Mississippi Car accident head on collision

Jackson Head-On Collision Accident Lawyer

Compassionate representation for victims of devastating crashes

A head-on collision occurs when two vehicles collide front-to-front. Typically, this type of crash happens when one car crosses the center line into oncoming traffic, but this isn’t the only way these devastating accidents occur.

There are several major highways and interstates, such as I-55 and I-20, that contribute to heavy traffic flow and increased collision risks in Jackson, Mississippi. Other highly traveled routes include State Street, Highway 80, and Lakeland Drive. If you or a loved one has been injured in a head-on crash on any of these busy roads, or anywhere in the Jackson area, contact Merkel & Cocke, P.A. today. Our Jackson car accident lawyers can help you understand your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

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What causes head-on crashes?

Crashes took the lives of 40,901 people in the U.S. in 2023, and unfortunately, Mississippi had one of the highest fatality rates in the country. Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of crashes, often resulting in severe injuries or death. They may occur due to preventable factors such as:

  • Distracted driving: When a driver takes their eyes off the road, even for just a few seconds, due to texting, talking, eating, or adjusting navigation, they can drift into the wrong lane.
  • Drunk or impaired driving: Being under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication can affect a driver’s judgment and cause them to drive into oncoming traffic.
  • Drowsy driving: When a driver is tired, they may fall asleep behind the wheel. Fatigued driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence and is known to lead to lane drift.
  • Reckless driving: This can include improper passing, tailgating, weaving between lanes, speeding, and more, and can result in head-on collisions.
  • Wrong-way driving: When a driver enters a highway via an exit ramp, head-on collisions can occur.
  • Weather conditions: Rain, fog, ice, snow, or poor visibility can make it more difficult to see oncoming traffic and make it more likely that a driver will lose control of their vehicle.

Can a third party cause a head-on car accident?

Yes, a third party can cause a head-on accident. Liability can extend beyond the other driver to other people, companies, and organizations.

Potential third parties may include:

  • An employer. If an employer fails to act with proper care – such as when hiring, enforcing safety policies, or supervising its employees – and this negligence leads to the collision, the employer may be liable.
  • Vehicle manufacturers. If manufacturer errors, such as brake failure or steering defects, contributed to the crash, a manufacturer could be held liable.
  • Government entities. Sometimes, a local or state government agency, like the Mississippi Department of Transportation, can become a third party if, for example, a road defect contributed to the accident. However, claims against government entities are subject to the Mississippi Tort Claims Act, which imposes specific notice requirements and limitations.
  • Bars or establishments. A seller of alcohol may be held liable under Mississippi’s dram shop law if it knowingly sold alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person or a minor who later caused the crash.

Every car accident is different. An experienced Mississippi car accident attorney can help you identify liable parties in your unique case.

What injuries can be sustained in a head-on car accident?

Injuries from a head-on collision vary and often result in claims for economic and non-economic damages.

Injuries

Understanding the different types of injuries from head-on collisions is important for both victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been in a car accident, seek medical care as soon as possible. Identifying injuries early means that medical treatment can start sooner. Common injuries after a head-on collision include:

Damages

It’s impossible to determine the exact amount of damages available in a head-on collision case without all the facts. However, typically, victims may be able to recover compensation in the following categories:

  • Economic damages: Personal injury cases often allow recovery for your medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, prescription charges, property damage, lost income, and future earning capacity. Most of the time, the more serious the injury, the higher the value of your economic damages.
  • Non-economic damages: In addition to economic damages, head-on collisions may result in pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and, in some cases, the loss of consortium.
  • Wrongful death: If a head-on collision results in a fatality, damages may include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of society and companionship, and other recoverable damages allowed under Mississippi wrongful death law.

What is the average settlement for a head-on collision in Jackson?

There is no exact average formula to determine a settlement amount for a head-on collision in Jackson. While damage amounts vary, an experienced car accident attorney can help you better understand what to expect in your particular case. Factors that affect the settlement amount a party might recover include:

  • If injuries are temporary or permanent
  • The total amount of medical expenses
  • The insurance policy limits
  • The percentages of fault
  • Whether the case settles or goes to trial

To learn more about settlement amounts in head-on collisions in Mississippi, contact a Jackson car accident attorney who can provide a more accurate estimate after reviewing your specific case.

How to get compensation for a head-on collision in Jackson

To receive compensation for a head-on collision in Jackson, there are typically two routes: third-party auto insurance claims and lawsuits.

Third-party auto insurance claims

Most car accident cases begin with an insurance claim against the at-fault driver. The at-fault driver’s insurer will investigate the crash and evaluate the claim. Oftentimes, the two sides will dispute liability. Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts, which is where a car accident attorney can help. Legal representation can help you respond to low settlement offers, policy limit issues, and allegations of shared fault.

Lawsuits

If a case doesn’t settle, you may want to file a personal injury lawsuit. In most Mississippi car accident cases, you generally have three years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. Your attorney can help you timely file your claim and guide you through the litigation process.

What steps should you take after a head-on crash in Jackson, MS?

After a head-on collision, your health should be your first priority. Once you, and everyone else involved, are safe and receiving medical care, you may also want to begin protecting your potential claim. Consider the following steps:

  • Seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries can have delayed symptoms.
  • Document the crash scene by taking notes and snapping photos of the vehicles, any people involved, and road conditions.
  • Exchange information, including contact and insurance details with the other driver.
  • Contact an attorney as soon as possible.

Call a Jackson head-on collision attorney to discuss your rights

After a head-on crash, the attorneys at Merkel & Cocke can help. From the first meeting, we listen carefully to your story. We’re committed to our clients. For over 40 years, we’ve advocated for accident victims and their families. As one of the largest plaintiff personal injury law firms in Mississippi, we have the resources and experience to handle complex cases. If you or a loved one has been injured, reach out to Merkel & Cocke for help. Acting quickly can help preserve evidence and strengthen your claim. Get in touch today.