Atlanta Head-On Collision Accident Lawyer

Head-on collisions are among the most devastating types of car accidents anyone can get involved in and often result to fatalities. These crashes often result in catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and broken bones, in many situations, head-on collisions lead to fatality. In this situation, an experienced head-on collision accident lawyer can help you get justice and compensation according to Georgia law. 

The result for victims is overwhelming medical bills, lost income, vehicle replacement costs, and profound emotional trauma. If you’re dealing with the event of a head-on collision, our Atlanta head-on collision accident lawyer is here to help you seek justice and recovery.

Usually, people who survive head-on collision struggle to deal with serious injuries and complex insurance claims in Georgia. Insurance companies may push for a quick, lowball settlement that fails to cover your long-term needs. Meanwhile, critical evidence, such as skid marks or witness accounts, can vanish, making it harder to prove fault and secure fair compensation. Without skilled legal representation, you risk being shortchanged when you’re most vulnerable.

Our Head-On Collision Accident attorney is committed to fighting for victims across Georgia. With deep expertise in Georgia traffic laws and extensive experience handling head-on collisions and other severe car accidents, we advocate tirelessly for your rights. From collecting vital evidence and negotiating with insurers to representing you in court if needed, we manage every detail of your case, allowing you to focus on healing.

Led by Matt Wetherington, our head-on collision attorneys are dedicated to securing maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and ongoing care. Don’t let insurance companies control your future. Contact our Head-On Collision Accident Lawyer today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice and financial recovery. Call us at (404) 888-4444 or fill out our quick online form for free case evaluation.

What is a Head-On Collision Car Accident?

A head-on collision is a type of motor vehicle accident where the front of one vehicle directly impacts the front of another vehicle moving in the opposite direction. These crashes typically occur on two-lane roads, highways, or interstates when a vehicle crosses the centerline or median, entering oncoming traffic. Due to the high-impact nature of these collisions, they account for approximately 10% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S., despite comprising only 2% of crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Head-on collisions often result in catastrophic outcomes, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, fractures, and internal organ damage. Wetherington Law Firm specializes in representing victims of such accidents, pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering through personal injury lawsuits. A head-on collision accident lawyer can help victims secure compensation for their injuries and damages. 

What are the Causes of Head-On Collision Car Accidents in Georgia?

Head-on collisions are frequently caused by driver error, but environmental and vehicle-related factors also play a role. Common causes include:

1. Driver Negligence

• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or other distractions cause drivers to veer into oncoming traffic. NHTSA reports distracted driving contributed to 8% of fatal crashes in 2023.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Alcohol or drugs impair reaction time and judgment, leading to lane departures. DUI was a factor in 31% of fatal head-on collisions, per NHTSA.
• Fatigue: Drowsy driving causes loss of control, especially on long drives. The AAA Foundation notes fatigue is involved in 10–20% of serious crashes.
• Reckless Driving: Speeding or aggressive maneuvers, like improper passing, increase collision risks.

2. Road and Environmental Factors

• Poor Road Design: Narrow lanes, lack of dividers, or sharp curves on two-lane roads contribute to collisions. Rural roads account for 40% of head-on crashes, per the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
• Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, or fog reduce visibility and traction, causing vehicles to cross centerlines.
• Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, or animals on the road can force drivers into oncoming traffic.

3. Vehicle Issues

• Mechanical Failures: Brake or steering malfunctions may prevent drivers from maintaining control.
• Tire Blowouts: Sudden tire failure can cause a vehicle to swerve into the opposite lane.

Wetherington’s Approach: The firm investigates all potential causes, using accident reconstruction experts to determine liability. For instance, in a case involving a drunk driver, Wetherington secured a $2.5 million settlement by proving the defendant’s negligence through blood alcohol evidence.

What are the Common Injuries in Head-On Collisions?

