Many different types of accidents are among the most serious that occur in Florida each year. By far, head-on collisions cause one of the highest injury and fatality rates out of any other types of accidents. In fact, approximately 10% of road accident fatalities stem from a head-on collision, according to statistics. This means that more measures must be taken to ensure that these accidents do not continue on our roads.

What Exactly is a Head-on Collision?

When one vehicle collides with the front-end of another, this is called a head-on collision. The majority of these accidents are caused by negligence on behalf of one party. Many take place when one vehicle crosses over a lane and heads into the other lane of traffic, where it strikes the front-end of another. They happen when drivers are not paying close attention to which way they are traveling on-ramps and also when a driver makes an illegal turn in the middle of the road, ending up in the other lane of traffic. As you can see, many of these collisions are preventable.

Reasons Why Head-on Collisions Tend to Occur 

Distracted Driving: Distracted driving causes over 3,000 fatalities in the U.S. every single year. With more and more drivers using smartphones, it is no surprise that many of these accidents happen because of texting and driving, which can cause a driver to drive into the other lane of traffic. There are many distractions that can cause these accidents, however, including talking with passengers in the vehicle and eating while driving. 

Weather Conditions: When the roads are not clearly visible due to adverse weather conditions, this can cause a driver to wind up in the wrong lane. Drivers might end up causing one of these accidents because of things like dense fog, rain, and snow among many other reasons.

DUI: When a driver is driving while under the influence of alcohol, their judgment will typically become impaired. This means that a driver is more likely to lose control of their vehicle, which makes them drive into the other lane of traffic. Between 2003 and 2012, over 8,400 lives were taken in DUI accidents in Florida and these accidents continue to lead to head-on collisions.

Inexperience: When a driver is inexperienced, they are more likely to become involved in a serious accident. This is especially true for teenage drivers, who might not be as familiar with the rules of the road. 

Fatigue: Many head-on collisions take place every year when people fall asleep at the wheel after driving long distances or being fatigued due to work. Fatigued drivers put others at risk and drivers should always ensure that they receive enough sleep.

Speeding: When a vehicle is traveling at high speeds, it is more likely to end in serious damages. Speeding drivers are more likely to miss road signs and blow through intersections, which can lead to a serious head-on collision.

How an Attorney Can Help After Your Accident

Many common injuries stem from head-on collisions including broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, and even sudden death due to the forceful impact. If you or someone you love has been impacted by a head-on collision, speaking with a Florida car accident attorney should be your first choice after your accident. Our attorneys at Sheftall & Associates understand how overwhelmed you might be feeling as you move forward with your claim and wish to offer our assistance. Please contact our accident attorneys in Florida at 904-647-2296 to find out how we can assist you.