Fayetteville Head-On Collision Attorneys

Fayetteville Head-On Collision Attorneys

Fayetteville head-on collisions are horrific, and if a driver and passengers make it out alive, they can be left with serious injuries. A survivor’s whole life is suddenly turned upside down. If you were involved in a head-on crash recently, you may be wondering who is going to pay for your medical bills? Can you return to work? How are you going to pay your monthly rent, mortgage, groceries, and utilities? How long are you going to be off work?

The main key to seeking compensation after a Fayetteville head-on collision depends on proving who was at fault for the car crash. It is not a simple task, as car accidents, particularly head-on collisions, are not straightforward and clear. Each head-on wreck is different, and there could have been multiple parties involved, and as a plaintiff, you may also bear some responsibility for the cause of the accident.

That’s why speaking with our team at the Law Office of Jason M. Hatfield is crucial. We will review your documents, review the other party’s documents, and help determine the best means of achieving a fair settlement on your behalf.

How Head-On Crashes Can Happen in Fayetteville

A head-on crash typically occurs when a driver acted negligently, recklessly, or carelessly. This can happen in the following ways:

• A vehicle crossed a median.
• A vehicle crossed the centerline of a two-lane road.
• A vehicle entered an Interstate Road from an exit ramp.
• A car drove the wrong way down a one-way street or highway.
• Two vehicles crashed in a turning lane.
• A driver illegally passed another driver, where there was not enough room to do so.

A driver illegally passed another driver, where there was not enough room to do so. Each of these types of accidents requires an investigation, as every crash is different. If every driver followed the rules and respected other drivers, paid attention to their surroundings and any other traffic in the area, and was alert at all times, the accident, injury, and death rate could be lower. In Arkansas, a plaintiff must be less than 51 percent at fault to recover in proportion to their level of responsibility.

What Are Common Injuries from a Head-On Collision?

A head-on crash forces your body to absorb tremendous impact, which often leads to severe and lasting harm. While the exact injuries vary depending on speed, seatbelt use, and vehicle size, certain conditions appear again and again in these cases.

Common injuries in a Fayetteville head-on collision include, but are not limited to:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Concussions and more severe brain damage can occur when the head strikes a surface or whips violently forward and back. These injuries may cause memory loss, headaches, or long-term disability.
• Spinal cord injuries. Damage to the spine can result in chronic pain, nerve damage, or partial or total paralysis. Even whiplash, often considered “minor,” can have lingering effects.
• Broken bones. Arms, legs, ribs, and hips frequently fracture under the force of the crash. Multiple breaks may require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
• Internal organ damage. Blunt force trauma can harm vital organs such as the lungs, liver, or kidneys, sometimes leading to life-threatening internal bleeding.
• Chest and abdominal trauma. Seatbelts save lives, but they can also cause bruising, cracked ribs, or injuries to the heart and lungs when the force is extreme.
• Facial injuries. Shattered glass and impact with airbags or dashboards often cause scarring, dental damage, or disfigurement.
• Amputations and crush injuries. When the vehicle structure collapses inward, limbs can be severely damaged or lost.
• Burns and lacerations. Fires, chemical exposure, or sharp debris may leave victims with painful wounds and permanent scars.

These injuries often require months or years of treatment, and some leave lasting disabilities. If you or a loved one were involved in a head-on collision in Arkansas, securing legal help quickly can make all the difference in your recovery and financial future.

Typical Causes of Fayetteville, AR Car Crashes

These crashes, in which liability is “no doubt” the fault of one driver, are not exhaustive. They include the following:

• DUI/DWI Collisions – In the vast majority of cases, drunk drivers are almost always liable for the accident. Should the plaintiff also be deemed partially responsible, the DUI/DWI driver bears the biggest burden.
• Left-Turn Crashes – Virtually any vehicle making a left turn is almost always deemed liable for any vehicle coming straight – unless – the other vehicle was speeding or ran a traffic signal.
• Rear-End Accidents – The driver behind you must leave space to stop in an emergency. If they cannot do that, they are deemed at fault for the crash.

Other reasons for crashes include the following:

• Parked Car Crashes – It is always the car in motion that is responsible for the collision.
• Single-Vehicle Accidents – Usually the lone driver is responsible for a crash, but each case is different.
• Multiple Car Chain Crashes – There is generally at least one driver that starts this type of accident which ends up with a series of collisions between multiple other vehicles.

Being involved in a Fayetteville head-on collision can not only be devastating, but the aftermath involving insurance companies and other legal issues can be distressing. Be aware that if the plaintiff’s damages are reduced for being partially at fault for a crash, the insurance company tries to transfer some of the blame to the plaintiff.

Your Legal Rights After A Head-On Collision in Fayetteville, AR

Types of Evidence Used in a Fayetteville Head-On Collision Claim

A Fayetteville head-on collision attorney obtains as much evidence as they possibly can. That evidence usually includes, but is not limited to:

• The police accident report.
• An accident scene survey.
• Accident reconstruction data.
• Eyewitness information.
• Videos and/or pictures of the crash.
• Physical evidence gathered at the scene of the collision.
• A plaintiff’s relevant medical records.
• Expert medical testimony.
• All relevant documentation relating to damages.

The major reason for a police investigation is to find out who was at fault for the accident and who is liable. This takes time and resources and usually includes the following:

• Asking eyewitnesses if they have dash cam video.
• Surveying the scene
• Canvassing for eyewitnesses.
• Canvassing for nearby video footage.
• Issuing citations where relevant.
• Obtaining all relevant documents.
• Reconstructing the crash.
• Working with experts to determine how the crash happened.

