprehensive compensation for the grave injuries and losses sustained.
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Texas Head-On Car Accident Attorney
In a head-on collision, the front end of any two vehicles, such as cars, boats, or other vehicles, hit with their front ends while they are going toward each other. Because they are both moving at higher speeds, the force of both vehicles is multiplied, resulting in a very hard collision. A common example is a train wreck, where the signals get crossed and the two trains on the same line meet violently.
Head-On Car Collisions
Even though they don’t make a large number of total collisions, only being about 2 percent of overall car accident collisions, head-on collisions make up a disproportionate number of fatalities. Because the vehicles meet with such great force at what might be high speed, the crash is incredibly violent and could cause the immediate death of the drivers and passengers involved.
Like sideswipe accidents, head-on collisions normally occur because the operators could not stay in their lane and no physical dividers exist. The number of fatalities from head-on collisions reduced dramatically when barriers were put in between lanes. Barriers include concrete or cable barriers, which give the driver a physical reminder to not cross over.
Some other head-on collisions happen when drivers enter the freeway on the wrong ramp, which causes them to start driving into oncoming traffic. Designers attempt to prevent this with markings and signs to make it clear which exit is needed. Head-on collisions are more prevalent in a rural area where there is less traffic and the roads are often not as well marked.
Head-On Collision Accident Statistics
Every year the Texas Department of Transportation collects statistics on crashes and publishes a Crash Sheet. The fatality rate in Texas is increasing, with the overall rate being 1.44 deaths per hundred vehicle miles traveled. A reportable crash occurred every 57 seconds in 2016, with a fatal crash occurring every two hours and 20 minutes. Even pedestrian fatalities went up 21.5 percent, to reach 678.
There were 3,578 fatal accidents in Texas in 2015; of those, 586 people were killed in head-on collisions. Total fatal crashes increased to 3,773 in 2016, with 638 being fatal head-on collisions. Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol cause a larger number of head-on collisions.
Common Injuries from Head-On Collisions
As with injuries from being rear-ended, a common injury in a head-on collision is whiplash. Because the head and neck continue to move after the cars hit and stop moving, the head then “whips” back, which causes a great strain on the ligaments and muscles in the neck, shoulders, and back. Victims of whiplash may experience pain, headaches, stiffness, and dizziness. They should see a doctor immediately so that they can start the recovery process.
Other injuries include abdominal or spinal injuries caused by the impact of the crash. When the head is thrown forward, it may strike something, resulting in a concussion. The victim could end up with brain damage.
If the force of the crash is excessive enough, the seatbelt or airbag may injure the chest, face, or even break some ribs.
The feet and legs could take much of the impact because they are in the front where the collision is. This could result in broken bones or torn ligaments.
Head-On Collision Settlements
Because head-on collisions are traumatic, they can result in great personal injury, leading to large settlements for the victims. A victim in Kansas was involved in a head-on collision, and she did not believe she was injured at the time. However, she started experiencing symptoms that caused her to seek medical treatment, and it turned out that she had a concussion. The settlement she received was for $70,000.
A Texas woman was hit head-on by a truck, causing her to suffer several broken bones and a permanently injured arm. She was a wife and mother of two who had been working in the mortgage industry, and she negotiated a settlement that would ensure her future. She eventually agreed to accept $2,000,000.
A young man in California was hit head-on by an underinsured motorist, causing him to suffer a fracture and soft tissue swelling. He accepted the maximum from the underinsured motorist, which was $50,000, and tried to recover the rest from his own insurance company. His insurance company disputed the injuries, so he brought suit against him. The jury awarded him $300,000 for pain and suffering and another $4,000,000 in punitive damages.
A young male in New Jersey suffered several injuries when the vehicle he was riding in was hit head-on. He tried to collect from the insurance company, but they denied his claim because they said it was his fault because he wasn’t wearing his seatbelt. He filed suit and the jury awarded him $250,000, which the judge reduced by 70 percent to apportion his fault in his injuries.
Legal Help after a Head-on Car Accident
If you or a loved one have been involved in a head-on car accident, you are probably dealing with serious injuries. You need competent care and help to deal with the legal system. It is very likely the person who caused the injury is a co-worker or a loved one.
At The Dashner Law Firm, we understand the complex issues you are dealing with. We can make sure your loved one receives the care he or she needs while working within the law to get you the compensation you deserve. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a free consultation, call The Dashner Law Firm today.
