A sideswipe accident is one of the most common types of motor vehicle collisions. These accidents occur when the sides of two cars collide. In addition to property damage, serious injuries are possible—especially when a driver loses control of their vehicle.
If this has happened to you, a sideswipe accident attorney at the Patterson Law Group may be able to help. We understand what it takes to secure fair compensation. If you are considering legal action, a Fort Worth car accident lawyer can help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Common Causes of Sideswipe Collisions
These accidents involve the sides of two vehicles striking each other, but the circumstances will vary. The most common way a sideswipe accident occurs is when two cars are traveling parallel in the same direction. If a driver attempts to change lanes or swerves while another motorist is next to them, it can cause a sideswipe accident. Sideswipe accidents can also occur when a driver merges into traffic after turning from a side street or parking lot. If that driver maneuvers into a road with multiple lanes, it is possible that they could strike a vehicle in their blind spot.
Common Injuries from Sideswipe Accidents
Common injuries with a sideswipe accident are similar to those of other vehicle collisions and include:
- Broken arms and legs
- Brain injuries
- Severe burns
- Internal bleeding
- Cuts and bruises
- Paralysis
- Spinal cord injuries
Understanding Texas sideswipe traffic laws
Texas law requires drivers to remain in their lanes and avoid changing them without signaling. Drivers are also obligated to respect the right-of-way for other vehicles already established in a lane. If a driver fails to uphold their duty and causes a sideswipe accident, this failure can be evidence of negligence. Under the law, this could be enough to establish cause in a personal injury case.
Who is at fault for a sideswipe accident?
It is not always immediately clear who is at fault for a sideswipe accident. Generally, drivers who remain in their lanes will not be liable for sideswipe accidents if other motorists strike them. As stated above, to be at fault in an accident, a motorist must be negligent. Sideswipe accidents usually involve a driver crossing the center line and striking another motorist.
Establishing fault
There are different ways to establish fault. The most substantial evidence involves a video of the accident. Witness testimony is also important. However, even the physical evidence of the accident may make it clear who failed to maintain the right-of-way at the time of the crash.
What damages are available?
The damages available in your case will depend on your physical, emotional, and financial losses and could include:
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Medical bills
- Property damage expenses
- Diminished earnings
To prove your damages, you will need evidence. This could include medical bills establishing the cost of your care or testimony regarding how your pain has impacted your life.
What to do after a sideswipe accident
There are several essential steps to take after a sideswipe accident. You should seek medical care, notify law enforcement, file a police report, and exchange information with the other driver and potential witnesses. However, the most important step you can take is to call a sideswipe accident lawyer.
How to file a claim
A lot of work goes into filing a claim for compensation following a sideswipe accident. This is true whether you are pursuing insurance benefits or considering a lawsuit. The process is complex, but your Fort Worth personal injury attorney will help you every step of the way.
Do I have a case?
You shouldn’t assume you do not have a viable case for compensation, whether you were sideswiped by a car or a truck. With the latter, sustaining serious injuries and property damage is possible. Talk to a Fort Worth rear end truck accident attorney. We offer a complimentary assessment of your right to file a lawsuit to collect the full measure of damages you are entitled to recover for your losses and injuries.
Is there a deadline to file a lawsuit?
Yes, you have a deadline to file your sideswipe accident injury lawsuit. This deadline is referred to as the statute of limitations. You have two years from the accident date to file your lawsuit.
Contact our team for a free consultation
At Patterson Law Group, we have flipped the traditional law firm business model on its head. We are lean. We are efficient. We use technology. And we are accessible. The sum of these parts is a team that is ready and willing to fight for you. Contact us today for your free consultation.
