Car AccidentsAnyone who drives regularly has probably witnessed a driver drift in and out of their lane. While most drivers may correct this action without any consequence, sometimes they are unable to do so and hit the side of another car. In these cases, determining who is at fault for a sideswipe car accident is crucial.
Fault is typically assigned to the driver who acted negligently or violated traffic laws. For example, a driver who failed to check their blind spot before changing lanes, drifted out of their lane due to distraction or impairment, or engaged in aggressive driving behaviors like weaving through traffic is often found at fault. Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, or dashcam footage can help establish liability.
Most people associate sideswipe car collisions with relatively minor damage and minimal injuries. However, these accidents have the potential to cause serious, life-threatening injuries and severe property damage.
If you suffered injuries in a sideswipe car accident and weren’t at fault, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. Schedule a confidential consultation with a personal injury attorney to discuss how you can recover compensation. Don’t delay—protect your rights today!
What Is a Sideswipe Car Accident?
A sideswipe car accident occurs when two cars travel parallel to one another, either in the same or opposite direction, and collide with each other.
Sideswipe car collisions may occur in intersections, parking lots, highways, or neighborhood roadways. The consequences of these accidents vary from minor scratches to serious injuries.
What Are Common Causes of Sideswipe Car Accidents?
Sideswipe car accidents typically occur when one driver moves out of their lane unsafely and hits another car.
Common reasons why sideswipe car collisions occur include:
- Failing to check blind spots,
- Failing to properly change lanes,
- Drifting out of a lane while distracted,
- Hydroplaning on wet or icy roadways,
- Driving under the influence,
- Road rage, and
- Drowsy driving.
Additionally, when drivers drive too fast on curved roadways, sideswipe car accidents may occur when over- or under-steering on the curve.
Who Is at Fault in a Sideswipe Car Accident?
After a sideswipe car accident, determining fault is vital when seeking compensation for your injuries in a personal injury lawsuit.
Texas law requires all drivers to stay in a single lane of travel. A driver may change lanes when it is safe and they use their vehicle signals.
When a sideswipe car accident occurs, the at-fault driver is the one that crosses into another lane and sideswipes a car legally in their lane. A driver is also at fault if they sideswipe a legally parked car.
Common Injuries After a Sideswipe Car Accident
The severity of injuries following a sideswipe accident depends on numerous factors. These factors include the size of the vehicles involved, the speed of travel, and the force of the collision.
Common injuries of sideswipe accidents include the following:
- Spinal cord injuries,
- Traumatic brain injuries,
- Whiplash,
- Internal injuries,
- Broken bones,
- Bruising, and
- Burns.
Some injuries may not be immediately apparent following a car accident. Some symptoms may not show up for hours or days.
For this reason, despite your belief that you may have escaped your sideswipe car accident unscathed, it’s crucial to seek medical attention to avoid further complications.
Call (254) 752-9688 or complete the free case review form below
Contact Us If You Were Injured in a Sideswipe Accident in Texas
Since 1962, the attorneys at The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C., have been fighting for the rights of Central Texans. Our attorneys have cultivated a reputation for helping clients move forward after a traumatic accident.
After an accident, you may feel overwhelmed and burdened by what lies ahead. We provide our clients with zealous representation, competent experience, and personalized service.
When you meet with one of our attorneys, this is your attorney for your entire case. Contact our office today for a free consultation and case review!
Where You Can Find Our Waco, TX Office
Michael Zimmerman
Michael was born in Houston, Texas. His education at Baylor and Texas State Universities earned him a Bachelor of Science degree in 1987. His major was in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry. He finished his legal education at Texas Southern University in 1990, earning a Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1990.
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