Head-On Collision Lawyer in Massachusetts

Head-On Collisions in Massachusetts

A head-on collision, two vehicles traveling in opposite directions striking each other front-to-front, is one of the most catastrophic types of road accidents. The combined closing speed of the two vehicles dramatically multiplies the impact energy compared to a single-vehicle crash at the same speed. At highway speeds, head-on collisions are frequently fatal; at lower speeds, they still cause devastating injuries. When a driver crosses a center line, enters a one-way road against traffic, or drives the wrong way on a highway ramp, they are responsible for the catastrophic consequences. Attorney Jeffrey C. Lavey represents head-on collision victims and their families throughout Massachusetts.

Common Causes of Head-On Collisions

• Crossing the center line while distracted: using a phone, eating, or inattention
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs causing lane drift
• Drowsy or fatigued driving leading to loss of lane control
• Medical emergency: loss of consciousness or seizure while driving
• Attempting to pass in a no-passing zone and entering oncoming traffic
• Wrong-way driving on divided highways and one-way streets
• Vehicle mechanical failure causing loss of steering control

The Forces Involved in Head-On Collisions

The physics of a head-on collision make clear why they are so deadly. When two vehicles traveling toward each other at 40 mph each collide head-on, the impact energy is equivalent to hitting a stationary wall at approximately 80 mph. At these combined closing speeds, the deceleration forces transmitted to vehicle occupants overwhelm structural protections and cause injuries of maximal severity: traumatic brain injury, cervical spine fractures, aortic tears, multi-system organ injury, and death. Attorney Lavey works with the most experienced medical experts available to document the full nature and extent of these catastrophic injuries.

Who Is at Fault in a Head-On Collision

The driver who crossed the center line or entered opposing traffic is almost always at fault for a head-on collision. This driver violated a clear rule of the road and created the foreseeable risk of exactly the type of collision that resulted. In some cases, a defect in the roadway, a missing or obscured road sign, or a vehicle mechanical failure may contribute. Attorney Lavey investigates all contributing factors, driver behavior, roadway conditions, and vehicle condition, in every head-on collision case.

Pursuing Full Compensation After a Head-On Crash

Head-on collision cases frequently involve the highest damages in any personal injury context. The combination of catastrophic injuries, extended hospitalization, lengthy rehabilitation, permanent disability, and in fatal cases, wrongful death, creates damages that can reach into the millions of dollars. Attorney Lavey pursues the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage, any available underinsured motorist coverage, and in cases involving vehicle defects, manufacturer liability. He builds the most comprehensive damages case possible for every head-on collision client.

Frequently Asked Questions