Head-on collisions are some of the deadliest accidents because they often involve high speeds and direct impacts. In theory, head-on collisions should be rare because drivers should be able to see what is coming up ahead. However, that is not necessarily the case. In fact, there are dozens of fatal head-on collisions across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. each year.
It may come as a surprise that most head-on collisions occur on rural roads. In fact, according to one government source, approximately 83% of all fatal head-on collisions occur on undivided, two-lane, rural roads. Another surprising fact is that only 4% of all fatal head-on collisions involve one vehicle passing another. The largest number of fatal head-on collisions, by far, occurs when both vehicles are going straight, and one drifts out of its lane and into the oncoming lane.
Of course, drivers who are paying attention do not drift out of their lane and into an oncoming lane of travel. Most often, drivers who do drift out of their lane are distracted by their phone or a passenger. In some cases, drivers get drowsy behind the wheel and struggle to stay awake, drifting in and out of their lane in the process. Anyone injured by a distracted or drowsy driver may be able to seek monetary compensation through a Maryland or Washington, D.C. personal injury lawsuit.
Maryland Head-On Collision Kills One, Injures Another
Earlier this month in California, Maryland, a fatal head-on collision claimed the life of one man and seriously injured another. According to one local news source covering the accident, the two vehicles collided on Route 4, south of Patuxent Beach Road. Evidently, a Toyota Corolla was traveling northbound when it drifted out of its lane and into the oncoming lane of traffic. The Toyota collided head-on with a Dodge Caravan, sending both cars spinning. The Dodge was then rear-ended by another vehicle.
The driver of the Corolla was pronounced dead at the scene, and the passenger in that car was flown to Prince George’s Shock Trauma, where he remains in stable condition. Police are conducting an investigation into the fatal accident to see if any more information comes to light regarding the cause of the accident.
Have You Been a Victim of a Head-On Collision?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a Maryland head-on car accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Compensation awards may consist of amounts for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and any pain and suffering you’ve endured as a result of the other driver’s negligence. The skilled personal injury attorneys at the Maryland law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have assisted thousands of clients in bringing cases against negligent parties. We understand all aspects of personal injury law and are ready to meet with you to discuss your case. Call 410-654-3600 today to set up a free consultation with a dedicated attorney at Lebowitz & Mzhen. Calling is free and will not result in any obligation to you unless we can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
More Blog Posts:
Determining Liability in Maryland Multi-Car Accidents, Maryland Car Accident Attorney Blog, published November 2, 2016.
Graduated Licensing Program Helps, but Teen Drivers Still a Major Risk on Maryland Roads, Maryland Car Accident Attorney Blog, published October 18, 2016.