Were You or a Loved One Injured in a Head-On Collision in Houston?
Head-on collisions are among the most devastating crashes on our roads. Two vehicles traveling in opposite directions colliding front-first can lead to massive impact forces, catastrophic injuries, and even fatalities. These accidents account for only about 2% of all crashes but make up nearly 10% of traffic fatalities in the United States, underscoring just how dangerous they can be.
Attorney Stephen Goldenzweigis a compassionate, experienced legal advocate who focuses on helping head-on crash victims in Houston. If you are overwhelmed by medical bills, facing life-altering injuries, or mourning the loss of a loved one, he understands the challenges you’re dealing with. The Houston head-on crashes attorney at Goldenzweig Law Group stands ready to fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.
Our local office at 6575 West Loop South, Suite 420, Bellaire, TX 77401, serves clients throughout Houston. We know the unique traffic conditions and complex roadways in the area, and we’re committed to providing the dedicated support you need. If you or a loved one was hurt in a head-on collision, we’re here to help you focus on healing while we handle the legal burden.
About Stephen Goldenzweig: A Houston native with years of experience in personal injury law, Stephen has successfully represented head-on collision victims, securing substantial recoveries to help them rebuild their lives.
What Should I Do After a Head-On Car Crash in Houston?
Taking the right steps after a head-on collision is critical. Safety and preserving evidence are top priorities. Below is a simple guide to help protect your health and legal rights:
- Call 911 Immediately
Serious head-on collisions often require urgent medical attention. Contacting the police will also create an accident report, which can be vital evidence in your claim. - Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Head-on crashes frequently cause hidden or delayed-onset injuries, such as internal trauma or concussions. A prompt medical exam is essential for both your well-being and documentation of your injuries. - Collect Evidence (If You Can)
If it’s safe, take photos of vehicle damage, the scene, and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from witnesses and make note of road conditions—whether your collision was on a busy highway like I-45 or a local street. - Do Not Admit Fault or Apologize
In the chaos of a crash, it’s natural to express sympathy. However, statements like “I’m sorry” may be twisted to suggest admission of fault. Provide the facts to law enforcement and let your attorney handle the rest. - Contact a Head-On Collision Lawyer
Once immediate medical concerns are addressed, call a Houston head-on crash attorney such as Stephen Goldenzweig. Early legal representation helps secure evidence, deal with insurance companies, and guide you through the complexities of filing a claim.
Following these steps can protect your health while strengthening your potential case. An experienced lawyer will handle the details so you can concentrate on healing and recovery.
What Are the Common Causes of Head-On Collisions in Houston?
Most head-on collisions result from some form of driver error or negligence. Understanding why these crashes happen can help victims see that they were not at fault and deserve compensation. Common causes include:
- Distracted Driving
Taking one’s eyes off the road for even a moment—texting, adjusting the radio, or checking a phone—can lead a car to drift across the center line. On busy streets or highways like the 610 Loop, a split-second lapse can result in a devastating head-on collision. - Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving
Intoxicated drivers often make reckless errors, such as driving the wrong way or failing to stay in their lane. With Houston’s nightlife and extensive network of highways, impaired driving can quickly lead to tragedy. - Drowsy or Fatigued Driving
Exhaustion is a serious issue on early-morning or late-night commutes. A fatigued driver might nod off and cross the divider, especially on highways like I-10 or I-45. - Speeding Around Curves or Turns
Speed limits are set to maintain control around curves. Drivers who exceed them may veer into opposing lanes on winding roads like Memorial Drive or Allen Parkway. - Improper Passing on Two-Lane Roads
Impatient drivers who try to pass without sufficient visibility can end up facing oncoming traffic. Undivided roads just outside Houston are especially prone to this risk. - Wrong-Way Driving & Traffic Violations
Houston’s one-way downtown streets and complex highway interchanges can confuse some drivers—especially those who are impaired or unfamiliar with the area. Entering a highway exit ramp in the wrong direction is a common cause of head-on crashes.
Each of these causes typically stems from a preventable act of negligence. If you were struck head-on because another driver was distracted, speeding, or intoxicated, you shouldn’t have to shoulder the financial burden alone. Attorney Stephen Goldenzweig can help hold the responsible parties accountable.
Can Head-On Collisions Happen Due to Unusual Situations?
