If you or someone you love has been injured in a head-on crash in Ogden, Utah, Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers can help. We provide expert legal representation, ensuring victims receive the compensation they deserve while they recover. Call us today at (385) 402-8187 to schedule a free consultation with an Ogden head-on crash lawyer.
How Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Head-on Crash in Ogden, UT
A head-on crash can cause devastating injuries and can even result in death. At Parker & McConkie, we provide the legal expertise victims need to recover from these traumatic events.
Our Ogden car accident lawyers will:
- Investigate the cause of the head-on collision
- Work with accident reconstruction experts to build your case
- Collect evidence such as police reports, medical records, and witness accounts
- Identify all liable parties and insurance coverage
- Handle all communication with insurance adjusters
- Assess the full impact of your injuries and financial losses
- Negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation
- Take your case to trial if a fair settlement isn’t offered
We offer personalized attention and customized strategies, working tirelessly to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve. Reach out today for a free case review.
Factors That Lead to Head-on Collisions
Some of the leading factors that contribute to head-on collisions are:
- Distracted drivers: Distracted driving is one major reason, as drivers may fail to notice lane changes or oncoming traffic.
- DUIs: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs increases the likelihood of a crash.
- Poorly maintained roads: Poor road conditions can also play a role, especially when drivers are unprepared for sharp turns or steep inclines.
- Reckless driving: Speeding and reckless driving behaviors also contribute to head-on crashes. When drivers exceed the speed limit or make aggressive maneuvers, they reduce their reaction time, increasing the risk of a collision.
- Bad weather: Weather conditions, like rain or fog, reduce visibility and road traction, leading to crashes.
Awareness of these risks allows drivers to take steps to ensure their safety and that of others on the road, potentially reducing the frequency of such tragic incidents in Ogden.
What Kinds of Damages Are Available to Head-on Crash Victims?
Victims of head-on crashes are often entitled to recover a wide range of damages, depending on the severity of their injuries and the impact on their lives. These damages are generally divided into economic and non-economic categories.
Economic damages cover the financial losses associated with the accident, such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and diminished earning capacity. If the accident caused damage to your vehicle or other personal property, those costs can also be included in your claim.
Non-economic damages compensate for the more personal, intangible effects of the accident. These may include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium for close family members.
In rare cases where the at-fault driver acted with extreme recklessness or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. An experienced Ogden car accident lawyer can help calculate the full value of your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Injuries Often Seen in Head-on Accidents
Injuries resulting from head-on collisions are often severe and life-altering. The violent impact typically causes substantial bodily harm, often requiring long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Common injuries from head-on accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Can lead to cognitive impairments, memory loss, and emotional changes
- Spinal cord injuries: May result in partial or complete paralysis
- Fractures and broken bones: Often require surgery and extended recovery time
- Soft tissue injuries: Such as whiplash, strains, and sprains, which can cause persistent pain
- Internal bleeding: A serious condition that may not be immediately visible but requires urgent care
These injuries can lead to ongoing pain and suffering, impacting every area of a victim’s life.
Can I Still Recover Damages if I was Partially at Fault for the Accident?
Yes, under Utah law, you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident, thanks to the state’s modified comparative negligence rule. This rule allows an injured party to pursue compensation as long as they were less than 50% responsible for the crash.
However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 30% at fault and your total damages were $100,000, your recovery would be reduced by 30%, leaving you with $70,000.
If you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you are barred from recovering any damages at all. Because fault allocation can significantly impact the outcome of your case, it’s crucial to have a skilled personal injury attorney advocate on your behalf and ensure fault is fairly assigned.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Utah?
In Utah, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally four years from the date of the accident. This means that if you were injured in a head-on collision or any other type of incident, you have up to four years to initiate legal action against the at-fault party.
However, there are exceptions that can shorten this deadline. For example, if your claim is against a government entity, you must file a notice of claim within one year, and a lawsuit must be filed within two years.
Missing the applicable deadline can result in your case being dismissed and your right to compensation being permanently lost. That’s why it’s critical to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident to protect your legal rights and begin building your case.
Schedule a Consultation with an Ogden Head-On Crash Attorney
If you or a loved one has been involved in a head-on crash in Ogden, seek legal help promptly. Scheduling a consultation with an experienced lawyer can provide clarity and direction after such a traumatic event.
At Parker & McConkie, we offer free consultations to help victims understand their legal options and the potential for pursuing compensation. During this initial meeting, you can discuss your situation, ask questions, and learn how to move forward. Reach out today for your free consultation with an Ogden head-on crash attorney.
