When two vehicles strike each other front-to-front, the results are often catastrophic. If you were injured in this type of crash, a Naperville car accident lawyer can help you seek damages.
Head-on crashes often occur due to negligence. A head–on collision lawyer in Naperville from Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C. can help you file a claim and hold the other driver financially accountable for your losses.
What a Naperville Head-On Collision Lawyer Can Do for Your Case
After an accident, a Naperville head-on collision lawyer can help by:
- Investigating the crash: A full investigation can uncover critical evidence that strengthens your claim and proves the other driver’s fault.
- Calculating your damages: Your attorney can tally all of your economic and non-economic losses so nothing is overlooked in your claim.
- Handling communication: Your lawyer can manage conversations with insurers so you are not pressured into giving damaging statements.
- Negotiating settlements: Your attorney can negotiate with insurers and push for a fair settlement.
- Taking the case to court: If settlement talks fail, your lawyer can file a lawsuit and argue your case in front of a judge or jury.
Types of Compensation Available After a Head-On Collision
Victims of head-on collisions in Illinois can pursue compensation for both financial and personal losses, such as:
- Medical expenses: You can recover the costs of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, prescriptions, physical therapy, and future medical treatment related to your injuries.
- Lost income: You can be compensated for wages you lost while you are unable to work due to your injuries.
- Reduced earning capacity: You can receive compensation if your injuries permanently limit the type or amount of work you can perform.
- Pain and suffering: You can seek damages for the physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life caused by the crash.
- Property damage: You can recover compensation to repair or replace your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
A Naperville personal injury lawyer can help make sure your payout covers your losses.
Why Insurance Companies Are Difficult After Head-On Collisions
Insurance companies are not neutral parties. Their goal is to pay out as little money as possible, even when liability seems clear. After a head-on crash, adjusters may:
- Dispute fault
- Downplay the severity of your injuries
- Claim your injuries were pre-existing
- Try to pressure you into a quick settlement
A head-on collision attorney in Naperville can counter these tactics and fight for your right to fair compensation.
How Long You Have to File a Claim in Illinois
Illinois law limits how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit after a head-on collision. In most cases, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the crash. If you miss this deadline, you will almost certainly lose your right to pursue compensation.
Certain exceptions may apply in rare situations, but waiting too long can seriously damage your case.
How Fault Is Determined After a Head-On Collision
Fault in a head-on collision usually comes down to which driver crossed into the wrong lane. However, proving this is not always simple. Insurance companies may dispute fault to avoid paying large claims. Evidence commonly used to establish fault includes:
- Police crash reports
- Eyewitness statements
- Traffic camera footage
- Vehicle damage analysis
- Skid mark measurements
- Cell phone records
A lawyer can gather evidence while you recover from the crash.
Common Causes of Head-On Collisions
Head-on crashes almost always trace back to dangerous behavior or serious driving mistakes. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers can easily drift into oncoming traffic when they look at phones, adjust GPS devices, eat, or otherwise take their eyes off the road.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal substances can slow reaction times and prevent drivers from staying in their lane.
- Fatigued driving: Exhausted drivers may have difficulty staying awake or controlling their vehicles, which can lead to a head-on collision.
- Improper passing: Attempting to pass on a two-lane road can result in misjudging the distance or speed of oncoming vehicles and cause a crash.
- Speeding: Driving at excessive speeds can reduce reaction time and increase the severity of a collision if a driver veers into oncoming traffic.
Serious Injuries Often Seen in Head-On Crashes
Head-on collisions are notorious for causing life-altering injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Internal organ damage
- Broken bones and complex fractures
- Severe burns
- Facial and dental injuries
Get Help from a Head-on Collision Attorney in Naperville
A head-on collision can instantly change your life. The injuries, financial strain, and emotional toll can feel overwhelming, but a Naperville head-on collision attorney from Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C. can guide you through the legal process and help you obtain a fair settlement.
With the right approach and strong legal guidance, you can secure the compensation you deserve and start rebuilding your life. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