The high-impact nature of head-on collisions, where the combined speed of both vehicles amplifies force, leads to severe injuries. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Concussions, contusions, or diffuse axonal injuries from head trauma, often requiring long-term rehabilitation. TBIs occur in 25% of serious crashes, per the CDC.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Fractured vertebrae or spinal cord damage, potentially causing paralysis. Paraplegia or quadriplegia cases may require lifetime care costing $1–$5 million.
• Fractures: Broken bones, such as ribs, femurs, or pelvis, often requiring surgery. Rib fractures are common in 30% of head-on crash victims, per medical studies.
• Internal Injuries: Organ damage or internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening if untreated.
• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: Neck and back strains from sudden impact, often causing chronic pain.
• Facial and Dental Injuries: From airbag deployment or impact with the steering wheel.

What are the Qualities to Look for in a Head-On Collision Lawyer?

Here are the key qualities to seek in a head-on collision lawyer to ensure you’re in capable hands.

• Experience with Head-On Collision Cases: Head-on collisions involve unique challenges, such as severe injuries and complex liability disputes. Look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling head-on accident claims in Georgia, where roads like I-285 or Roswell Road see frequent crashes. They should excel at gathering evidence, such as crash reports or traffic camera footage from Atlanta highways, and collaborating with medical experts to prove the extent of injuries like brain trauma. 
• Compassion and Personalized Care: You’re more than a case, you’re a person facing a life-changing ordeal. A great head-on collision lawyer listens to your story, understands the crash’s impact on your life, and treats you with empathy. Whether you’re a nurse in Midtown unable to work or a parent in Dunwoody managing medical visits, your lawyer should explain your options clearly and keep you informed. 

Avoid firms that prioritize volume over care. Our Atlanta head-on collision attorneys are local, approachable, and committed to tailoring our approach to your needs, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.

• Strong Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often downplay head-on collision claims, offering settlements that don’t reflect your full losses or shifting blame to you. A skilled Atlanta car accident lawyer counters these tactics with evidence like medical records, accident reconstructions, and witness statements to establish the other driver’s fault. 

In Georgia, where comparative negligence (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33) can reduce your compensation if you’re partially at fault, negotiation expertise is vital. Our attorneys are known for outmaneuvering insurance adjusters, securing maximum payouts for clients from Decatur to West End.

• Trial-Ready Experience: While most head-on collision cases settle, you need a lawyer prepared to go to trial if the insurer refuses a fair offer. Look for someone with courtroom experience in Georgia’s courts, such as those in Fulton or Gwinnett County, who can confidently present your case to a judge or jury. Our attorneys, including Robert Friendman and James Cox, have won over $100 million in verdicts, giving us leverage to demand what you deserve, whether in negotiations or at trial.
• Local Knowledge of Atlanta and Georgia Law: A head-on collision lawyer familiar with Atlanta’s roads and legal system has a clear edge. They understand local traffic patterns, like congestion on the Perimeter or crashes near Clark Atlanta University, and how these factors affect liability. 

They also know Georgia’s personal injury laws, including the two-year statute of limitations (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33) and rules for recovering damages. Our Atlanta-native team at Wetherington Law Firm taps into local resources, like police reports and regional specialists, to strengthen cases for clients from Sandy Springs to East Point.

• No Upfront Costs and Clear Fees: Legal help shouldn’t add to your financial burden. Choose a firm that works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only owe fees if they win your case. They should be transparent about fees, typically 33% to 40% of your settlement in Georgia, depending on case complexity. At Wetherington Law Firm, we offer free consultations and charge no fees unless we recover compensation, letting you focus on recovery without stress.
• Focus on Maximizing Compensation: A top car accident attorney aims to secure every dollar you’re owed, accounting for medical bills, vehicle damage, and less tangible losses like emotional distress or future care costs. In Georgia, you can pursue economic and non-economic damages (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-5), but proving their full scope requires expertise. 

Our firm works with economists, doctors, and vocational experts to demonstrate how injuries like spinal damage impact your life and career, securing six- and seven-figure settlements for Atlanta victims.

