Addressing Head Injuries After a Head-On Crash in South Carolina

Head injuries are common after head-on collisions in South Carolina. Even at relatively low speeds, these kinds of impacts can shake or strike the head area with tremendous force. Sometimes, these catastrophic head injuries prove fatal. In other cases, victims suffer life-altering consequences – often becoming permanently disabled. Whether you suffered a head injury or you’re caring for a victim, it makes sense to review your legal options after this type of accident.

Head-On Collision Causes One Fatality in South Carolina 

In October of 2024, a serious head-on collision occurred in Greenville County – killing one victim and sending another two to the hospital. Authorities say that the crash occurred near Travelers Rest on Locust Hill Road. The accident seems to have happened near an intersection, but it is not clear which driver was at fault. Regardless, the driver of one vehicle died after the impact – and the two occupants of the other vehicle were hospitalized. This incident highlights how serious head-on collisions can be in South Carolina.

How Do Head Injuries Occur in Head-On Collisions? 

Head injuries may occur in various ways during head-on collisions. After an impact to the front of a vehicle, the occupant inside is generally jolted forward. This may cause them to strike their head on the steering wheel, dashboard, and other surfaces within the vehicle. These impacts are much more severe if the occupant is unrestrained, as they can be ejected out of the windshield.

Of course, modern vehicles mitigate these head injuries with airbags. Assuming that these airbags function correctly, the occupant should be shielded against impacts during head-on collisions. However, not all vehicles are created equal. Some airbags fail to inflate, while others cause severe head injuries themselves. Airbags can easily cause traumatic brain injuries and various facial injuries.

How Do I Pursue Compensation for Head Injuries After a Head-On Collision? 

You may require compensation for both economic and non-economic damages after a head-on collision. The first step is to calculate these damages, and a head injury can affect your life in complex ways. Economic damages include lost wages and medical expenses. Although these financial losses are fairly straightforward, it is important to consider the true cost of your head injuries – especially if your current career is no longer possible due to brain damage. Non-economic damages include PTSD, depression, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional distress, and more.

Can a Car Accident Lawyer in South Carolina Help Head Injury Victims? 

While only a medical professional can treat brain injury patients, a Charleston car accident lawyer may be able to assist with legal concerns. Reckless, negligent drivers often cause head-on collisions – and you may be able to hold them accountable through legal action. Although a lawsuit may seem daunting, you may be able to negotiate a settlement without going to court – and this can help cover medical expenses. To learn more about your legal options, schedule a consultation with Mickelsen & Dalton, LLC today.

Sources: 

wspa.com/news/local-news/head-on-collision-kills-one-in-greenville-co/

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9244609/#:~:text=Findings,at%2012%20months%20after%20injury.