A sideswipe collision happens when two vehicles traveling in the same direction make contact, usually because one driver changes lanes without checking if the lane is clear.
These auto accidents can cause anything from minor damage to severe injuries, depending on the speed and angle of the crash. Knowing how sideswipe accidents occur helps drivers and pedestrians stay safer on the road. Read on to learn more.
How Sideswipe Collisions Happen on the Road
Most sideswipe accidents occur during lane changes when drivers fail to check blind spots. When a driver changes lanes without noticing another vehicle, the cars may collide.
Sideswipes also occur when drivers lose control due to speeding or distraction and drift into another lane. These actions can lead to serious injuries for everyone involved. Staying alert and focused while driving can prevent these accidents.
Heavy traffic and intersections create more opportunities for sideswipe crashes. A driver swerving to avoid an obstacle may hit a nearby vehicle. Improper merging can also cause a sideswipe accident when a driver enters a lane without enough space.
These situations show how important it is to stay aware and cautious behind the wheel.
Factors That Contribute to Sideswipe Accidents
Many factors increase the risk of sideswipe accidents. Distracted driving, such as texting or adjusting the radio, causes drivers to miss vehicles in their blind spots. Aggressive driving – like speeding or weaving through traffic – raises the chances of collisions. Poor weather, like rain or fog, can reduce visibility and make it harder to judge distances.
Vehicle maintenance also matters. Malfunctioning mirrors or brakes can prevent safe lane changes. Larger vehicles, like trucks, can cause more damage and injuries when they sideswipe smaller cars.
Common Injuries Resulting from Sideswipe Crashes
Sideswipe accidents cause a wide range of injuries. Whiplash is common when the neck jerks suddenly, straining muscles and ligaments. Cuts, bruises, and broken bones may result from the impact. More severe crashes can lead to traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage, both of which can affect long-term health.
Accidents can also cause emotional trauma. Victims may develop anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder, also known as PTSD. This makes it hard to drive or handle daily activities. Emotional injuries can be as serious as physical ones.
Anyone in a sideswipe accident should seek immediate medical care, even if they feel fine, to catch hidden injuries.
Your Legal Options After a Sideswipe Collision
If a sideswipe accident causes injuries, legal options exist to help cover medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Proving fault is important for insurance claims and lawsuits. Insurance companies examine accident details to decide responsibility. A car accident lawyer can help you through this process.
If another driver’s negligence caused the crash, filing a personal injury lawsuit may help you recover damages. Photos, witness statements, and other evidence can strengthen your case. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer provides clarity on your rights and the next steps.
Schedule a Free Consultation With an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer After a Sideswipe Collision
After a sideswipe accident, speak with a personal injury lawyer to explore your legal options. An experienced attorney can explain your rights, assist with insurance claims, and represent you in negotiations or court.
A lawyer can collect evidence, such as medical records and expert opinions, to support your case. They can also help prove fault, a major factor in securing compensation. Your attorney will focus on handling legal matters so that you can concentrate on healing. Contact us today to learn how we can help you move forward.
Contact our Car Accident Lawyers at McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers for Legal Help With Your Case
If you’ve been injured, contact your nearest McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve in Austin, TX and Salt Lake City, UT.
McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers – Austin, TX Office
502 W 14th St, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 474-0222
McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers – Salt Lake City, UT Office
650 S 500, Suite 290, Salt Lake City, UT 84104
(512) 474-0222