Ready to find the right lawyer for your head-on collision case? Call Wetherington Law Firm at (404) 888-4444 or fill out our free consultation form today. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and guide you toward recovery with confidence.

How a Head-On Collision Accident Lawyer Can Help

At Wetherington Law Firm, we’re more than legal advocates, we’re partners who care about your recovery. Here’s how we support you:

• Free, No-Obligation Consultation: We hear your story, answer questions, and outline your options without pressure.
• Comprehensive Investigation: We collect crash reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert testimony to build a strong case.
• Maximizing Compensation: We calculate all losses—past and future—to ensure full compensation for medical costs, lost income, pain, and more.
• Handling Insurance Companies: We manage all insurer communications, protecting you from lowball offers and pressure tactics.
• Courtroom Readiness: If a fair settlement isn’t possible, our trial-tested attorneys are prepared to fight for you in court.

Led by Matt Wetherington, a Georgia Super Lawyer with over $100 million in verdicts, our firm has helped countless Atlantans recover after devastating accidents. We proudly serve our community, from College Park to Brookhaven, with compassion and determination.

These injuries carry steep costs, medical bills, lost wages, and emotional strain add up quickly. In Georgia, you can seek compensation for economic losses (e.g., medical expenses) and non-economic damages (e.g., pain and suffering) under O.C.G.A. § 51-12-5. We fight to ensure every aspect of your suffering is fully addressed. An experienced head-on collision accident attorney can help victims secure justice and compensation.

What to Do After a Head-On Collision in Atlanta, GA

The moments after a head-on collision can be overwhelming, but your actions are crucial. Follow these steps to protect your health and claim:

• Seek Medical Attention: Visit a doctor immediately, even if injuries seem minor, TBIs or internal damage may not be obvious right away.
• Report the Accident: Call 911 to file a police report, especially for injuries or significant vehicle damage.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the crash site, vehicle damage, and injuries. Collect witness contact information.
• Avoid Admitting Fault: Don’t apologize or speculate about blame, as it could be used against you.
• Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to us before speaking with insurers to safeguard your rights.

Time is critical in car accident and other personal injury cases. The sooner you act, the stronger your case. Call Wetherington Law Firm at (404) 888-4444 or fill out our free consultation form today.

What Compensation is Available After a Head-On Collision Accident in Georgia?

If you were injured in a head-on collision on a busy Atlanta road like Peachtree Street or stalled on I-20, you shouldn’t bear the financial burden. In Georgia, if another driver’s negligence caused the crash, you can seek compensation to cover your losses and rebuild your life. Here’s what’s available:

• Medical Expenses
  Head-on collisions often cause severe injuries requiring extensive treatment. Compensation covers:
  • Emergency room visits and hospital stays
  • Diagnostic tests (e.g., CT scans, MRIs)
  • Surgeries, physical therapy, or rehabilitation
  • Medications or medical equipment
  • Future care, like ongoing therapy for spinal injuries
    Atlanta’s medical costs, from facilities like Grady or Northside Hospital, can be staggering. We work with experts to document all expenses, ensuring your claim reflects current and future needs.
• Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
  If injuries prevent you from working whether you’re a driver in Chamblee or a professional in Downtown Atlanta, you may recover:
  • Income lost during recovery, including missed shifts or benefits
  • Reduced hours or duties due to physical limitations
  • Loss of earning capacity if injuries impact your career long-term
    For example, a TBI might limit your cognitive abilities, affecting your job. We use vocational experts to prove these losses under O.C.G.A. § 51-12-4, ensuring fair compensation.
• Pain and Suffering
  Head-on collisions cause physical and emotional scars. Compensation for pain and suffering includes:
  • Physical pain from fractures or spinal injuries
  • Emotional distress, like anxiety or PTSD
  • Loss of life enjoyment, such as missing hobbies or family time
    Proving non-economic damages (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-5) requires skill. We use medical records and personal testimony to show how the crash affects your life, from dreading I-75 commutes to struggling with daily tasks.
• Property Damage
  Head-on collisions often total vehicles, disrupting your ability to commute. Compensation includes:
  • Vehicle repair or replacement costs
  • Rental car expenses during repairs
  • Damaged personal items, like laptops or phones
    We negotiate with insurers to cover these costs fully, so you’re not out-of-pocket in Atlanta’s car-dependent city.
• Loss of Consortium
  If injuries strain your relationships, you or your spouse may seek loss of consortium damages for:
  • Loss of companionship or affection
  • Impact on family dynamics
    These damages, though less common, are recognized in Georgia. We handle them sensitively to acknowledge your family’s losses.
• Punitive Damages (Rare)
  If the at-fault driver’s actions were grossly reckless e.g., drunk driving on Lenox Road, punitive damages (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-5.1) may apply to punish and deter. These are rare but significant, and our attorneys pursue them when warranted.

Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-40), drivers must stay in their lane and exercise caution. When they fail, they’re liable for your injuries and losses. Our head-on collision accident lawyers investigate thoroughly, using phone records or accident reconstruction to prove fault.

What Evidence is Needed for a Head-On Collision Lawsuit?

To build a strong case, Wetherington Law Firm head-on collision lawyers gather comprehensive evidence to prove liability and damages. Key evidence includes:

1. Police and Accident Reports

• Description: Official reports from law enforcement detailing the crash scene, witness statements, and citations issued (e.g., for DUI or speeding).
• Purpose: To establish fault and document conditions like weather or road hazards.
• Example: In a Wetherington case, a police report citing the at-fault driver’s intoxication was pivotal in securing a $2.5 million settlement.

How to Obtain: Request a copy from the responding police department. Wetherington can assist in obtaining reports.

2. Medical Records

• Description: Hospital records, diagnostic tests (e.g., MRI, X-rays), and treatment plans documenting injuries like TBIs or fractures.
• Purpose: To prove the extent of injuries and link them to the collision.
• Wetherington’s Approach: The firm works with medical experts to interpret records, as in their $3 million spinal injury case.

How to Obtain: Request records from hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation providers. Wetherington can subpoena records if needed.

3. Witness Statements

• Description: Testimonies from passengers, bystanders, or other drivers who saw the collision or the at-fault driver’s behavior (e.g., swerving, speeding).
• Purpose: To corroborate the cause of the crash and refute defendant claims.
• Example: Wetherington used witness statements to prove a driver crossed the centerline, securing a multimillion-dollar settlement.

How to Obtain: Document witness contact information at the scene. Wetherington conducts depositions during discovery.

4. Photographic and Video Evidence

• Description: Photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, or injuries; dashcam or traffic camera footage.
• Purpose: To show the collision’s severity and contributing factors (e.g., lack of road dividers).
• Wetherington’s Approach: The firm analyzes visual evidence to reconstruct the crash, strengthening liability arguments.

How to Obtain: Take photos at the scene if safe, or request traffic camera footage. Wetherington can access surveillance through legal channels.

5. Accident Reconstruction Reports

• Description: Expert analyses using crash data, vehicle damage, and skid marks to recreate the collision.
• Purpose: To determine fault, especially in disputed cases (e.g., which driver crossed the centerline).
• Wetherington’s Approach: The firm employs accident reconstruction specialists to provide authoritative testimony.

How to Obtain: Wetherington retains experts to produce these reports, covered under their contingency fee model.

6. Electronic Data

• Description: Data from vehicle black boxes (event data recorders), cell phone records, or GPS showing speed, braking, or driver distraction.
• Purpose: To prove reckless behavior, such as texting or speeding.
• Example: Wetherington used cell phone records to prove distracted driving in a head-on collision case.

How to Obtain: Wetherington subpoenas electronic data during discovery.

