How Dangerous Are Head-On Truck Collisions?
Posted on: July 7, 2023
Head-on collisions are one of the most dangerous types of motor vehicle accidents, and when a large truck is involved, the risk of severe injuries increases significantly. Truck accidents are often catastrophic because of the size discrepancy between the vehicles involved. A commercial vehicle’s size and weight can cause more damage than a smaller passenger vehicle.
Head-on collisions happen when the front parts of two vehicles driving in opposite directions hit each other. There will be a considerable force, but it can be much stronger when vehicles drive at higher speeds. The hoods might crumple and absorb some of that force, but this does not necessarily protect the drivers and passengers.
Head-on collisions happen for many of the same reasons as others, like texting and driving, driving under the influence, and reckless maneuvers, like improper passing and speeding. Drivers should never cross double yellow lines to pass; this common move can lead to head-on collisions. Other times, drivers get confused and go the wrong way down one-way streets.
Truck drivers could be more likely to be fatigued when driving because they work long shifts. Trucking laws stipulate that they must take regular rest breaks, but the drivers often stay longer to make more money or because their employers pressure them to meet quotas and deadlines.
What Types of Injuries Result From Head-On Collisions Involving Trucks?
Anyone who walks away unscathed from a head-on collision with a truck should consider themselves lucky because the chances of life-threatening ones are so high. Survivors might be diagnosed with a spinal cord injury that causes paralysis or a traumatic brain injury that impacts their function. There might also be limb amputations, punctured lungs, broken ribs, and severe lacerations or burns.
Those are examples of physical hardships, but head-on truck collisions can also be traumatic enough to cause significant mental distress. A survivor might develop post-traumatic stress disorder from the crash, and those symptoms can be tough to recover from.
Our Freehold Truck Accident Lawyers at Ellis Law Are Highly Experienced With Head-On Truck Collision Cases
If you were injured in a head-on truck accident, do not hesitate to contact Ellis Law. Our knowledgeable Freehold truck accident lawyers can fight on your behalf. For a free consultation, complete our online form or call us at 732-308-0200. Located in Freehold, New Jersey, we serve clients in Asbury Park, East Brunswick, Toms River, Middletown, Jersey City, Long Branch, Neptune, Hudson County, Union County, Essex County, Monmouth County, Marlboro, and Ocean County, as well as Brooklyn and New York City.
