Of all the various types of car accidents in Oregon, among the most common are head-on collisions. Depending on the circumstances and the speeds at which both drivers are traveling, head-on crashes are also among those most likely to result in serious and potentially life-threatening injuries. The following details five common causes and steps you can take to protect yourself.
Head-On Crash in Portland Leaves Driver With Serious Personal Injuries
A recent head-on car accident in North Portland left one of the drivers involved with serious personal injuries. According to a January 29, 2021 report by KGW8 News, the crash happened at roughly 5:30 p.m., near the intersection of North Columbia Boulevard and Vancouver Avenue.
Witnesses told police that they saw a male suspect driving an SUV when he swerved into the opposing lane, crashing head-on into another vehicle. The driver then got out and ran from the scene, shooting a gun at nearby witnesses who tried to stop him. The injured driver was taken to a local hospital and is expected to recover from his injuries. Police are continuing to search for the at-fault driver responsible.
Crash reports from the Insurance Information Institute (III) indicate that head on collisions are one of the most common types of car accidents, responsible for more than 10 percent of all crashes. Close to 4,000 people are killed in head-on car accidents while tens of thousands of others suffer serious and potential disabling injuries. Among the most common causes include:
- Reckless driving behavior on the part of motorists engaged in illegal activities or attempting to evade the police;
- Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications;
- Driving while excessively tired and falling asleep behind the wheel;
- Driving in opposing lanes in an attempt to bypass traffic or other vehicles;
- Confusion on the part of tourists or anyone new to the area, who may not be aware of one way streets or traffic flow on major highways.
Protecting Yourself Against Head-On Car Accidents
The National Safety Council (NSC) warns that head-on car accidents are common on one-way streets, on rural roads, and on major highways, particularly near exit or entrance ramps. Steps you can take to reduce your risks include:
- Pay close attention to what is going on around you while behind the wheel, avoiding distractions such as talking on cell phones or texting;
- Keep to the right on major roads and interstates, reserving the left lane for passing;
- Be ready to pull over immediately if you hear sirens or see headlights approaching from the opposite direction in your lane;
- Use particular caution at night and when driving on weekends or holidays, which is when most head-on crashes occur.
Let Us Help You Today
When car accidents leave you suffering serious personal injuries, you can count on the Johnston Law Firm P.C. to help you hold those at-fault accountable. Call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland car accident attorneys online and request a consultation today.