Modesto is home to many major roadways, from Highway 108 to Highway 132. On top of this, it is home to many sights, festivals, restaurants, and workplaces, which means that drivers are traveling from one place to another every hour of the day. This means that there are more opportunities for serious car accidents to occur, such as head-on collisions. These accidents can lead to severe harm such as property damage and catastrophic injuries.
At Maison Law, we represent victims of life-altering car accidents in Modesto and throughout the rest of California. We understand how difficult it can sometimes be to prove liability in a claim, especially when the insurance company is pointing the finger at you. Luckily, we have years of experience handling these cases and will stand by your side every step of the way. Please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free legal consultation and more information on your claim.
The Severity of Modesto Head-on Collisions
Head-on collisions are known for being some of the most dangerous accidents on our roads due to the fact that these accidents involve an immense amount of force. A head-on collision happens when the front of one motor vehicle slams into the front of another vehicle. Many victims of these accidents will suffer from long-term disability and pain due to their injuries.
In 2022, the Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) estimated that 97 head-on collisions took place throughout Modesto, Stanislaus County. Out of these accidents, 2 people lost their lives and 161 were injured. The truth is, head-on collisions can be prevented in Modesto in many ways when drivers take special precautions and pay close attention to the roads around them.
Leading Causes of Head-on Collisions
Head-on collisions can happen due to any number of reasons, leading to both minor or catastrophic results. Some of the most common reasons for these accidents on Modesto roads include the following:
Wrong-Way Driving: When a driver is headed at high speeds in the wrong direction, especially on a one-way street or highway, a serious accident is likely to occur. Many drivers have nowhere to safely go, which can lead to a head-on collision within seconds.
Distracted Driving: Many drivers travel into the wrong lane of traffic when they are distracted due to cell phones, food, and talking to passengers inside the vehicle. A head-on collision is likely to occur when a driver travels unknowingly into the other lane and cannot move over in time.
Driving Under the Influence: Intoxication due to drugs or alcohol can also lead to a head-on collision. A person could travel at excessive speeds or swerve in and out of lanes without even realizing it while intoxicated, which can quickly cause a head-on collision.
Drowsy Driving: A sleep-deprived driver may not realize they are in the wrong lane of traffic, especially if they completely fall asleep. This can lead to a severe head-on collision.
Speeding: Traveling at high speeds can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle, which can cause a head-on crash.
Injuries Present in Head-on Crashes
Because head-on collisions are so serious, they are likely to lead to extensive injuries and ongoing medical treatment. Some of these injuries include:
- Whiplash and other neck-related injuries
- Upper and lower back injuries
- Broken bones/Fractures
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Death in the most severe cases
Because some injuries do not show up right away following a head-on collision, an individual who has been involved in one of these accidents should never delay medical treatment. Seeking medical treatment not only protects your health and well-being, but also makes it easier for you to file a successful personal injury claim for damages in the future.
Who is Liable in a Head-on Collision?
In Modesto and throughout California, drivers have a duty of care to look out for the safety of others who share our roads. In the case of a head-on collision, it is not always easy to prove that another party is liable unless you can show that negligence was at play in some way. With the help of a lawyer, you will have to show the following to determine liability:
- A driver owed you a duty of care
- A driver breached that duty of care through negligence
- The breach in duty led to your accident
- The accident led to damages
If you can show that another party is liable for your accident, you may be able to receive damages for a wide array of aspects such as medical bills, lost income, and more. This can help you get back on your feet as you physically recover.
Contact a Modesto Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been involved in a serious Modesto head-on collision, you may be feeling alone and confused regarding your next steps. On top of this, it is not uncommon for the insurance company to start calling soon after your accident, leaving you in a difficult position you cannot handle alone.
Our Modesto car accident lawyers at Maison Law are here for you and your family during this challenging time. When the insurance company is only trying to make a profit, we will ensure that your rights are being protected. We will provide you with the resources that you need to get back on your feet. Please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free and completely confidential case review.
