While head-on collisions are not the most common type of traffic accidents, they can cause catastrophic injuries or death. Alabama drivers can take precautions to reduce the risk of being involved in this kind of accident.
Why head-on collisions happen
Head-on collisions may happen because one vehicle has swerved or drifted into oncoming traffic or because one vehicle is traveling on the wrong side of the road. The latter may happen after a driver has misjudged the correct lane on a divided highway or off-ramp. For this reason, drivers should pay careful attention to markings to ensure that they are always going in the correct direction.
Preventing head-on collisions
Drivers need to make an effort to avoid ending up in the wrong lane themselves and to avoid other drivers who may be on the wrong side of the road. They should remain alert, and if they do see a driver coming toward them, they should steer into a clear area if they can, even if it is a ditch. Blowing the horn and flashing headlights may alert the other driver that they are on the wrong side of the road.
Actions to avoid
Drivers should also avoid certain actions that could lead to a head-on car accident, such as passing when there is not clear visibility or swerving to avoid an obstacle in the road. Speeding, driving while drowsy and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can also cause drivers to drift into the other lane.
Awareness of potential hazards, avoiding distractions and driving defensively are habits that can help prevent these and other types of motor vehicle accidents. If a driver is injured in an accident in which they are not at fault, they might be eligible to receive compensation that could cover medical expenses and other costs.