Not all police reports are accurate, and such documents can have errors in them. This is something the Fayetteville head-on collision lawyers at the Law Office of Jason M. Hatfield check closely. We check to detect if there may be errors in the accident documentation.

The State of Arkansas Follows the At-Fault Doctrine

In short, the at-fault doctrine dictates that the individual responsible for an accident is also liable for all injuries and damages caused. As a plaintiff, or survivor of a head-on collision, you may seek compensation in one of the following three ways:

• Filing a personal injury lawsuit.
• Filing a claim with your insurance company.
• Filing a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer.

Arkansas is also unique in that it also has add-on no-fault laws, meaning those who buy vehicle insurance can also buy Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance to pay for medical bills and other related expenses, no matter who caused the crash. PIP means the injured driver can file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

It is also helpful to know that there are some types of accidents that are usually the fault of the other driver. These types of crashes are referred to as “no doubt” liability because insurance companies rarely argue these cases.

Negligence is the Key to Fayetteville Head-On Collisions

In a personal injury lawsuit, which includes serious injuries and/or wrongful death, the plaintiff must prove the other driver had a duty to drive with care, that they did not do so and drove recklessly, and that by driving carelessly, they caused an accident and the injuries and/or death.

There are various types of negligence, including:

• Comparative negligence – This is when the plaintiff is partly responsible for your injuries and property damage. The plaintiff may pay a percentage of the damages.
• Contributory negligence – This happens when the plaintiff caused their injuries, and cannot collect damages.
• Modified comparative negligence – The plaintiff cannot recover damages if they are deemed to be (at least) 50 percent or more, responsible for the collision. Note: Arkansas uses the modified comparative fault rule.
• Pure comparative negligence – This works by adding up the damages sustained in a wreck. The plaintiff’s damages are totaled and then reduced by the percentage of fault they bear for the accident.

All insurance companies have a goal of reducing or denying claims. Never try to settle a claim with an insurance company on your own. Call us for help. We’ve got your back at the Law Office of Jason M. Hatfield.

What Can a Fayetteville Head-On Car Crash Attorney Do For Me?

When you or your loved one has been injured in a head-on collision, the choice of attorney matters. Jason M. Hatfield has built his career on standing up for hardworking Arkansans and delivering results in the most challenging cases. His combination of personal grit, professional recognition, and genuine compassion makes him a strong advocate for clients facing life-changing injuries.

A Career Built on Hard Work and Results

Jason’s journey began long before law school. He worked construction sites, stocked warehouses, and labored in poultry plants to put himself through school. Those experiences gave him an understanding of the struggles injured workers and accident victims face, and that perspective still drives his advocacy today.

Since earning his law degree, Jason has tried jury cases in state and federal courts, successfully argued appeals before the Arkansas Supreme Court, and fought corporate negligence in nationally recognized cases.

Today, Jason is recognized as one of the Top 50 Arkansas Super Lawyers, has been named “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers®, and holds the highest AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. These honors reflect his dedication to fairness and his relentless pursuit of justice for the people of Arkansas.

What Clients Say About Working With Jason Hatfield

Past clients describe Jason and his team as approachable, compassionate, and determined. Their words provide the clearest picture of the care and commitment you can expect when you place your trust in their firm.

“If you need a workman’s compensation attorney, this is your man! Jason & his staff are the best in the business… they worked very hard and did whatever it took to get me a 6-figure settlement.” – Dennis D.

“Jason handled my workers’ compensation claim and my husband’s Social Security Disability case. In both instances, the outcome was positive and we could not have been more pleased… our concerns and questions were always quickly addressed.” – Jo.

“I was in two car accidents, 8 months between each other… then I hired Jason, the best lawyer!!! He communicated and kept me updated with my case; he’s a professional conducting his practice.” – Roberto G.

“I was involved in a car accident in which I lost my Mother. Jason came to our home to get the information and took care of everything… he was very professional and kept us informed. Jason was able to get us a fair settlement, and I am very grateful.” – Anonymous.

“Our son was in a motorcycle accident and sustained life-changing injuries. From day one, we were treated like family… Jason took so much stress and carried it for us so we could focus on our son. He truly cared for our son’s well-being. We are forever grateful for Jason and his team!!!!” – Shauna W.

These testimonials show that Jason is not only a skilled trial lawyer but also a trusted ally during the most challenging times.

A Trusted Advocate for Arkansas Families

Jason Hatfield’s reputation comes from more than his courtroom success. He has testified before legislative committees to protect the rights of injured workers, served in leadership roles with state and local bar associations, and worked tirelessly to ensure Arkansans have a fair chance against powerful insurance companies and corporations.

Choosing Jason means choosing someone who understands your struggle, treats your family with compassion, and fights for the outcome you deserve. With offices in Springdale and Fort Smith, he is ready to meet with you and start building your case today.

Head-On Collision FAQs

What is the average settlement for a head-on collision?

There is no fixed average because every case depends on the injuries, the treatment you need, the income you lose, and how fault is proven. Settlements often arise when injuries are severe, permanent, or well-documented, but the only way to get a fair picture is to review the details of your claim with an attorney.

What happens after a head-on collision?

The body absorbs tremendous force, often leading to concussions, spinal injuries, or damage to the neck. These injuries may not show up right away, which is why you should seek medical care immediately and follow through with specialists. An attorney can step in quickly to preserve evidence, deal with insurers, and help you focus on recovery.