Pretty much no one sets out with the goal of being in a vehicle accident, especially something as serious a head-on collision. After all, this particular type of accident tends to be severe. Injuries and vehicle damage are often serious in head-on collisions. Fatalities are also more common in this type of vehicle accident.
Knowing the common causes of head-on collisions can help you stay safer on Florida roads. You’re better prepared to avoid a head-on collision and can help prevent you from being the driver responsible for causing one.
Common Causes of Head-On Collisions
If you’re not sure what a head-on collision is, this type of accident is precisely what the name implies. When two vehicles, traveling in opposite directions, make contact with the front ends, it’s considered a head-on collision.
These types of vehicle accidents are typically severe, usually because both drivers are traveling at relatively high speeds. Even colliding with another vehicle’s front end at 25 mph can result in significant damage.
If you’re wondering how many head-on collisions occur each year, the Department of Transportation estimates 5,248 occurred on the nation’s roads over 12 months. Head-on collisions also make the list of common types of vehicle accidents in Florida.
So, what are the common causes of head-on crashes? You’re probably not surprised to learn that distracted driving is at the top of the list. Even taking your eyes off of the road for a second can cause your vehicle to swerve into oncoming traffic.
Distracted driving is followed closely by impaired driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol, medications, or illegal substances can impair your judgment and limit reaction times. You even find it difficult to see if your vehicle is drifting into another traffic lane.
We should also mention driving under the influence is illegal in Florida and all other states. The penalties for a DUI (driving under the influence) charge can also be steep and range from monetary fines to potential jail time. Other common causes of head-on collisions include the following:
- Reckless driving, which includes tailgating (driving too closely behind a lead vehicle), speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and failing to obey all road rules like stopping at red lights.
- Inexperienced drivers may have difficulty controlling the vehicle and drift into oncoming traffic.
- New drivers may also not be completely familiar with all traffic laws like who has the right of way at stop signs.
- Driver fatigue. If you drift off while driving, your vehicle can drift into other traffic lanes. Even if you don’t fall asleep, fatigue can slow down reaction times. You may even be too tired to pay attention to stop signs and other traffic signals.
- Other common causes of head-on crashes can include the weather. Wet and slick roads can cause you to lose control of your vehicle, especially if you’re not used to driving in poor weather conditions.
- Mechanical issues with the vehicle like a tire blowout or faulty brakes can also send your car into the path of oncoming drivers.
Tips on Avoiding Head-On Collisions
Some tips are obvious. For example, don’t drink and drive. If you’re tired, don’t get behind the wheel. However, these tips aren’t always enough to keep you safe from another driver who may veer into your lane.
The National Safety Council has some recommendations on how you can limit your risk of being involved in a head-on collision. Known as the Four R’s, the simple steps can help you stay safe. The four R’s are as follows:
Read the Road
This means scanning the road in front of your vehicle and on the sides. Don’t start rubbernecking out your side windows, now you’re a distracted driver. Instead, a quick glance is usually enough to know if another vehicle is close to your right or left side.
By paying attention to your surroundings, particularly other drivers’ behaviors, you’re better prepared to take evasive action. Sometimes all you need is a second to avoid being involved in a head-on collision.
Stick to the Right Lane
This is common sense on two-lane highways. Regardless of the direction you’re traveling, you drive in the right lane. The left lane is for oncoming traffic and it’s where your vehicle doesn’t belong.
Some two-lane roads allow for passing. If you’re getting ready to pass a slower-moving vehicle, make sure the other lane is clear as far as you can see. Never try to pass in the oncoming traffic lane on a hill or curve.
Reduce Your Speed as Necessary
Yes, everyone always seems to be in a hurry regardless of where they’re going. However, there are times when you want to slow down. If you see a hazard on the road or notice another driver behaving erratically, take your foot off the gas.
If another vehicle swerves into your lane, you’re better prepared to stop or take other evasive actions to avoid a head-on collision.
Ride the Median
If you see an oncoming vehicle in your lane, don’t panic. You can have a slight panic attack after avoiding a potential accident, but this is the time to stay calm and rational no matter how difficult it may be in the moment. Your goal is to safely get out of the way. Sometimes, you can safely merge into another lane like if you’re traveling on a four-lane highway.
Sometimes, there isn’t another safe lane so take a look at the median or side of the road. Yes, this can make for a bumpy ride but it’s a better alternative to being stuck in the front end by an oncoming car.
Steps to Take After a Head-On Collision
Since head-on collisions tend to result in serious injuries, your primary concern is your health. Don’t worry about documenting the accident scene or talking to any witnesses. Let the authorities handle this; your focus should be on seeking immediate medical treatment.
Your next step is to contact a personal injury attorney. Chances are, your head-on collision meets the legal standards for filing a personal injury claim. Your attorney can handle your insurance claim while you focus on recovering from the head-on collision.
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