A head-on collision can contribute to one of the worst imaginable injuries. Surprisingly, there is a likelihood of the victims suffering from fatal or permanent complications at high speeds. When a vehicle crashes with another in the front, the impact force might be multiplied, such that the sudden loss of speed becomes too much, and the human body cannot handle it. In reality, during a head-on crash, the major cause tends to be reckless driving. Unfortunately, if a head-on collision does not contribute to death, the victim might suffer from the following injuries.
Whiplash
If you experience a head on collision, your neck and head might continue to move forward while your body stays in place if you are wearing a seatbelt. Such a jerking and sudden motion is referred to as whiplash, making the muscles and ligaments in the back and neck overstretch. Depending on the severity of the impact, your shoulders and neck can twist outside their normal radius, making muscles, tendons, and ligaments tear and stretch. Whiplash injuries might be associated with the following signs and symptoms:
- Blurred vision
- Numbness
- Pain in the neck, back, and shoulders
- Dizziness
- Headaches
Leg and foot injuries
It is very common for victims of head-on collisions to experience lower extremity injuries. That is because the legs and feet involve one of the body parts, which receive most of the impact. The common injuries in such cases include broken bones, foot and ankle injuries, crushed legs, and torn anterior cruciate ligament.
Broken facial bones
In severe head-on collisions, the passengers or driver might experience damage to their inner bone and facial structure. Such facial wounds are common and can result in jawbone, cheek, eye socket, and chin irregularities. In most cases, the victims might be required to receive plastic surgery to correct their conditions.
Spain cord injuries
Your spinal cord discs can be harshly damaged when exposed to a severe head-on collision. Such an accident can result in herniated or ruptured discs and permanent damage to the spinal cord. There can also be instances where a victim experiences paralysis that can vary from partial to complete loss of sensation in the four limbs, torso, and legs. In reality, spinal cord injuries are precarious and need urgent medical assistance.
Traumatic brain injuries
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can happen when outside forces disrupt the normal functioning of the brain. For instance, a bump to a jolt or head can contribute to brain damage. TBI is common in head-on vehicle accidents that include significant forces. If your head strikes an asphalt steering wheel, windshield, or another hard surface, you might experience bruising, swelling, or bleeding of the brain. The TBIs might involve mild concussions to permanent brain damage. However, most brain damage is very serious and needs urgent medical attention. In severe situations, the victims can lose brain activity, end up in a coma or die. In contrast, with less severe injuries, the victim’s way of talking, moving, and thinking might be altered. That is why traumatic brain injuries translate to lasting medical treatments and substantial settlements.
Protecting your rights after a head-on collision
If you lose your loved one or you suffer from injuries in a head-on crash, you need to gather the necessary evidence and champion a fair settlement for the damages. If another person was at fault for the crash, you might recover from damages including:
- Emotional suffering and physical pain
- Funeral expenses for the diseased
- Future, current, and past lost wages
- Future, current, and past medical expenses
The insurance firm of the opposing party might fight back and attempt to reduce the amount of compensation for the accident injuries. Therefore, you need to contact an experienced head-on collision attorney immediately after an accident to ensure that your recovery and rights are protected.