7. Economic and Life Care Documentation

• Description: Medical bills, lost wage records, and life care plans outlining future care costs (e.g., $1–$5 million for paralysis).
• Purpose: To quantify economic and non-economic damages, including pain and suffering.
• Wetherington’s Approach: The firm collaborates with medical economists to create detailed life care plans, as in their $3 million spinal injury settlement.

How to Obtain: Collect bills and wage statements. Wetherington commissions life care plans through experts. Our head-on collision accident lawyer, Jamex Cox, investigates thoroughly to gather all necessary evidence for your case. 

How is Liability Determined in a Head-On Collision Accident in Georgia?

In Georgia, liability in head-on collision accidents is governed by the state’s tort law and comparative negligence rules. To establish liability, plaintiffs must prove four elements:

• Duty of Care: The defendant (e.g., the other driver) had a legal obligation to drive safely and follow traffic laws.
• Breach of Duty: The defendant failed to meet this obligation through negligent actions (e.g., crossing the centerline).
• Causation: The breach directly caused the collision and resulting injuries.
• Damages: The plaintiff suffered measurable harm (e.g., medical costs, pain, suffering).

Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33), meaning:

• A plaintiff can recover damages only if they are less than 50% at fault.
• Compensation is reduced by the plaintiff’s percentage of fault. For example, if a plaintiff is 20% at fault and damages total $100,000, they recover $80,000.
• If the plaintiff is 50% or more at fault, they recover nothing.

Wetherington Law Firm head-on collision car accident lawyers leverage this framework to maximize compensation, as seen in a $2.5 million settlement for a head-on collision caused by a drunk driver, where the firm proved the defendant’s 100% liability.

Steps to File a Head-On Collision Accident Lawsuit in Georgia

Step 1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention

• Why It Matters: Prompt medical care documents injuries like traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord damage, or fractures, which are common in head-on collisions (e.g., TBIs occur in 25% of serious crashes, per the CDC). This strengthens causation and damages claims.
• Action: Visit a hospital or doctor immediately, even if injuries seem minor, to establish a medical record linking injuries to the crash.
• Wetherington’s Role: The firm uses medical records to prove injury severity, as in their $3 million settlement for a spinal injury victim.

Tip: Keep all medical bills, diagnostic tests (e.g., MRI, X-rays), and treatment plans. Wetherington can help obtain these records.

Step 2: Gather Evidence to Establish Liability

Strong evidence is critical to prove the other party’s negligence and minimize your fault under Georgia’s comparative negligence rule. Key evidence includes:

• Police Report: Obtain the Georgia State Patrol or local police report detailing the crash, witness statements, and citations (e.g., for DUI, which contributes to 31% of fatal head-on crashes, per NHTSA).
• Medical Records: Document injuries and treatments to link them to the collision.
• Witness Statements: Collect testimonies from bystanders or passengers who saw the at-fault driver’s actions (e.g., texting, swerving).
• Photographic/Video Evidence: Photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, or injuries; dashcam or traffic camera footage showing the crash.
• Accident Reconstruction Reports: Expert analyses to determine who crossed the centerline or acted recklessly.
• Electronic Data: Vehicle black box data or cell phone records to prove speeding or distraction (e.g., texting, a factor in 8% of fatal crashes, per NHTSA).
• Road Maintenance Records: Georgia Department of Transportation records to assess if poor road design (e.g., no median on rural roads) contributed.

How to Start: Take photos at the scene if safe, collect witness contacts, and request the police report. Wetherington can subpoena additional records. An experienced head-on collision accident lawyer can help you gather all necessary evidence to file a strong claim.

Step 3: Contact Wetherington Law Firm for a Free Consultation

• Why It Matters: An experienced head-on collision accident attorney assesses your case’s viability, navigates Georgia’s legal complexities, and ensures compliance with deadlines. Wetherington Law Firm offers free consultations to evaluate liability and damages.
• Action: Contact Wetherington at (404) 888-4444 or call their office to discuss your case. Be prepared to provide:
  • Details of the accident (date, location, circumstances).
  • Medical records and injury details.
  • Police report and witness information.
  • Any photos or videos of the crash scene.
• Wetherington’s Role: The firm reviews evidence, identifies liable parties (e.g., drivers, employers, government entities), and builds a case strategy. They secured a $3 million settlement by proving a driver’s negligence in crossing the centerline.