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Car Accident FAQ’s
RECENTLY ASKED TOPICS
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Texas Car Accident Attorney?
Texas car accident attorneys typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront costs and the attorney receives a percentage of your compensation only if you win.
Texas car accident attorneys typically operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t have any upfront expenses. In essence, the attorney’s payment is derived from a portion of the compensation you receive. The percentage they take often varies based on when your case is settled. For instance, if the case progresses to trial, the attorney may command a higher percentage due to the increased time, effort, and resources invested. Conversely, if the case is settled without initiating a lawsuit, the attorney’s percentage is usually lower because of the reduced workload. This arrangement ensures that legal representation is accessible to accident victims regardless of their financial situation. You’ll never pay money out-of-pocket for services, and the attorney does not collect until you do. This means you can pursue justice and fair compensation without worrying about legal fees while you’re dealing with medical bills and lost income from your accident.
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Texas?
Ensure safety, call 911, exchange information with other drivers, and document the scene with photos, witness information, and notes.
After a car accident, follow these critical steps to protect your health and legal rights. Ensure safety: Check for injuries and move to a safe location if possible. If anyone is injured or the vehicles are blocking traffic and can be safely moved, relocate to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot. Call 911: Report the accident to law enforcement. This creates an official record of the incident and ensures that police document the scene, which can be crucial for your claim. Exchange information: Share contact and insurance details with the other driver(s), including names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, insurance company names, and policy numbers. Document the scene: Take photos of vehicle damage from multiple angles, the accident scene showing road conditions and traffic signals, visible injuries, skid marks or debris, and the position of all vehicles involved. Gather witness information including names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident. Make notes about the time, location, weather conditions, traffic patterns, and your recollection of how the accident occurred. Seek medical attention even if you don’t feel injured, as some conditions may not manifest immediately. Notify your insurance company about the accident, but be cautious about giving recorded statements without legal counsel. At The Dashner Law Firm, we take immediate action to preserve critical evidence and build a strong case, so contact us as soon as possible after your accident.
Is it necessary to call the police after a car accident in Texas?
Yes, you should call the police, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage, as a police report is crucial for insurance claims and legal purposes.
Yes, you should call the police to report the accident, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. A police report can be crucial for insurance claims and legal purposes. Understanding when and why to involve law enforcement can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation and protect your legal rights.
Legal Requirements in Texas:
In Texas, you are required by law to report accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Given that most car accidents involve damage exceeding this threshold, calling the police is not just advisable—it’s often legally mandatory. Failing to report a reportable accident can result in legal penalties and complications with your insurance claim.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in Texas?
You have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim and typically two years for property damage claims in Texas.
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including car accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. For property damage claims, it is typically two years as well. In Texas, you have TWO YEARS from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Understanding this deadline and its implications is critical to protecting your legal rights and recovering the compensation you deserve.
How is fault determined in Texas car accidents?
Texas follows modified comparative fault, meaning each party’s degree of fault is considered, and you can recover damages if you’re less than 51% at fault, though compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Texas follows a “modified comparative fault” system, which means that each party’s degree of fault is considered. If you are found to be less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your compensation may be reduced based on your level of fault. Understanding how fault is determined and allocated is crucial to maximizing your compensation and protecting your rights after a car accident.
What damages can I recover after a car accident?
You can recover medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages depending on your case circumstances.
You may be eligible to recover various damages, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. The specific damages depend on the circumstances of your case. In Texas, victims of car accidents can seek compensation for the injuries and losses they’ve suffered due to another party’s negligence. This compensation typically comes in the form of damages, a monetary award given to the injured party. Understanding the full scope of recoverable damages is essential to ensuring you receive complete compensation for all the ways the accident has impacted your life.
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If you have been injured in an accident, then the Dashner Law Firm can help you. Call our personal injury lawyers today at 972-793-8989 to speak with an attorney about your situation. The consultation is free and, if you cannot come to us because of your injuries, we’ll come to you.
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Mr. Dashner gives his personal attention to his clients. He’s one of the only attorneys who give you his direct line and is available to answer your questions and ensure you are taken care of. You can expect frequent updates, personal attention, and a solid ally when you work with Mr. Dashner. You’ll never pay money out-of-pocket for Mr. Dashner’s services. He does not collect until you do.