Car Accidents in WA

Vancouver Head-On Collision Lawyers

We’re here to help when you’re injured in a car accident in Washington State and Oregon

Car accidents are always frightening, but head-on collisions are among the most dangerous and deadly types of crashes on the road. When two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide front-to-front, the impact is often catastrophic. Victims of head-on crashes may suffer severe, life-changing injuries or, in the worst cases, lose their lives. At Philbrook Law, Accident and Injury Lawyers, we help victims and their families seek justice after head-on collisions throughout Washington and Oregon. If you or a loved one has been hurt in one of these devastating accidents, our experienced legal team is here to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

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What is a head-on collision?

A head-on collision happens when the front ends of two vehicles hit each other while traveling toward each other. Because both vehicles are usually moving at the time of impact, the combined force is often enormous. For example, when both vehicles are moving toward each other, the closing speed is very high—often doubling the energy of the impact compared to a single-vehicle crash. This explains why these crashes often lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

Even though head-on collisions are less common than other types of accidents, like rear-end or side-impact crashes, they account for a disproportionate number of severe injuries and deaths. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), head-on collisions accounted for roughly 10% of fatal crashes in the United States in recent years.

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What are some common causes of head-on collisions?

It’s important to understand how head-on crashes can happen, as most of them are preventable. Here are some of the leading causes we see here in Washington and Oregon:

  • Distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of accidents across the country. When a driver is texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or even daydreaming, they can easily drift out of their lane and into oncoming traffic, causing a head-on collision.
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is extremely dangerous and often leads to tragic head-on crashes. Impaired drivers may cross the center line, enter the highway in the wrong direction, fail to stay within their lane, or misjudge distances and speed.
  • A fatigued driver’s reaction time is slower, and their judgment is impaired. In some cases, drowsy drivers actually fall asleep at the wheel, veer into oncoming traffic, and cause deadly head-on collisions.
  • Snow, ice, heavy rain, or fog can make it hard to stay in your lane. Slick roads can cause vehicles to slide across the centerline, especially if drivers are speeding or not paying attention to conditions.
  • On rural or two-lane highways, some drivers may attempt dangerous passes, misjudging the speed or distance of oncoming traffic. These risky maneuvers can cause head-on crashes.
  • Drivers may enter highways or one-way streets going the wrong direction due to confusion, intoxication, or poor signage. Wrong-way driving is a serious hazard, especially on high-speed freeways.

No matter how your collision happened, the Vancouver car accident lawyers at Philbrook Law, Accident and Injury Lawyers are here to help.

What are typical injuries in a Vancouver head-on collision?

Because of the intense forces involved, injuries from head-on collisions tend to be severe. You may be facing long hospital stays, multiple surgeries, and extensive rehabilitation. Common injuries from head-on collisions include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), like concussions, bleeding on the brain, and long-term cognitive issues.
  • Spinal cord injuries, including partial or complete paralysis.
  • Fractures and broken bones in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
  • Internal organ damage, broken ribs, and punctured lungs.
  • Herniated discs, severe whiplash, and chronic pain.
  • Broken jaws, facial injuries, dental damage, and scarring.
  • Severe crush injuries may result in amputations.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

Sadly, many head-on collisions are fatal. Families who lose a loved one face not only emotional devastation but also financial struggles. In these tragic situations, wrongful death claims can help surviving family members seek compensation.

What should I do after a head-on collision in Vancouver?

If you’ve been involved in a head-on collision, taking the following steps can help protect your health and your legal rights.

  • Always seek medical help immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or brain injuries, may not show symptoms right away.
  • Call 911 to report the accident. The police will document the crash scene, gather statements, and file an official report, which will be important for your insurance and legal claims.
  • Gather evidence. If it’s safe to do so, take pictures of the vehicle damage, the accident scene, skid marks or road debris, weather conditions, and any visible injuries. Also, get the contact information of any witnesses.
  • Report the accident to your insurer, but avoid giving any detailed statements before speaking with an attorney.
  • Consult with our Vancouver head-on collision attorneys. These types of accidents often involve serious injuries, complicated insurance claims, and questions of fault. Our experienced lawyers can protect your rights from the start.
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How do fault and liability work in head-on collisions?

