If you were riding a bicycle and were struck by another vehicle, you understand just how devastating these accidents can be. Head-on collisions occur when your bicycle strikes the front end of another vehicle. Frequently, these accidents result in a person’s bicycle being severely damaged as well as injuries and fatalities resulting. Even though it might be clear who is responsible for these accidents, there are often numerous complications that arise in these accidents, which often makes it essential to obtain the assistance of a skilled bicycle accident attorney.
The Common Causes of Head-On Bicycle Accidents
Head-on collisions are most often the result of a driver who enters an opposing lane of traffic, drives the wrong direction, or fails to obey post traffic signs. Some of the most common reasons why these accidents occur include the following:
- Debris. Debris on the road can cause vehicle operators to suddenly swerve to avoid striking an object, which can result in the driver striking a bicyclist.
- Distracted driving. There are numerous factors that can distract a driver, which include talking on cell phones, texting, eating, or playing with the radio. Distracted drivers are unable to take their mind off of the road, which can cause them to fail to pay adequate attention to surrounding traffic which leads to accidents.
- Fatigued driving. When drivers become fatigued while driving, they can fall asleep or lose focus on surrounding traffic. These accidents can occur even if a vehicle operator is just slightly tired, which can result in deadly head-on accidents.
- Impaired driving. Drivers who operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs lose their ability to focus on the roads. Some substances can also cause drivers to become drowsy. All of these factors can cause drivers to end up in head-on collisions, which can be particularly dangerous for bicyclists.
- Losing control on curves. When drivers attempt to take turns too fast or for any reason lose control of their vehicle while rounding a curve, the driver can enter the wrong lane which can result in very serious head-on collisions.
- Passing on two-lane roads. Drivers who attempt to pass bicyclists on two-lane roads frequent fail to leave adequate time to safely pass which frequently can leave it difficult for other vehicle operators to see, which results in head-on collisions.
- Speeding and racing. Drivers who travel at excessive speeds beyond posted limits are at significant risk of losing control of their vehicle which can lead to very serious accidents.
- Trying to beat a light. If a driver turns left or tries to rush a red light, the driver can end up colliding with a bicyclist who has the right of way.
Types of Injuries Caused by Head-On Bicycle Accidents
Head-on bicycle collisions frequently cause very serious injuries and fatalities. The resulting damage can be even more severe if bicyclists fail to wear helmets. Because these accidents occur head-on, the resulting impact is often greater than other accidents. Additionally, drivers often do not have adequate time to slow down to soften the blow of the accident. Some of the most common injuries associated with head-on collisions include:
- Broken bones
- Fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Loss of limbs
- Neck injuries
- Soft-tissue injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries as well as other types of head injuries
Obtain the Services of a Skilled Accident Attorney
If you are injured in a bicycle accident, it is a wise idea to quickly obtain the assistance of a skilled attorney. Contact the office of Guy S. DiMartino, DC, JD, PA today for assistance with your case.
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