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Head-On Crash Settlement Value (2024): Here’s What to Expect

Determining the average settlement for a head-on collision can be challenging as it depends on various factors, including the severity of injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, insurance coverage, and applicable laws. Settlement amounts can vary widely based on these factors and the specific circumstances of each case.
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What is a Head-On Collision?

According to FlorinRoebig, frontal collision, commonly known as a head-on collision, occurs when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide with each other [1].

These incidents can involve cars, trucks, or motorcycles. Additionally, if a vehicle collides with a stationary object like a tree, light pole, or cement barrier head-on, it falls under this category.

Although head-on collisions are relatively uncommon compared to other types of car accidents, they pose the highest risk of danger and fatality. According to data from the Insurance Information Institute, while head-on collisions accounted for only two percent of all crashes nationwide in 2017, they resulted in over ten percent of fatal accidents.

The severity of injuries associated with a front-end crash are typically much more significant when compared to other types of crashes, such as a rear-end collision. Head-on crashes produce the greatest force of impact because both cars are moving right before they collide. While any auto accident can be perilous, these types of accidents are notorious for causing serious and life-threatening injuries – FlorinRoebig Group.

Who is at Fault for a Head-On Collision?

According to the Forbes 2024 publication, in many instances, one of the drivers involved in a head-on collision bears responsibility for the accident [2]. For instance, if a driver is intoxicated or fatigued and veers out of their lane, colliding head-on with another vehicle, results in a head-on collision.

Occasionally, those accountable for road design may be at fault due to insufficient signage or confusing road layouts. Similarly, a vehicle manufacturer might be liable if a defect in the vehicle leads to a head-on crash.

Determining liability in any car accident is crucial because, in most cases, the responsible driver can be held accountable for all losses incurred in the accident.

Most states follow fault rules, which means victims of car accidents can always sue the driver responsible. Some no-fault states require drivers to recover compensation for minor injuries from their own insurers but allow victims to make claims against the at-fault motorist when serious injuries occur–and head-on crashes often cause serious injuries – Forbes.

What Factors Affect a Head-On Collision Settlement?

The extent of legal compensation following a head-on collision plays a pivotal role in settlement negotiation. Various factors are taken into account by both parties involved:

  • Extent and Permanence of Injuries: The severity and lasting impact of the victim’s injuries.
  • Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: Whether the collision resulted in permanent disability or disfigurement.
  • Age of the Victim: The age of the victim at the time of the collision, can influence recovery time and future earning potential.
  • Occupation and Education: The victim’s occupation and level of education, affect potential future earnings.
  • Nature of Injuries: The type and severity of injuries sustained.
  • Impact on Enjoyment and Work: Whether the injuries hinder the victim’s ability to engage in activities they enjoy and return to work.

Settlements for head-on collisions also depend on the jurisdiction where the accident occurred and its determination of fault:

  • Contributory Negligence States: Victims may be barred from recovering damages if they are found to have contributed to the accident in any way.
  • Comparative Negligence States: Compensation for victims is reduced based on their percentage of fault for the accident.
  • Modified Comparative Negligence States: Victims’ damages are decreased by their percentage of fault, and they may be unable to recover damages if they were primarily at fault (more than 50%) for the accident.

Also Read: Post-Concussion Crash Settlement

Motor Vehicle Fatality Rate Statistics

  • In 2016, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recorded 37,461 fatalities resulting from 34,436 fatal motor vehicle crashes across the United States, averaging approximately 102 deaths per day.
  • In 2010, an estimated 5,419,000 crashes occurred, resulting in 30,296 fatalities and 2,239,000 injuries.
  • Tragically, around 2,000 children under the age of 16 lose their lives annually in traffic collisions.
  • Over the period from 1899 to 2013, there were a total of 3,613,732 reported motor vehicle fatalities in the United States.
  • While there had been a decline in the number of fatalities and the fatality rate relative to the total US population over the previous two decades, this trend reversed in 2015 and continued to rise in 2016 by 200%.
  • From 1979 to 2005, there was a 14.97% decrease in the number of deaths per year and a 35.46% decrease in deaths per capita.
  • Remarkably, the 32,479 traffic fatalities in 2011 were the lowest in 62 years, dating back to 1949.

Source: Wikipedia [3].

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FAQs

Can I negotiate the settlement offer from the insurance company?

Yes, settlement offers can often be negotiated. It’s advisable to have an attorney assist with negotiations to ensure you receive a fair and adequate settlement.

What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may need to rely on your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or pursue a personal injury lawsuit.

Do I need a lawyer to settle a head-on crash claim?

While it’s possible to settle without a lawyer, having legal representation can help ensure you receive a fair settlement and navigate the complexities of the legal process.

Can pre-existing conditions affect my head-on crash settlement?

Yes, pre-existing conditions can affect the settlement, but if the crash aggravated those conditions, you may still be entitled to compensation.

See all related personal injury and accident lawsuits our lawyers have covered.

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The Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and are currently accepting new legal challenges in all 50 states.

If you or a loved one was involved with these matters, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.

References:

1. https://florinroebig.com/car-accidents/types-and-injuries/head-on-collision/
2. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/auto-accident/head-on-collision/
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor_vehicle_fatality_rate_in_U.S._by_year

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