Who Is at Fault in a Car Accident Head-On Collision?

Colburn Law

Posted by Greg Colburn in Car Accidents on April 30, 2025

A car accident head-on collision is among the most severe types of crashes, often leading to life-altering injuries or fatalities. Determining fault in these cases can be complex, especially under Washington’s negligence laws. Establishing liability requires strong evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction.

At Colburn Law—Accident and Injury Lawyers, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a head-on collision can take on victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident head-on collision, our Washington Car Accident Attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Determining Fault and Liability Through Investigation

Fault in a head-on collision depends on the circumstances surrounding the crash. Washington follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that compensation may still be available even if both parties share some blame. An attorney may conduct an in-depth investigation to establish liability, analyzing police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction data.

Factors like road conditions, weather, and mechanical failures can all play a role in determining fault. An experienced attorney will carefully examine every detail to build a strong case.

Common Evidence in a Head-On Collision Case

Proving fault in a car accident head-on collision requires strong evidence. Key factors attorneys investigate include:

• Police report documenting the officer’s findings and potential traffic violations.
• Eyewitness testimonies provide insight into how the accident occurred.
• Surveillance or dashcam footage showing the collision in real-time.
• Skidmark analysis to determine speed and braking distance.
• Toxicology reports in cases where alcohol or drugs may have played a role.
• Cell phone records were used to assess whether distracted driving was a factor.
• Vehicle damage assessments can provide clues about impact angles and force distribution.
• Accident reconstruction expert analysis to determine probable cause and sequence of events.

What Causes Head-On Crashes?

A head-on crash may happen due to various negligent driving behaviors, including distracted driving, impaired driving, or improper lane changes. These accidents are often severe and can result in catastrophic consequences. Common causes include: 

Driving under the influence 

Alcohol or drugs impair a driver’s ability to stay in their lane, judge distances, or react to sudden changes on the road. This dangerous behavior significantly increases the likelihood of a collision and puts everyone on the road at risk. 

Drowsy driving 

Fatigue can cause drivers to lose focus, have slower reaction times, or even fall asleep at the wheel. This can result in vehicles drifting into opposing traffic or failing to respond to hazards quickly, leading to serious accidents. 

Wrong-way driving 

Entering a highway or street in the wrong direction is often caused by confusion, distraction, or impairment. These incidents can result in devastating head-on collisions, as vehicles traveling at high speeds cannot avoid the oncoming threat. 

Distracted driving 

Texting, using a phone, eating, or any activity that takes a driver’s attention off the road reduces reaction time and decision-making ability. Even a few seconds of distraction can distinguish between avoiding a collision and causing one. 

Improper passing 

Attempting to overtake another vehicle on a two-lane road without clear visibility of oncoming traffic is extremely dangerous. Misjudging the distance or speed of an approaching vehicle can result in catastrophic head-on collisions. 

Reckless driving 

Speeding, tailgating, or making aggressive maneuvers like weaving through traffic increases the chance of losing vehicle control. These actions heighten the risk for everyone on the road and are a leading cause of preventable head-on collisions.

Why Identifying the Responsible Party in a Head-On Collision Matters

Identifying the at-fault driver is crucial when filing an insurance claim or lawsuit. The responsible party’s insurer may be liable for damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In cases where both drivers share fault, compensation may be reduced based on each party’s percentage of responsibility.

In wrongful death situations, proving liability can be critical for surviving family members seeking justice and financial assistance through a wrongful death lawsuit.

What Injuries Can Happen in a Head-On Collision?

Head-on collisions frequently cause catastrophic injuries, such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage
• Fractured bones
• Internal organ damage
• Severe lacerations and burns
• Soft tissue injuries that may require extensive physical therapy

Due to the intense impact of a head-on collision in a car accident, victims often require extensive medical treatment. In severe cases, permanent disabilities may necessitate ongoing care, adaptive equipment, or home modifications to support daily living.

Common Injuries in Head-On Collisions

Injuries from a car accident head-on collision can range from mild to life-threatening, often requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, or long-term care. Some of the most commonly reported injuries include:

• Whiplash: Neck strain due to sudden, forceful movement.
• Broken ribs and chest injuries: Caused by seatbelt pressure or impact with the steering wheel.
• Pelvic fractures: Common in high-speed crashes.
• Lacerations and contusions: Due to shattered glass or debris.
• Leg and knee injuries: Impact force can result in ligament tears and fractures.
• Burn injuries: If a vehicle catches fire, victims may suffer severe burns requiring skin grafts.

Car Accident Head Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are one of the most severe outcomes of head-on collisions. These injuries can vary widely, from mild concussions to debilitating brain damage, often leading to cognitive and physical impairments. Common symptoms of a TBI include loss of consciousness, persistent headaches, memory issues, dizziness, confusion, mood swings, difficulty focusing or processing information, nausea, blurred vision, fatigue, sensitivity to light or sound, trouble sleeping, difficulty walking, slurred speech, and, in severe cases, seizures.

Should I Hire an Attorney for My Head-On Collision Claim?

Seeking legal representation may significantly impact the outcome of your case. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, leaving victims with insufficient compensation. A car accident attorney can negotiate with insurers on your behalf, gather and present compelling evidence, calculate the full extent of your damages, represent you in court if necessary, work with medical experts to determine long-term care needs, and ensure deadlines for legal filings are met.

Navigating an insurance claim alone can be tricky since insurers may attempt to limit payouts, shift responsibilities, or undervalue damages. Experienced legal representation can help ensure that accident victims receive fair, timely, and full compensation for their losses.

Contact Us

Victims of head-on collision car accidents deserve strong and dedicated legal representation to help them navigate the challenges ahead. At Colburn Law—Accident and Injury Lawyers, we are committed to fighting for the rights of accident victims across Washington, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve. From medical expenses to lost wages and emotional distress, we provide compassionate support and aggressive advocacy every step of the way. Contact us today at 206-919-3215 for a free consultation.

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