Head-on collisions often result in the front halves of both vehicles crumpling. This exposes the occupants to multiple dangers, including shrapnel, debris, and injuries. Since head-on collisions are damaging and dangerous, the victim can file a lawsuit against the at-fault party to recover compensation. However, given that Alabama is a fault state, proving liability in a head-on collision in Alabama can be difficult.
At Morris Bart, we understand how difficult it can be to determine liability after a head-on collision caused by someone else in Alabama. Seeking legal assistance from our head-on collision lawyer lets you collect the relevant evidence that proves your claim and helps you hold the other party liable to recover maximum compensation.
How do Head-On Collisions Occur in Alabama?
Head-on crashes can occur in multiple ways, mainly when the other driver crosses the centerline or violates traffic laws. Some actions that may lead to head-on collisions in Alabama include the following:
- Driving in the wrong direction, primarily on a one-way street
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Passing illegally or improperly passing another vehicle
- Confused driving
- Drowsy driving
- Crossing over the center median on a divided roadway
Law enforcement usually issues citations to the drivers who cause head-on collisions; therefore, it is important for the defendant to obtain any tickets issued to the other driver as well as the crash report. These documents may help you and our car accident lawyer understand who the police officer believes caused the crash. In addition, having the traffic tickets helps strengthen your claim against the other party, especially if they are entirely responsible for the collision.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Who Can Be Liable for a Head-On Collision?
A head-on collision in Alabama might lead to devastating injuries, since vehicles are traveling toward each other, often at higher speeds. Certain injuries may cause extensive health issues throughout a victim’s life, and ongoing medical care and support can be costly. Therefore, it is essential to recover compensation from the at-fault party to cover medical treatment costs and other related expenses.
Based on the circumstances leading to a head-on collision, multiple parties could be involved and held liable for the crash. These include the driver, third parties, other drivers or pedestrians, government entities, or vehicle manufacturers.
The Driver
A negligent driver who violates traffic laws, crosses into oncoming traffic, or misreads road signs will be liable in a head-on collision in Alabama. For instance, if a driver was driving under the influence of alcohol on a two-lane road, weaved into oncoming traffic, and caused a head-on collision, the victim can hold the driver accountable for any damage caused. This is because the driver’s actions carelessly or recklessly led to the accident that resulted in injuries and other damages.
Unexpected Roadway Events
Sometimes, certain events may cause the other driver to drift into oncoming traffic, suggesting that the driver might not be accountable for your injuries. If they were the cause of the driver losing control of their car, these events may include the following:
- Pothole
- Tire blowout
- Swerving to avoid hitting a pedestrian or another vehicle
- A sudden medical emergency
- Other issues with the vehicle
Other Drivers or Pedestrian
If a driver swerves into oncoming traffic to avoid hitting another vehicle or pedestrian that unexpectedly entered their lane, the pedestrian or the driver of the other car will be at fault. Unfortunately, cases involving other drivers or pedestrians that led to or caused accidents are difficult to prove because they will likely have fled the scene. However, working with an experienced car accident lawyer at Morris Bart may help collect the relevant evidence that proves who and what actions led to the collision.
A Government Entity
Some head-on collisions happen due to poor roadway design and maintenance; this is primarily the case with left-turn and reversible lanes. A lack of a center median is another leading cause of head-on collisions in Alabama. In the event of a head-on crash, the government entity responsible for the roadway design and maintenance may be liable for the collision.
For example, if a government entity knew about a fading center median and did nothing to repaint it, it would be liable for a head-on collision resulting from the driver failing to see the paint in a turn lane. In addition, the government might be accountable if a lack of road signs made directions unclear, leading to the accident.
A Manufacturer
If defective vehicle parts or a tire blowout caused a head-on collision, the vehicle or tire manufacturer could be held accountable. For instance, a vehicle manufacturer is responsible for the crash if the driver navigates a turn when the power steering goes out. As a result, the victim can blame the manufacturer for a power steering failure.
What if I Was Partially at Fault in a Head-On Collision?
Alabama law has a legal standard for apparent contributory negligence for auto accidents, where the at-fault party cannot recover benefits from the other party. Therefore, if you were involved in a head-on collision and slightly contributed to the accident, Alabama law may bar you from seeking compensation from the other driver. This is why the defendants in a car accident lawsuit will provide any relevant evidence to prove that the other driver contributed to the collision that led to their injuries, even in a small way.
For example, if the driver swerves into oncoming traffic because a pedestrian walked onto the road and caused a head-on collision, the driver may not have to pay damages if they can prove that the pedestrian was responsible for the crash. Even if the motorist is at fault for not being alert to a crossing pedestrian, Alabama law will require the pedestrian to take responsibility for the damages.
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Contact a Head-On Collision Attorney at Morris Bart Today
At Morris Bart, we can help you determine the at-fault party after a head-on collision caused by another motorist and pursue full compensation. If you or your loved one was harmed in a head-on collision in Alabama, contact us to schedule a free consultation with our legal team today.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
