Why Do Head-On Crashes Often Cause Catastrophic Injuries?

 Posted on December 17, 2025 in Car Accidents

On June 8, 2025, a crash on I-25 in Denver killed one person and injured four others. A Dodge Caravan was heading in the wrong direction when it hit a Subaru. The Dodge's driver died in the accident, and the passenger in that van had to be extricated before being transported to a nearby hospital. Three of the Subaru's occupants were also hospitalized, with two of them having serious injuries. That same Dodge was spotted driving the wrong way earlier in the day in another area.

Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of car accidents, often causing severe or even fatal injuries. The higher your damages, the harder an insurance company is likely to fight against paying your claim. Our Denver, CO personal injury attorneys will fight to recover the most compensation available for your claim.

What Is So Dangerous About a Head-On Collision?

Because both vehicles in a head-on crash are usually moving at the time of impact, the force of the collision is often doubled. For example, if both vehicles are traveling at 50 mph in opposite directions, the impact force is like hitting a brick wall at 100 mph. The human body cannot withstand this kind of force unscathed, even with safety features like airbags and seatbelts.

Because the front of the vehicle takes the full force of the impact, the engine area is often crushed. Drivers and front-seat passengers are at risk of being trapped or pinned, which can lead to serious injuries.

If passengers are not using seatbelts, they may be ejected from the car. Sudden deceleration upon impact can rupture, shift, or tear organs. The head and neck frequently suffer blunt force impact, potentially leading to brain and spinal cord injuries.

What Causes Head-On Crashes?

While rear-end accidents are the most common type of car accident, there have been more than 3,200 head-on collisions in Colorado so far this year according to the Colorado Department of Transportation, caused by a variety of issues.

Distracted Driving

A primary cause of head-on car collisions is driving distracted. The consequences can be deadly when drivers stop paying attention to the road, even for a second. Even eating or changing the radio station can impair a driver's ability to stay in their lane. 

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another common cause of head-on accidents. Drunk drivers often exhibit reckless behavior, such as swerving across lanes or driving in the wrong direction. These actions endanger not only the impaired driver but also innocent motorists sharing the road.

Fatigue and Drowsy Driving

This is an underestimated cause of head-on car accidents. Sleep-deprived drivers experience impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and even fall asleep at the wheel. These factors can lead to unintentional lane drifting and head-on collisions.

Dangerous Passing Maneuvers

Drivers who decide to pass other vehicles without checking to see if the other lane is clear can cause deadly head-on crashes. Passing on two-lane roads without enough space and visibility puts everyone at risk.

Road Conditions and Weather

Bad weather conditions also contribute to head-on car collisions. Slippery surfaces, bad visibility, and limited traction make it harder for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles. Oncoming traffic may unexpectedly veer into the wrong lane due to hydroplaning, skidding, or loss of control.

What Kinds of Injuries Are Common in Head-On Accidents?

Some of the most severe injuries in head-on crashes include:

• Traumatic brain injuries from hitting the steering wheel, window, or dashboard

• Spinal cord injuries that may lead to paralysis

• Broken bones, especially in the legs, arms, and ribs

• Internal bleeding or organ damage

• Severe facial injuries or disfigurement

These injuries often require surgery, long hospital stays, and ongoing rehabilitation. In some cases, the damage is permanent or fatal.

What Could Head-On Collision Damages Cover?

People who survive head-on collisions often face a long road to recovery. Some may never regain full mobility. Others may not ever be able to return to work or live independently. The physical, emotional, and financial costs of these accidents can be staggering.

Your damages are unique, based on your case's specific details. Your compensation may include current and future accident-related expenses, as well as various forms of pain and suffering. If you are filing a wrongful death claim under Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-21-202, additional damages may apply.

There is no way to determine the exact amount until your attorney knows your case-specific factors. These include:

• Whether you share any fault for the crash

• The total cost of your accident-related expenses

• The estimated costs of your future medical expenses

• How much money you earn

• How significantly your accident and injuries impacted your quality of life

Deserving compensation does not mean that actually getting it will be easy. It takes experience and determination to win. We have recovered over $100 million in settlements and verdicts, and we look forward to adding your damages to that total.

Consult Our Experienced Denver, CO Car Accident Lawyers

When you choose The Gold Law Firm, you are working with a partner who is focused on protecting your best interests after a head-on collision. We will calculate your damages and work hard to see you collect the highest amount available.

Arrange your free consultation with our experienced Denver, CO personal injury lawyers today by calling 303-694-4653 or contacting us online.