Tip: Schedule consultations with multiple firms if desired, but Wetherington’s expertise in Georgia personal injury law makes them a top choice.

Step 4: Determine Eligible Defendants

Liability may extend beyond the at-fault driver, depending on the crash’s cause:

• Negligent Driver: For actions like DUI, distracted driving, or reckless passing.
• Employer: If the driver was operating a commercial vehicle (e.g., a truck), the employer may be liable under respondeat superior.
• Government Entity: For unsafe road conditions (e.g., no median barriers), though Georgia’s sovereign immunity (O.C.G.A. § 50-21-24) limits claims unless specific negligence is proven.
• Vehicle Manufacturer: For defective parts like faulty brakes or tires.

Wetherington’s Approach: The firm investigates all potential defendants, as in a case where they pursued a trucking company for a driver’s negligence, securing a multimillion-dollar settlement.

How to Proceed: Provide Wetherington with details about the at-fault driver, vehicle type, and road conditions to identify all liable parties.

Step 5: File the Lawsuit Within Georgia’s Statute of Limitations

• Time Limit: Georgia’s statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is 2 years from the accident date (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33). Wrongful death claims also have a 2-year limit. Missing this deadline typically bars recovery.
• Exceptions: The deadline may be tolled (extended) for minors until they turn 18 or if the plaintiff was incapacitated (e.g., in a coma). Wetherington ensures timely filings.
• Filing Process:
  • Venue: File in the appropriate Georgia court (e.g., Superior Court in the county where the crash occurred or where the defendant resides).
  • Complaint: Wetherington drafts a legal complaint outlining negligence, causation, and damages, naming all defendants.
  • Service: The defendant is formally notified, initiating the legal process.
• Wetherington’s Role: The firm files the lawsuit, ensuring compliance with Georgia’s procedural rules, and handles all court filings, as in their $2.5 million DUI case.

Tip: Contact Wetherington immediately after the accident to avoid missing the 2-year deadline.

Step 6: Engage in the Discovery Process

• Description: Discovery is the phase where both sides exchange evidence, including documents, witness depositions, and interrogatories.
• Key Actions:
  • Obtain hospital records, maintenance logs, or electronic data (e.g., black box, phone records).
  • Depose witnesses and defendants to clarify fault.
  • Retain experts (e.g., accident reconstructionists, medical professionals) to testify on liability and damages.
• Wetherington’s Approach: The firm uses discovery to uncover critical evidence, such as traffic camera footage or internal trucking company records, strengthening claims.

How to Assist: Provide Wetherington with all available evidence and be honest during depositions to maintain credibility.

Step 7: Negotiate a Settlement or Proceed to Trial

• Settlement: Most head-on collision cases (approximately 90%, per the American Bar Association) settle out of court. Wetherington negotiates with insurers to maximize compensation, as in their $3 million spinal injury settlement.
• Trial: If a fair settlement isn’t reached, Wetherington prepares for trial, presenting evidence to a judge or jury. The firm’s trial experience, as seen in a $1 million punitive damages award for a DUI case, ensures readiness.
• Timeline: Cases typically take 1–3 years to resolve, with settlements faster than trials.
• Wetherington’s Role: The firm leverages evidence and expert testimony to pressure insurers into fair settlements or win at trial.

Tip: Trust Wetherington’s guidance on whether to accept a settlement or proceed to trial, based on case strength and potential damages.

