According to a report from KSHB 41 Kansas City, a teenager was killed in a tragic head-on crash in Platte County. The victim, 18-year-old Emmelie Rodriguez of Kansas City, Kansas, was traveling northbound on Missouri 45 Highway. Her vehicle had a near head-on collision with a BMW being driven in the opposite direction by a 79-year-old Topeka man. That man and his passenger were both seriously injured in the crash. The head-on collision is still under a more comprehensive investigation by the Platte County Sheriff’s Department. Here, our Kansas City motor vehicle accident attorney provides a more detailed overview of the risks of head-on collisions.
Head-On Crashes are Extremely Dangerous
Head-on collisions are among the worst types of automobile accidents. When two vehicles collide front-to-front, the impact force is often severe. The risk is extreme if either of the two cars is travelling at a high rate of speed. These crashes often cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), internal organ injuries, and spinal cord damage. It is imperative that victims get immediate medical attention.
Common Causes of Head-On Collisions in Kansas and Missouri
Head-on collisions can happen for a wide variety of different reasons. Each crash should be carefully investigated to determine the cause(s). Some of the most common causes of head-on crashes in Kansas and Missouri include:
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a leading cause of head-on collisions. Even a moment of distraction can cause a vehicle to cross the centerline. It is especially dangerous on undivided roads or rural highways.
- Impaired Driving: Many head-on crashes involve intoxicated driving. It could be drunk driving, drugged driving, or a combination of both. Alcohol or drug use significantly affects a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
- Unsafe Passing: Some drivers attempt to pass slower vehicles in areas where it is unsafe and/or illegal to do so. Hills and curves are high-risk zones. If they do not properly calculate the distance or speed of oncoming traffic, a terrible head-on collision can occur. These types of crashes often happen on two-lane roads without a median barrier
- Wrong Way Driving: Some head-on collisions are caused by wrong-way driving. The underlying reason may be confusion, intoxication, or poor signage. It is especially dangerous on highways. Many wrong-way crashes happen at night.
Recovering Compensation for a Head-On Collision
Following a serious head-on crash, it is imperative that victims and families are able to secure the maximum available financial support. Unfortunately, insurance companies fight hard to pay out less. A top Kansas City car accident attorney can help. Depending on the nature and severity of your head-on crash, you may be able to recover for:
- Property loss, including vehicle damage;
- Emergency medical treatment;
- Hospital bills and other health care costs;
- Physical therapy and mental health support;
- Loss of current and future wages;
- Pain and suffering and mental distress;
- Long-term physical impairment; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
Speak to Our Kansas City Car Crash Lawyer Today
At House Law LLC, our Kansas City motor vehicle accident attorney is committed to protecting the rights of victims and their families. We handle even the most serious of wrecks, including head-on collision claims. Call us now or contact us online for a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment. With an office in Kansas City, our firm handles cases in both Missouri and Kansas.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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