Most car accidents are generally minor. However, a head-on collision or frontal crash can be a different story. This type of crash can leave you with devastating injuries, property damage and a huge medical bill.
Most head-on collisions are caused by negligence. If you are involved in a head-on collision that is attributable to someone else’s actions, you need to pursue the liable party for damages as provided for by North Carolina car accident laws.
How do head-on collisions happen in the first place? Here are three major causes:
1. Driving while distracted
From operating a cell phone to grooming, eating, tuning the radio and chatting with your passengers – distractive activities can take your eyes and focus off the road. That’s all it takes to cause a wreck.
2. Drunk driving
Alcohol impairs the driver’s judgment, leads to loss of concentration and greatly impacts reaction times. All these can increase the likelihood of a catastrophic collision.
3. Speeding
Needless speeding is a safety risk for every road user. A driver who is moving at a dangerously high speed can easily violate basic traffic laws and crash into oncoming traffic.
What to do next
If you are involved in a head-on collision, you need to take the following steps to ensure your safety and protect your interests. Here are three things you need to do:
- Call the police. North Carolina laws require that you call the police following an accident that results in property damage in excess of $1,000, injury or death.
- Seek treatment. Even if you do not feel hurt, this is wise, since adrenaline can mask an injury.
- Learn more about your rights to claim compensation for your losses.
Any kind of car accident can lead to injury and property damage. Knowing your legal options and obligations can help you pursue damages following a car accident that is not your fault.