Who Pays If I Am Hurt in a Head-On Car Collision?

 Posted on March 27, 2025 in Motor Vehicle Accidents

On March 23rd, 2025, a Chevrolet truck headed westbound in the eastbound lanes of I-290 in Hillside caused a multiple-vehicle crash involving three other vehicles. One man was killed, another had non-life-threatening injuries, and the wrong-way driver suffered life-threatening injuries. Only one driver was not hurt in the car accident. 

If you are injured in a head-on collision, you could be entitled to compensation. Our experienced Barrington, IL car accident lawyer can evaluate your accident and explain your legal options.

Why Are Head-On Collisions Dangerous?

Head-on collisions often produce serious injuries. In 2023, there were 2,682 head-on crashes in Illinois. Of those accidents, 138 resulted in deaths, 1,242 caused injuries, and 321 caused incapacitating injuries.

Without getting too deeply into physics, the impact forces when two moving vehicles hit front-to-front are greater than in most other types of accidents. For example, if both cars are traveling at 70 mph, the force when they hit head-on combines those speeds, making it like hitting a stationary object at 140 mph.

Why Do Head-On Crashes Happen?

Most head-on collisions happen because of negligent driving mistakes, such as:

• Driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or fatigue

• Failing to yield the right of way

• Distracted driving

• Wrong-way driving due to confusion, poor signage, or negligent errors like those listed above

• Trying to pass another vehicle illegally

In many head-on crashes, it is often clear who is at fault. In others, an investigation must be conducted. In Illinois, you can seek compensation from other at-fault parties as long as you are less than 50 percent responsible for causing your accident. However, the amount of compensation you might collect is reduced by your percentage of fault.

Why Do I Need a Lawyer After a Head-On Collision?

Injuries in these crashes are often severe. You may need extensive medical treatments and a long time away from work. Your car may be totaled. You might also be dealing with different forms of mental and emotional pain and suffering. These economic and non-economic damages can seriously add up.

The more your case is worth, the harder you will probably have to fight the insurance company to get paid. Insurers regularly use underhanded tactics to keep their bottom line intact instead of paying claims fairly. Your lawyer will investigate your accident and find supporting evidence. We will calculate your damages and then negotiate with the liable insurance company to reach a reasonable settlement. If negotiations do not work and you need to take your claims to court, we will represent you in your trial. Our goal is to see you collect as much compensation as you deserve.

Discuss Your Case With a Skilled Barrington, IL Car Accident Attorney

When a negligent driver injures you, a dedicated Barrington, IL personal injury lawyer from Lucas Law will fight aggressively to protect your best interests. Contact us online or call 847-381-8700 today to arrange your complimentary consultation.