When two vehicles traveling in opposite directions strike each other front-to-front, the combined force creates a devastating impact. Head-on collisions concentrate energy at the point of the collision, subjecting occupants to serious and often fatal injuries. If you were injured by a wrong-way driver in Bakersfield, you deserve justice with the help of a Bakersfield car accident lawyer.
How Do Head-On Collisions Happen in Bakersfield?
Head-on crashes typically occur when a vehicle crosses the centerline or median into oncoming traffic. The narrow two-lane roads surrounding Bakersfield are particularly dangerous, especially at night or during adverse weather conditions.
Common causes include:
- Driver Distraction: Using mobile phones, adjusting entertainment systems, or attending to passengers diverts attention from the road. Distracted drivers can easily depart from their lane and drift into oncoming traffic without realizing it.
- Intoxicated Driving: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, slow reaction time, and reduce coordination. Drunk drivers can easily go the wrong way on the road or fall asleep at the wheel, drifting into the next lane.
- Improper Passing Maneuvers: Sometimes, drivers the distance needed to safely overtake slower vehicles on two-lane roads. This increases the risk of high-speed head-on collisions.
- Fatigue-Related Errors: Drowsy driving mimics the effects of intoxication, causing momentary unconsciousness or microsleeps. A driver who falls asleep at the wheel, even for a few seconds, can easily cause a head-on collision.
- Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and dust storms common to the Central Valley reduce visibility and create slippery road surfaces that increase the risk of crossing into oncoming traffic.
What Injuries Are Common in Head-On Collisions?
Head-on collisions can be catastrophic, leading to severe injuries that often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. For example, the rapid deceleration can cause the brain to hit the inside of the skull, causing brain trauma. The force often causes multiple bone fractures, especially in the legs, arms, ribs, and face.
Other injuries may include:
- Collapsed lungs
- Internal organ damage
- Bruises and lacerations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
What Should You Do After a Head-On Crash in Bakersfield?
First, focus on your immediate safety. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries while remaining in your vehicle, unless staying in the car is dangerous. Call 911 immediately—head-on collisions almost always require emergency medical attention. When speaking with police, stick to facts without admitting fault. Even saying “I’m sorry” can be misinterpreted as accepting liability.
Document everything possible while at the scene. Take photos of vehicle positions, damage patterns, road conditions, and any relevant signage. Collect contact information from all witnesses, as their testimonies may prove vital for establishing what happened.
Seek medical attention even if you feel fine. Many serious injuries have delayed symptoms, and it is important to prevent complications before they arise. Finally, contact a Bakersfield personal injury lawyer to discuss your collision and explore your legal options.
Seek Justice with the Attorneys at Rodriguez & Associates
Head-on collisions rank among the most catastrophic accidents on Bakersfield roads, often causing life-altering injuries or fatalities. At Rodriguez & Associates, we recognize the immense physical, emotional, and financial toll these crashes take on victims and their families. We can help you hold the responsible party accountable for their negligence and your damages. For compassionate and powerful legal advocacy, contact us at (661) 777-7575 for a free consultation.