Step 8: Secure Compensation

Compensation in Georgia head-on collision lawsuits may include:

• Economic Damages: Medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, and future care costs ($1–$5 million for severe injuries like paralysis, per CDC estimates).
• Non-Economic Damages: Pain, suffering, and emotional distress (no cap in Georgia).
• Punitive Damages: Up to $250,000 for egregious conduct like DUI (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-5.1), as in Wetherington’s $1 million punitive award.
• Wrongful Death Damages: For fatal crashes, covering the “full value of the life” of the deceased.

Wetherington’s Approach: The firm collaborates with medical economists to create life care plans, ensuring compensation covers lifelong needs, as in their $3 million settlement.

Challenges in Filing a Head-On Collision Lawsuit in Georgia

• Comparative Negligence: Georgia’s 50% fault bar can reduce or eliminate recovery if the plaintiff is deemed partially at fault (e.g., speeding). Wetherington minimizes plaintiff fault through evidence like reconstruction reports.
• Disputed Liability: Defendants may claim the plaintiff crossed the centerline, requiring strong evidence to prove fault.
• Sovereign Immunity: Claims against government entities for road conditions face strict limits under O.C.G.A. § 50-21-24.
• High Costs: Litigation costs ($50,000–$200,000) are covered by Wetherington’s contingency fee model (25–40% of recovery, no upfront fees).

Georgia Car Accident Laws

Georgia car accident laws govern claims for injuries from head-on collisions, requiring proof of negligence under O.C.G.A. § 51-1-1. A driver’s duty to operate safely is breached by actions like speeding or crossing into oncoming traffic, causing severe injuries like burns or fractures. A head-on collision lawyer uses evidence such as police reports and expert testimony from accident reconstructionists to prove liability, causation, and damages. Wetherington Law Firm, with over $500 million recovered, helps victims navigate these cases to secure compensation for medical costs and pain.

Under Georgia’s modified comparative negligence rule (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33), damages are reduced if the victim is partially at fault, but recovery is barred if they’re 50% or more responsible. For example, if a victim was speeding during a head-on crash, a head-on collision lawyer can use crash reports or witness statements to minimize their fault, maximizing recovery. Prompt action is critical due to Georgia’s 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33), ensuring claims are filed timely.

Damages in Georgia include economic (e.g., medical bills) and non-economic (e.g., pain and suffering) losses, with no cap on non-economic damages. Punitive damages, capped at $250,000 under O.C.G.A. § 51-12-5.1 unless intentional misconduct is proven, may apply in cases like drunk driving. A $2 million settlement for a head-on collision victim with burns highlighted the defendant’s intoxication. A head-on collision attorney ensures robust evidence supports high-value claims.

Georgia mandates minimum liability insurance of $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage (O.C.G.A. § 33-7-11). When injuries exceed these limits, Wetherington pursues additional compensation through the at-fault driver’s assets or underinsured motorist coverage. Contact our Atlanta head-on collision accident attorney at (404) 888-4444 for a free case evaluation to protect your rights within the 2-year deadline.

Contact Our Atlanta Head-On Collision Accident Attorney

After a head-on collision, immediate legal action is crucial to secure evidence like crash scene photos, witness statements, and police reports. These are vital for proving liability and damages. Your attorney uses this evidence to establish duty, breach, causation, and damages, key to a strong claim. Time is of the essence. Call Wetherington Law Firm at (404) 888-4444 or fill out our free consultation form today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the head-on collision in Georgia?

Yes. Georgia’s modified comparative negligence rule (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33) allows recovery if you’re less than 50% at fault, though your compensation is reduced by your fault percentage. For example, if you’re 20% at fault for a $100,000 award, you’d receive $80,000. Our attorneys counter insurance tactics that inflate your blame.

What if the driver who hit me lacks insurance or sufficient coverage?

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can cover medical bills, lost wages, and other losses. Though optional in Georgia, UM/UIM is critical. We review your policy and file claims to ensure you’re not left paying for another’s negligence.

How long does a head-on collision injury claim take to settle in Georgia?