One of the most important parts of a car accident claim is determining who was at fault. In most head-on collisions, one driver clearly crossed into the other lane. But sometimes the situation can be more complicated.

Washington and Oregon follow the rule of comparative negligence, meaning more than one party may share fault for the accident (Washington uses a pure comparative negligence system, while Oregon bars recovery if you are more than 50% at fault). However, even if you’re partially at fault, you may still be able to collect compensation. Your award would just be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found to be 10% at fault for the accident and awarded $100,000, you would receive $90,000. If the other driver was 100% at fault, you could receive full compensation.

Fault may be assigned based on evidence like police reports, witness statements, accident scene photos, vehicle damage analysis, and expert accident reconstruction.

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How can your Vancouver head-on collision lawyers help with my case?

The aftermath of a head-on collision can be overwhelming. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or shift the blame onto you. Having a skilled attorney on your side can make all the difference. At Philbrook Law, Accident and Injury Lawyers, we handle every aspect of your case:

  • We conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working with experts to reconstruct the accident and prove who was at fault.
  • Insurance adjusters often attempt to offer quick settlements that won’t cover your full losses. We negotiate aggressively to make sure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
  • We calculate the full value of your claim, including medical expenses (past, present, and future), lost wages and reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, rehabilitation and long-term care, property damage, and loss of enjoyment of life.
  • If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’re ready to take your case to court and fight for you at trial.

How much is my Vancouver head-on collision worth?

After being injured in a head-on collision, you may be facing significant financial burdens. With the help of our legal team, you may be able to recover compensation for the following:

  • Emergency room visits and hospital stays
  • Surgeries and follow-up care
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation
  • Prescription medications
  • Lost wages from time off work
  • Future loss of earning capacity
  • Permanent disability
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional trauma
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of consortium (for spouses or partners)

If you’ve lost a loved one in a head-on collision, a wrongful death claim may provide compensation for:

  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Loss of financial support
  • Loss of companionship and emotional support

How long do I have to file a head-on collision accident claim?

Both Washington and Oregon have unique laws that apply to car accident claims.

  • Washington State: The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically three years from the date of the accident.
  • Oregon: The statute of limitations is usually two years for personal injury claims.

In both states, uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can provide an important source of compensation if the at-fault driver lacks enough insurance. We can review your policy and explore all of the available options.

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Why choose Philbrook Law?

At Philbrook Law, Accident and Injury Lawyers, we understand how devastating head-on collisions can be. We’ve helped countless accident victims across Vancouver, WA, Southwest Washington, and Oregon recover the compensation they need to move forward. When you hire us, you get:

  • Compassionate, personalized attention
  • Aggressive legal advocacy
  • Skilled negotiation with insurance companies
  • Thorough investigation and evidence gathering
  • No fees unless we win your case
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Do you have a Vancouver head-on collision accident lawyer near me?

Philbrook Law has locations in Vancouver, Battle Ground and Portland. We serve clients in the greater Portland area, and throughout Oregon and Washington. Rest assured, however, that if you are critically injured and unable to come to us, we can travel to visit you in the hospital or rehabilitation center. We also offer virtual conferences and telephone consultations.

Vancouver head-on collision accident lawyers on your side

If you or a loved one has been injured in a head-on collision, don’t wait to get legal help. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Philbrook Law, Accident and Injury Lawyers is ready to stand by your side and fight for your rights. To schedule an appointment with an experienced lawyer, call our offices today. You can also complete our contact form. We handle car accidents on a contingency fee basis. We proudly serve clients throughout Oregon and Washington.