There are many factors that make Pennsylvania car accidents serious rather than just minor fender benders. In addition to the speed the vehicles are travelling at the time of the collision, size differences and the setting of the accident can play a role. Another factor is what part of each vehicle absorbs the majority of the impact. One of the worst types of motor vehicle accidents are those characterized as head-on crashes.

A fatal accident of this sort occurred last month in Westmoreland County. According to Pennsylvania State Police, a 51-year-old man, who was driving a pickup on Orr Avenue, was killed when another pickup, driving in the opposite direction, crossed the center line and collided with the man's pickup. He reportedly died at the scene.

Others involved in the incident were injured as well. Both the driver of the other pickup as well as the passenger riding in the deceased man's truck were transported via helicopter to hospitals located in Pittsburgh. The nature and severity of their injuries is not currently known.

It is unclear why the oncoming pickup crossed the centerline. Police are seeking to understand what exactly happened through the course of their investigation.

No one is prepared to get a call about the death of a loved one. The family of the man who died in the accident is undoubtedly stunned by the turn of events. In addition to profound sadness, they are likely feeling powerless. For some in this situation, filing a wrongful death lawsuit against negligent parties responsible for the death of a loved one is the best course of action. When successful, in addition to potentially providing some closure, it can also provide financial compensation that will make it easier to start to rebuild.

Source: WTAE, "Head-on collision kills man in Oklahoma Borough," April 27, 2012