Injured in a Head-On Collision: What to Do Next

A head-to-head collision occurs when the front ends of two vehicles collide, often at high speeds. Because of the force involved, these accidents can cause severe injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, and spinal cord damage. Head-on collisions are less common than rear-end or side-impact accidents, but they are often more deadly.

Common causes of head-on crashes include:

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone
• Speeding or reckless driving
• Drifting into oncoming lanes due to fatigue, poor weather, or road conditions
• Failure to obey traffic signals or signs

Regardless of the cause, the aftermath of a head-on collision can be overwhelming, both physically and legally.

After a head-on collision, your priority should always be your safety. If you can, move to a safe location away from oncoming traffic and check yourself and passengers for injuries. Even minor symptoms should not be ignored, as serious injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately apparent.

A healthcare professional can evaluate your condition, provide necessary treatment, and create medical records that support your claim, so be sure to schedule a doctor’s appointment right away. Call 911 so emergency responders can document the accident, provide medical assistance, and create an official police report you can use later on in your case.

Once your safety and medical attention have been secured, you should next try to gather as much information as possible. Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver, and collect statements from any witnesses. Document the scene with photos of the vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, and any visible injuries – evidence that can be invaluable if there are disputes about fault or claims made for damages.

Establishing liability in a head-on car collision can be complicated, especially if multiple factors contributed to the crash. In general, fault is assigned to the driver who violated traffic laws or acted negligently. This could involve speeding, drifting into the wrong lane, driving under the influence, or failing to pay attention to road conditions. Police reports, eyewitness testimony, and physical evidence—such as vehicle damage and skid marks—are often key in determining fault. In some cases, both drivers may share responsibility, which is known as comparative negligence and can affect the compensation an injured party receives.

Recovering from a head-on collision can be daunting, not only because of physical injuries but also insurance negotiations and potential legal action. An experienced Georgia car accident lawyer can be invaluable in these situations in reviewing police reports, collecting evidence, and consulting with experts, if needed. Attorneys also negotiate with insurance companies to maximize compensation and protect your rights, making sure you don’t accept a settlement that falls short of what you deserve.

Protecting your rights after a head-on collision involves careful documentation and strategic action. Immediately notify your own insurance carrier, as this will protect your rights in case the at-fault driver has insufficient insurance. Keep all of your medical records, repair estimates, and communications with insurance companies organized. Avoid making statements about the accident that could be interpreted as admitting fault, and, most importantly, talk with a knowledgeable attorney who can guide you through the claims process, negotiate a fair settlement, and, if necessary, take the case to court to help you fight for maximum compensation.

A head-on collision is a life-altering event that can leave victims facing serious injuries, emotional trauma, and complicated legal issues. Understanding what to do immediately after the accident can protect your recovery and your rights. At The Dixon Firm, we provide experienced legal guidance for victims of head-on car collisions, helping you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for help if you’ve been in a head-on collision. We offer free consultations.