Head-on collisions are some of the most devastating types of motor vehicle wrecks. When vehicles collide head-on, the force of the crash may cause catastrophic and fatal injuries. Those who survive may suffer permanent disability and be haunted by the crash for years to come.
While no amount of compensation will change what you went through, state fault laws make it possible for you to demand the liable party pay. With help from a top-rated car accident lawyer in Las Vegas at H&P Law, you can complete an extensive investigation and uncover the identities of those responsible so all parties are held accountable for their negligent actions.
Continue reading to learn more about liability in head-on collisions and how to take action against them.
Head-On Collisions Can Happen in Many Ways
The aftermath of a head-on collision can be chaotic. Your personal injury lawyer will begin working tirelessly to determine the cause of the accident so we can hold all contributing parties accountable to the fullest extent of the law. The burden of proof in civil claims is based on a preponderance of the evidence, so do what you can to collect as much evidence at the accident scene as possible.
Negligent Driving
Negligent driving is known for being one of the top causes of head-on collisions. Any type of unsafe or dangerous driving could be considered negligence. Some examples of negligent driving that regularly result in head-on car accidents include:
- Driving over the speed limit
- Failure to stop at traffic lights or stop sign
- Making unlawful turns
- Driving while impaired
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Failure to check blind spots
- Driving while fatigued
- Following closely
- Distracted driving
Negligent drivers are often held accountable when they are found liable for causing head-on collisions. The driver that hit you head-on may face citations and criminal charges, particularly if they were under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident. With help from a knowledgeable car accident attorney, you can bring them to justice by pursuing a personal injury lawsuit in civil court.
Hazardous Roads
Negligent drivers are not the only cause of head-on collisions. In fact, head-on collisions can also happen when road conditions are dangerous. The parties responsible for keeping roads free and clear of debris and maintained at all times could be responsible if their duty of care failings for the cause of your accident. Some examples of such dangerous road conditions could include:
- Failure to install street signs and traffic lights
- Failure to install crosswalks and bicycle leads
- Failure to put up pedestrian crossing signs
- Failure to improve faded road markings
- Failure to replace missing street signs
- Failure to properly secure road construction work zones
- Failure to do due diligence when hiring government construction workers
- Failure to perform necessary safety inspections
- Failure to fill potholes in a timely manner
- Failure to address road safety concerns despite multiple complaints, collisions, or injuries at a particular intersection or roadway
Malfunctioning Parts
Head-on collisions can also happen when drivers are unable to prevent the collision due to defective or malfunctioning parts. We see this most often when steering columns and breaking systems fail. Drivers may not be able to slow down or avoid crashing into other motorists head-on when certain parts are malfunctioning. Your head-on collision attorney will intensively investigate the cause of your collision and determine who should be held accountable for your injuries and subsequent damages.
Several Parties Could Share Liability for Your Nevada Head-On Collision
Once we understand the cause of your head-on collision, we can identify the liable party. This is crucial, as most head-on collision claims can only be successful by filing a claim against the liable party’s insurance policy or bringing your case to trial. Here are some of the individuals and entities frequently named head-on collision lawsuits:
Government Agencies
Government agencies are typically responsible for roads being properly maintained and repaired. This might include the Nevada Department of Transportation, local municipalities, such as the city of Las Vegas, and government-contracted workers. In some instances, these parties may share responsibility for the injuries you endured.
Reckless Drivers
All motorists are assumed to understand the risks involved with operating or vehicle. Those who engage in irresponsible or reckless driving may therefore be considered negligent and held accountable for the victim’s injuries accordingly. If your head-on collision was caused by a team driver, you may have grounds for legal action against their parents or legal guardians.
Dram Shops
Local dram shops can also be held accountable for head-on collision injuries. Nevada dram shop liability laws hold bars, nightclubs, liquor stores, and other establishments that serve or sell alcohol accountable when they provide alcohol to someone who is already visibly intoxicated. These types of cases can be notoriously complex, so make sure you have a highly experienced dram shop liability attorney ready to guide you through the claims process.
Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturers
When auto parts malfunction or are defective, the responsible thing for dealerships and vehicle makers is to issue a recall. However, many fail to do so. Not only can motor vehicle dealerships be held accountable for parts malfunctions, but so can:
- Safety inspectors
- Auto parts designers
- Auto parts retailers
- Motor vehicle maintenance workers
- Company executives
- Other third parties
Consider All Legal Options for Financial Justice
The identity of the at-fault party will help determine which legal options are most likely to result in a favorable outcome. If you are filing a claim against a negligent driver, you may have the most success in filing a claim against their personal auto insurance policy. If you are going up against a large motor vehicle dealership or government agency, it may be in your best interests to retain the legal support of a knowledgeable car accident attorney who can advocate for your rights along the way.
Meet with Nevada’s Trial-Tested, Award-Winning Car Accident Law Firm Today
Multiple parties may share liability for your head-on collision. We must thoroughly investigate to ensure all parties who are partially at fault are brought to justice. Let H&P Law put our decades of legal experience to work for you and your family.
Are you ready to become an advocate for your right to maximum compensation? Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with an experienced Nevada car accident attorney as soon as today. Reach us by phone or through our quick contact form to get started.
