It is not easy to recover from a head-on collision in Orange County. This is a severe type of car accident that often inflicts a life-changing level of damage on those involved. You may need assistance from an experienced car accident attorney in Orange County to hold someone responsible for your head-on collision and receive the justice you deserve.
What Is a Head-On Collision?
A head-on collision occurs when two cars traveling in opposite directions crash into each other, with the front ends of both cars colliding. Due to the mechanics of this type of crash, a head-on collision is one of the most severe types of car accidents, with a strong combined force of impact. This means head-on collisions often cause catastrophic injuries and deaths.
Common Causes of Head-On Car Accidents in Orange County
Head-on car accidents are often caused by driver mistakes and acts of negligence, such as failing to drive prudently or with proper care. A careless or reckless driver can make many errors behind the wheel that result in traumatic head-on collisions in Orange County. Common causes include:
- Distracted driving, including texting while driving
- Driving while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol
- Drowsy driving or falling asleep behind the wheel
- Driving the wrong direction on a one-way street or freeway
- Engaging in dangerous or reckless driving maneuvers
- Speeding, leading to a loss of vehicle control
- Mechanical failures, such as brake or steering malfunctions
If the other driver involved in your head-on collision is at fault, you have the right to file a claim with his or her car insurance company in pursuit of financial compensation. In California, the at-fault party is responsible for paying for a victim’s crash-related medical expenses and property repairs.
What to Do After a Head-On Collision
Collecting an insurance settlement so that you can move forward from a head-on car accident with confidence requires taking certain steps after the crash. If you can, here’s what you should do to protect yourself:
- Check yourself for injuries and seek medical care right away, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Call the police to report the head-on car accident to document the crash.
- Exchange information with the other driver. Do not admit fault.
- Take pictures of the scene, including both vehicles and the surrounding roadway.
- Call your own car insurance company to notify them of the head-on collision.
Before you begin the insurance process, consult with a car accident attorney for advice about your case. You can trust your attorney to give you honest counsel that will help you protect your right to recover.
How to File a Claim for a Head-On Collision in Orange County
Hiring an attorney can provide you with invaluable resources and capabilities during your head-on car accident claim in Orange County. Your lawyer can communicate with insurance providers on your behalf to negotiate for fair financial compensation. If necessary, your lawyer can bring your case to court for the best possible results. Most importantly, your lawyer will help you on the road to recovery by connecting you to the right doctors for your physical and emotional health. For more information about a particular case, discuss your head-on collision with an attorney at Bridgford, Gleason & Artinian at no cost or obligation. Contact us today for a free consultation.