Yes, most head-on collisions stem from driver negligence, but there are rare scenarios where other factors play a role. A few less common causes include:
- Vehicle Mechanical Failure
Tire blowouts or brake and steering failures can suddenly force a driver into oncoming traffic. In these cases, a parts manufacturer or maintenance provider might be liable. - Medical Emergencies
A driver experiencing a heart attack or seizure could lose control of the vehicle and drift into opposing lanes. Although less frequent, these medical events do happen. - Poor Road Design or Missing Signs
Inadequate signage, confusing one-way streets, or poorly marked construction zones can lead even cautious drivers into the wrong lane. A city or state agency may share responsibility if their negligence caused the hazard. - Extreme Weather or Visibility Issues
Houston is prone to heavy downpours and flooding. Severe fog or rain can obscure road markings, causing drivers to swerve into oncoming lanes, sometimes unintentionally. - Multi-Vehicle Chain Reactions
One accident on a congested freeway can push another vehicle into the wrong lane, creating a secondary head-on collision.
Regardless of the scenario, the Houston head-on collision attorneys at Goldenzweig Law Group will investigate every aspect of your crash. Whether a defective part or a missing sign is to blame, we’ll pursue all accountable parties so that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Why Are Head-On Crashes So Dangerous?
Head-on collisions are uniquely hazardous because of the immense forces involved and the severe injuries they often cause. When two vehicles collide front-first:
- Combined Force of Impact
If each car is traveling 40 mph, the resulting force can be comparable to hitting a solid wall at 80 mph. This doubling effect makes head-on crashes particularly life-threatening. - High Fatality Rates
Frontal collisions represent around 10% of all fatal crashes across the country, despite being a small fraction of total accidents overall. One local statistic showed approximately 105 fatal head-on collisions in one recent year in Houston alone, equating to roughly two deadly crashes every week. - Common Severe Injuries
Survivors frequently endure traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, compound fractures, internal organ damage, and severe lacerations. Recovery often involves multiple surgeries, extensive rehabilitation, or permanent disability. - Emotional Trauma
The terror of seeing a collision unfold head-on can lead to lasting psychological effects such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
Because these injuries can permanently alter a victim’s life, attorney Stephen Goldenzweig treats each head-on collision case with the urgency and dedication it deserves. Medical bills and financial stresses are immense, so we fight tirelessly to secure the support you need to move forward.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Head-On Collision in Texas?
Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the party responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for the resulting damages. In a head-on collision, liability often appears straightforward—usually, a driver who crosses into oncoming traffic is at fault. However, there are scenarios where other parties may also share responsibility:
- Negligent Driver
Typically, the other driver’s insurer covers your losses if they caused the head-on crash. - Employers/Commercial Vehicles
When a commercial driver causes a collision while on duty, their employer may be vicariously liable. This can mean a larger insurance policy is available to cover your damages. - Vehicle Manufacturers
Defective brakes, tires, or steering systems can cause a head-on collision. In such cases, a parts manufacturer or negligent mechanic could share responsibility. - Government or Roadway Authorities
Poor road design, missing signage, or unmarked detours can contribute to wrong-lane accidents. Certain claims against government entities involve unique legal hurdles, but they’re possible if negligence is proven. - Multiple Parties
Chain-reaction crashes or other complex situations can mean more than one party is liable. The Houston head-on crashes attorneys at Goldenzweig Law Group will analyze every angle to pursue all available compensation.
Identifying all responsible parties is crucial. Attorney Stephen Goldenzweig conducts a thorough investigation, obtains critical evidence, and holds the correct defendants accountable, whether that’s a reckless driver, trucking company, or municipality.
What If I’m Partly At Fault for My Head-On Collision?
Don’t assume you can’t recover if you bear some fault. Under Texas’ modified comparative negligence system, you can still pursue compensation as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. If you are found 50% or less responsible, your potential recovery is reduced by your percentage of blame. However, once fault crosses the 51% threshold, you lose the right to compensation.
Insurance adjusters often try to push blame onto victims in serious collisions. The Houston head-on crash attorney, Stephen Goldenzweig, works diligently to counter unfair accusations. If the evidence shows the other driver was primarily responsible, we’ll challenge any attempts to assign fault to you without justification. Even if you do share some degree of fault, we fight to minimize that percentage so you can still recover a significant portion of your damages.
What Compensation Can I Recover for a Head-On Collision Injury?
