Most Common Causes of Head-On Collisions And How To Keep Safe

Have you ever been in a head-on collision with another vehicle? It’s not too uncommon. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that there are more than 300,000 of these crashes every year. And while most times it doesn’t result in severe injury or death, most of those accidents happen because one driver was going the wrong way on a two-way street and crashed into an oncoming car. This type of accident is also called the “wrong way” for this very reason. 

What is a Head-on Collision, and What Are the Common Causes

A head-on collision is when two cars crash head-on into each other, almost always due to one driver swerving the wrong way. These collisions can be hazardous and even deadly since it’s difficult for drivers to apply their breaks in time. Some vehicles don’t include seat belts or airbags, so nothing protects them from slamming themselves against the dashboard or steering wheel. 

These types of accidents are usually caused by: 

• Drivers who have been drinking alcohol (even just a little bit) 
• Drowsy driving because staying awake becomes more challenging with age, especially if someone has had less sleep than they should have
• Speeding, which causes crashes that would not happen if people were driving slower
• Driving on the wrong side of the road or missing a turn that leads to head-on collisions 
• Driver inattention is when someone’s not paying attention and, as they’re about to make a left-hand turn, instead turns right because their mind was distracted by something else. This can happen if someone is talking with passengers in the car for too long or feels overwhelmed while driving (e.g., texting)

 It’s important to stay attentive behind the wheel at all times to avoid these types of head-on collisions. One way you could keep your eyes open would be through regular breaks such as taking ten seconds every hour off from focusing on driving, so you don’t get drowsy.

How To Avoid a Head-On Collision

Head-on collisions are the most dangerous type of collision in terms of outcome, as they are the most likely to end in a fatality. Thousands die every year in Los Angeles in this type of crash. If you get involved in a head-on collision, it would be of great help to get in touch with Los Angeles head-on collision truck accident attorneys for legal help. It’s essential to be aware of head-on collisions as they are the most dangerous type of collision when it comes to outcomes because there is a higher chance for fatality. There are simple things you can do to avoid a head-on collision. They include: 

• Keep a safe distance from vehicles in front of you. 
• Use your headlight to see better when visibility is low, or it’s nighttime. 
• Make sure tailgating isn’t an issue by paying attention and getting far enough away so that other drivers can pass if needed. 
• Be sure not to drink and drive. 
• Watch for pedestrians, bikes, or other vehicles that may come out of nowhere in your path.

Tips For Staying Safe On the Road 

There are many times where head-on collisions happen because one driver crosses into another lane without realizing it, and there’s nothing anyone could have done about it anyway – even if both were driving safely at the time! That said, head-on collisions are more likely to be avoided and less severe with these precautions taken seriously.

• Headlights: headlights are the best way to see in low-visibility situations. It also helps you identify other cars’ headlights and keep a safe distance from them.
• Distance: keeping enough space between your vehicle and others will give more time for drivers who need to pass, as well as giving yourself an escape route if there is an emergency 
• Tailgating: tailgating may cause road rage or accidents that could lead up to a head-on collision. The best thing is not following too close behind another car. 
• Speeding: Speeding is not only a serious safety concern, but it’s also illegal in many places.
• Distracted Driving: take your eyes off the road for more than two seconds, and this could lead up to head-on collisions. 
• Road Signs: be mindful of any warning signs or flares leading you out of an area with construction. These can signal head-on collision risks ahead. 

The best way to stay safe on the road is by staying alert and aware of your surroundings, not talking or texting while driving (even hands-free), obeying traffic laws, and practicing defensive driving. It’s also essential to wear a seatbelt at all times in both front seats. If you are ever involved in an accident that has resulted in head injuries, it’s crucial that you call 911 immediately for emergency services.