Head-on collisions are considered the most dangerous as these types of crashes are often fatal. A head-on crash typically occurs when one driver crosses a center lane or median and crashes into an approaching vehicle. According to Wikipedia, in 2005, head-on crashes accounted for only two percent of all accidents. However, these crashes accounted for 10 percent of all fatal accidents.
Head-on Collision Statistics
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatal Analysis Reporting System (FARS) reveal that 75 percent of these accidents between 1997 and 1999 occur on rural roads. These accidents also primarily occur on undivided two-lane roads. About 83 percent of head-on accidents occurred on rural, undivided roadways. Data indicates that only about 4.2 percent of all head-on crashes occurred when one driver was trying to pass another.
Some other common causes of head-on accidents in Rhode Island and Massachusetts include:
• Tire blowout
• Driving under the influence
• Loss of vehicle control
• Drowsy driving
• Distracted driving
Further information from FARS indicates that about 1.9 percent of head-on crashes occurred in construction zones. Between 1998 and 2008, the number of head-on accidents has dropped significantly. This is likely due to a number of different factors, such as the installation of more road medians and an increase in distracted driving penalties.
Unfortunately, there is not much data on head-on accidents as a result of wrong-way drivers. In 2012, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a study on these accidents and reported that about three percent of all auto accidents are wrong-way accidents. These accidents are typically head-on collisions that occur on highways, which means they are often fatal.
Some new measures have been put into place to prevent such accidents though, including additional signage, road markers and even lights that communicate to drivers that they are entering the wrong way.
Injuries in a Head-on Accident in RI or MA
As previously noted, head-on crashes are fatal collisions in Boston Massachusetts and in Providence RI can led to life-threatening injuries. Some common injuries in these types of collisions include:
• Head trauma
• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injury/paralysis
• Facial/dental damage
As these injuries may be life changing, victims in Rhode Island and Mass.will often experience mounting medical bills, lost wages due to an inability to work and mental anguish.
If you or someone you know has been hurt in a head-on accident in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. The best RI personal injury attorneys offer free consultations and can help you determine your best legal options.
David is also a hernia mesh attorney