Grand Rapids, MI Car Accident Injury Attorney

Personal Injury Lawyer for Victims of Head-On Collisions in Kent and Ottawa Counties

Many kinds of car accidents have the potential to be fatal, but head-on collisions are some of the most dangerous, with both drivers often traveling at high speeds and the impact occurring near where the driver is seated. In Michigan in recent years, head-on crashes have accounted for only 3 percent of total vehicle accidents, but almost 15 percent of fatalities. People who survive head-on collisions may face severe injuries and long recoveries, and they are sometimes unable to ever return to their quality of life before the accident.

If you have been injured in a head-on crash, or if a family member has lost his or her life, you are likely entitled to compensation that can cover your expenses and aid in your recovery. At John D. Tallman, PLC, we want to help you get all the compensation you can, and we have the background to make it possible, with almost 40 years of experience serving personal injury and wrongful death clients in Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas. We are invested in your case from start to finish, and we are only compensated if we achieve a settlement or verdict in your favor.

What Causes a Head-On Collision?

There can be many contributing factors in a head-on car crash, but some of the most common situations that lead to them include:

• A driver crossing the center line on a two-way road;
• A driver traveling the wrong direction on a one-way street;
• A driver making a dangerous or illegal passing maneuver;
• A driver turning left into oncoming traffic;
• A driver falling asleep at the wheel;
• Drunk driving.

Many head-on collisions and fatalities involve a motorist driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Lane drifting that can lead to a head-on collision is also a common occurrence when drivers are distracted by a cell phone or when they fall asleep at the wheel due to driver fatigue.

Common Injuries in a Head-On Crash

Some of the injuries that frequently result from head-on collisions include:

• Traumatic brain injuries: A driver's head may collide with the steering wheel or another part of the vehicle, resulting in a concussion or permanent brain damage that can affect mental functions.
• Facial injuries: The force of the impact and broken windshield glass can cause lacerations, scarring, and eye injuries.
• Broken bones: Drivers may suffer broken arms from bracing for impact, or crushed legs and other bones depending on the severity of the crash.
• Internal injuries: Broken ribs, pierced lungs, internal organ damage, and internal bleeding are also common in a head-on collision.
• Spinal injuries: Head-on crashes can cause fractured vertebrae or spinal cord damage potentially resulting in full or partial paralysis.

The potential for catastrophic injuries can increase when there is a major size disparity between the two vehicles, such as in accidents involving semi-trucks.

Pursuing Compensation With a Grand Rapids Personal Injury Lawyer

Regardless of the severity of your injury, Attorney John Tallman can help you pursue the compensation you are entitled to. After the accident, you should be sure to seek prompt medical treatment for all injuries, which helps you establish a record for insurance claims. You should also try to collect evidence from the accident including witnesses and pictures of the damages in case you need to establish the other driver's fault or prove you were not responsible.

You may be able to obtain some compensation through a Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claim with your own car insurance provider, but if you have severe, long-lasting injuries, PIP coverage may be insufficient. When another driver was at fault, we can help you pursue a liability claim against the responsible party for recovery for your excess economic damages and ongoing pain and suffering. We will continue to collect evidence that strengthens your claim, represent you in negotiations with the driver's attorney and insurance provider to reach a fair settlement, or fight for you in court to seek a favorable verdict.

Contact a Kent County Car Crash Attorney

Taking fast action after a head-on collision can give you the best chance at timely compensation for your injuries. If you have been hurt, contact us today at 616-361-8850 for a free consultation. We serve clients in Grand Rapids, Grand Haven, Holland, Muskegon, and throughout Kent County, Ottawa County, Muskegon County, and West Michigan.