Victims of head-on collisions in Houston have the right to pursue compensation for the full scope of their losses. A successful claim may include:
- Medical Expenses
This covers past and future costs for surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and any ongoing treatments. - Lost Wages & Lost Earning Capacity
If injuries keep you out of work, you can recover lost income. If a permanent disability prevents you from returning to your prior occupation, you may also claim loss of earning capacity. - Pain & Suffering
Head-on collisions often involve severe physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. This category accounts for the mental and emotional toll. - Property Damage
Vehicle repair or replacement costs and damage to personal property inside the car can be recovered. - Permanent Disability or Disfigurement
Catastrophic injuries, such as paralysis or amputation, may warrant significant damages for lasting alterations to your life. - Emotional Distress & PTSD
Psychological trauma is common in violent crashes. Compensation may reflect the impact of chronic anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress. - Loss of Consortium
Spouses or close family members may have a claim for the loss of companionship if the victim’s injuries significantly change their relationship. - Wrongful Death Damages
If a head-on collision tragically leads to a fatality, surviving family members may pursue funeral costs, lost financial support, and compensation for their emotional suffering.
An experienced lawyer like Stephen Goldenzweig can ensure all of these damages are fully evaluated. We gather medical records, consult experts to estimate future costs, and calculate the intangible harms. Our mission is to help you demand every dollar you need to rebuild your life.
How Can a Houston Head-On Crash Lawyer Help Me?
Head-on collision cases involve high stakes and complex legal issues. Having an experienced advocate on your side often means the difference between a minimal settlement and a full, fair recovery. Attorney Stephen Goldenzweig provides comprehensive support in areas such as:
- Thorough Investigation
Our firm collects police reports, witness statements, crash scene evidence, and black box data (if available) to determine exactly how the collision occurred. We may work with reconstruction experts to build a strong case for fault. - Handling Insurance Companies
Insurers often undervalue head-on collision claims because the payouts can be substantial. We take over all communication and negotiations to shield you from adjuster tactics that aim to recduce or deny your claim. - Determining Case Value
Many victims don’t realize how much their case is truly worth. By examining your medical bills, future care needs, and intangible losses like pain and suffering, we make sure no category of damages is overlooked. - Filing Legal Paperwork & Meeting Deadlines
Texas law imposes strict filing deadlines. We’ll ensure everything is completed accurately and on time, including any special requirements if a city or county could be liable. - Advocacy in Court
If the insurance company refuses a fair settlement, we stand ready to file a lawsuit. Litigation experience empowers us to present a compelling argument at trial, pushing insurers to offer an appropriate settlement or leave it to a jury. - Personal Support and Guidance
We keep you updated, answer your questions, and help you navigate tough decisions. The goal is to reduce your stress and allow you to focus on recovery. - No Fees Upfront
We work on a contingency basis, meaning you owe no attorney’s fee unless we secure compensation for you. This gives you peace of mind and eliminates financial barriers to top-tier legal representation.
“A friend referred me to Mr. Goldenzweig and I am so thankful they did. My case with treated with individual attention and I feel like Mr. Goldenzweig truly understood every detail. The outcome of my case was incredible too. But even before it was finalized, I knew that Mr. Goldenzweig led me in the best direction. I tremendously appreciate all the time and attention I was shown.” – Brian
Through meticulous investigation, skillful negotiation, and zealous advocacy, the Houston head-on collision attorneys at Goldenzweig Law Group strive to secure the best possible outcome for every client.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Head-On Collision in Houston?
Texas law generally provides two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline applies to wrongful death cases as well, starting from the date of the loved one’s passing. Missing this window usually means forfeiting your right to recover any compensation.
Certain circumstances can modify or shorten this timeframe. Claims against government entities may require filing a formal notice much sooner. If a minor is involved, the two-year clock might not start until they turn 18. Additionally, critical evidence—such as vehicle data or witness recollections—can be lost as time goes by.
It’s vital to contact Houston head-on collisions attorney Stephen Goldenzweig quickly. Acting early safeguards your claim and preserves key evidence. We’ll make sure all deadlines are met so you can focus on healing.
When Should I Contact a Houston Head-On Collision Lawyer?
The best time to contact a lawyer is as soon as you’re safe to do so. Retaining an attorney early allows for a prompt investigation, better preservation of evidence, and immediate guidance on communicating with insurance companies. Even if your crash was weeks or months ago, it’s never too late to seek help, but sooner is always better.
Attorney Stephen Goldenzweig offers a free, no-obligation consultation to review your case and outline your legal options. You pay no fees upfront—our contingency arrangement means you don’t owe anything unless we win compensation on your behalf. We serve clients throughout Houston and nearby areas, so whether you live downtown, in Bellaire, or elsewhere in Harris County, we’re here to help.
Call (713) 561-5003 today or visit us at 6575 West Loop South, Suite 420, Bellaire, TX 77401. If you can’t come to our office due to your injuries, let us know. We can make arrangements to meet with you wherever is most convenient. You don’t have to go through this alone—let us stand by your side and pursue the justice and compensation you need to move forward.