Wisconsin Head-On
Car Collision Attorney

What is a Head-On Collision?

Of all the types of car accidents, a head-on collision is one of the most frightening and destructive. When two vehicles collide front-to-front, the combined force of the impact can be immense. These crashes often result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. In Wisconsin, head-on collisions are a serious concern, especially on the many rural and two-lane highways that cross the state.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a head-on crash, you are likely going through an incredibly difficult time. You may be facing a long recovery, mounting medical bills, and the inability to work. The Wisconsin head-on car collision lawyers at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC are here to help. We have the experience and resources to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Why Head-On Collisions Are So Devastating

A head-on collision involves a tremendous amount of force. The energy of both vehicles moving toward each other is transferred to the occupants at the moment of impact. This is why these crashes are so much more dangerous than other types of accidents.

Even with modern safety features like airbags and seatbelts, the human body is not designed to withstand the forces of a head-on crash. The injuries sustained in these accidents are often severe and life-altering. They can require a lifetime of medical care and result in permanent disability.

Common Causes of Head-On Collisions in Wisconsin

Head-on collisions are almost always preventable. They typically happen when one driver makes a serious error and crosses the center line into oncoming traffic. Some of the most common causes of head-on crashes in Wisconsin include:

Distracted Driving

A driver who is texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise not paying attention can easily drift out of their lane. A few seconds of inattention is all it takes to cause a head-on collision. This is a growing problem on all Wisconsin roads, from busy city streets in La Crosse to rural highways in Monroe County.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time. An intoxicated driver may not realize they have crossed the center line or may be unable to correct their mistake in time to avoid a crash. Impaired driving is a leading cause of fatal head-on collisions.

Drowsy Driving

A fatigued driver can be just as dangerous as a drunk driver. A driver who falls asleep at the wheel will lose complete control of their vehicle, often leading to it crossing into the path of oncoming traffic. This is a particular concern for commercial truck drivers and people who drive long distances on highways like I-90 and I-94.

Reckless Driving and Unsafe Passing

Some drivers intentionally make dangerous maneuvers that lead to head-on crashes. This includes trying to pass another vehicle in a no-passing zone on a two-lane road or driving aggressively at high speeds. These reckless actions put everyone on the road at risk.

Common Injuries in Head-On Collisions

The injuries from a head-on collision are often catastrophic. Victims may require extensive medical treatment and may never fully recover. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The violent impact can cause the brain to strike the inside of the skull, leading to concussions, brain bleeds, and permanent brain damage.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, including paraplegia or quadriplegia.
• Broken Bones: Multiple and complex fractures are common in head-on crashes.
• Internal Injuries: The force of the impact can cause serious damage to internal organs, leading to internal bleeding and other life-threatening conditions.
• Wrongful Death: Sadly, many head-on collisions are fatal. In these cases, the surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim.

Who Is at Fault in a Wisconsin Head-On Collision?

In nearly all head-on collision cases, one driver is clearly at fault for crossing the center line. However, the at-fault driver’s insurance company will often try to shift the blame to avoid paying the claim. They might argue that you were also partially at fault, perhaps by speeding or not taking evasive action.

This is why it is so important to have an experienced Wisconsin head-on car collision lawyer on your side. Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to prove that the other driver was 100% responsible for the accident. This investigation may involve:

• Analyzing the police report and witness statements
• Hiring accident reconstruction experts to determine how the crash happened
• Obtaining data from the vehicles’ event data recorders (black boxes)
• Reviewing any available traffic or surveillance camera footage

Compensation for Your Injuries

If you were injured in a head-on collision, you are entitled to seek compensation for the full extent of your losses. This includes both economic and non-economic damages.

Economic Damages

These are the measurable financial losses you have suffered, such as:

• Past and future medical bills
• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
• Costs for physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Costs for in-home care and medical equipment

Non-Economic Damages

These are the non-financial losses that have a profound impact on your life, including:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability and disfigurement

How a Wisconsin Head-On Car Collision Attorney Can Help

After a devastating head-on collision, you need to focus on your physical and emotional recovery. Let the experienced attorneys at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC handle the legal battle for you. We have a proven track record of success in helping victims of serious car accidents get the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.

When you hire us, we will immediately go to work for you. We will:

• Handle all communications with the insurance companies.
• Investigate your accident to build the strongest possible case.
• Work with medical and financial experts to calculate the full value of your claim.
• Negotiate aggressively for a fair and just settlement.
• Take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to do what is right.

We represent clients throughout Wisconsin, including La Crosse, Eau Claire, and the surrounding counties. Contact us today at 608-784-4370 for a free, no-obligation consultation. You will not pay any attorney fees unless we win your case.