All vehicle collisions can have severe and lasting consequences for everyone involved. However, front-end, also called head-on crashes, can be devastating, leaving those involved with severe injuries causing permanent disabilities, and in the worst cases, can result in fatalities.
For victims, navigating the recovery claims process in the aftermath of a catastrophic crash can feel overwhelming. A hard-working vehicle wreck attorney experienced with front-end car accidents in Bothell could help you through the procedure, providing sound legal advice and guidance to reach a favorable outcome.
The Dangers of Head-On Car Crashes
Head-on car crashes can be the most devastating and deadly type because of the increased impact caused by two cars heading in the opposite direction. The sheer force from the amount of kinetic energy released on impact makes them a primary cause of fatal crashes. While the car’s hoods may absorb some of the force, the collisions are often severe, leaving those involved with catastrophic consequences and the ability to change their lives.
The Common Causes
Some of the common causes of front-end car crashes in Bothell include the following:
- Poor weather causing low visibility
- Fatigued driving can cause motorists to fall asleep at the wheel
- Driver negligence and ignoring traffic rules, signs, and warnings
- Driver distractions causing to deviate from their lane unknowingly
- Motorist confusion and heading the wrong way on ramps entering highways
- Speeding and reckless driving increases the risk of losing control of vehicles
- Impaired drivers swerving from their lane or heading the wrong way on highways
- Dangerous overtaking technique causing the driver to cross lanes and collide head-on with traffic traveling in the opposite direction
Severe injuries such as spinal cord damage can occur, causing permanent disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, traumatic amputations, and wrongful death. A Bothell attorney could thoroughly investigate the front-end car wreck to collect the crucial evidence to establish fault, which is essential for winning the maximum award for damages.
Pure Comparative Fault
State personal injury laws follow the pure comparative fault doctrine. Under the Revised Code of Washington § 4.22.005, sharing a percentage of liability will not bar recovery of damages, even if the court determines the plaintiff shares more fault than the defendant. However, the court will reduce the settlement by the person’s percentage of fault.
That means if the total damages are $100,000 and the jury finds the plaintiff is 60 percent liable, the maximum compensation amount they can collect is $40,000. There is also a statute limiting the time to file the lawsuit to three years, and missing the deadline means losing eligibility to recover damages. After reviewing the case, a lawyer knowledgeable about Bothell front-end vehicle collisions can answer specific questions about the process and applicable statutes.
Recoverable Damages
Recoverable damages after head-on collisions include:
- The cost of medical care
- Lost pay and benefits
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
After establishing fault, the court may award compensation for out-of-pocket monetary losses and non-monetary damages.
Meet With a Bothell Attorney About Front-End Car Crashes
If another driver’s negligence caused you or your loved ones to sustain severe injuries in a head-on car crash, you must hold them legally and financially responsible. The expenses related to severe crashes can have devastating effects on your physical, psychological, emotional, and financial health and well-being.
Reaching out to a compassionate lawyer at Libbey Law Offices, LLC, experienced with handling cases resulting from front-end car accidents in Bothell, can help you protect your interest and recover a fair settlement for your damages and losses. Call today to schedule an appointment and review your case later this week.