Settlement timelines vary based on case complexity, injury severity, and whether litigation is needed. Many claims settle in months to a year if liability is clear. Complex cases with severe injuries may take longer. We prioritize efficiency while maximizing your compensation.

Should I speak to the other driver’s insurance company after the crash?

Avoid direct contact with the other driver’s insurer without a lawyer. Adjusters may use your statements to weaken your claim. Let us handle all communications to protect your rights and avoid lowball offers.

Georgia Auto Accident Laws Summarized

Driving While Intoxicated

OCGA 40-6-253 and OCGA 40-6-391

Speeding

OCGA 40-6-181

Using a Phone While Driving

OCGA 40-6-241

Failing to Yield to Pedestrians

OCGA 40-6-91, OCGA 40-6-92, OCGA 40-6-93, and OCGA 40-6-96

Failing to Obey a Traffic Official

OCGA 40-6-2

Conducting a Police Chase in a Reckless Manner

OCGA 40-6-6

Failing to Change Lanes to Give Space for Parked Emergency Vehicles and Construction Workers

OCGA 40-6-16 and OCGA 40-6-75

Tampering with or Stealing Road Signs

OCGA 40-6-26

Failing to Maintain One Lane

OCGA 40-6-40 and OCGA 40-6-48

Going the Wrong Way on a One-Way Road

OCGA 40-6-47 and OCGA 40-6-240

Driving a Tractor-Trailer or Bus in the Far-Left Lane(s)

OCGA 40-6-52

Failing to Yield to Emergency Vehicles

OCGA 40-6-74

Making an Improper U-Turn

OCGA 40-6-121

Failing to Exercise Due Caution Near Railroad Crossings

OCGA 40-6-140 and OCGA 40-6-142

Driving Too Slow in the Fast Lane

OCGA 40-6-184

Failing to Slow and Exercise Caution in Construction Zones

OCGA 40-6-188

Obstructing an Intersection

OCGA 40-6-205

Failing to Secure all Loads

OCGA 40-6-248.1 and OCGA 40-6-254

Driving Recklessly

OCGA 40-6-390

Causing Serious Injury by Vehicle

OCGA 40-6-394

Running a Red or Yellow Traffic Light

OCGA 40-6-20, OCGA 40-6-21, and OCGA 40-6-23

Traveling Too Close to Other Vehicles

OCGA 40-6-49

Running Stop and Yield Signs

OCGA 40-6-72

Failing to Yield to Other Vehicles

OCGA 40-6-70 and OCGA 40-6-73

Driving on the Shoulder, Gore, or Other Prohibited Areas

OCGA 40-6-50

Fleeing Police Officers

OCGA 40-6-395

Road Rage

OCGA 40-6-397

Tampering with Traffic Signals

OCGA 40-6-25, OCGA 40-6-17, and OCGA 40-6-396

Driving on the Wrong Side of the Road

OCGA 40-6-40 and OCGA 40-6-45

Passing Another Vehicle Improperly

OCGA 40-6-42, OCGA 40-6-43, OCGA 40-6-44, and OCGA 40-6-46

Going the Wrong Way in a Roundabout

OCGA 40-6-47

Turning the Wrong Way at an Intersection

OCGA 40-6-71 and OCGA 40-6-120

Failing to Yield to Funeral Processions

OCGA 40-6-76

Failing to Use Turn Signals

OCGA 40-6-123

Failing to Stop First Before Exiting a Parking Lot

OCGA 40-6-144

Drag Racing

OCGA 40-6-186

Parking a Vehicle in an Unsafe Place

OCGA 40-6-202

Driving a Vehicle with an Obstructed View

OCGA 40-6-242

Laying Drags or Intentionally Making Skid Marks

OCGA 40-6-251

Intentionally Striking and Killing a Person with a Vehicle

OCGA 40-6-393

Failing to Follow Pedestrian Traffic Signals

OCGA 40-6-22

Failing to Drive Motorcycles Safely

OCGA 40-6-310 and OCGA 40-6-311