Sideswipe Collision Injuries

Recovering Compensation From Sideswipe Collisions

The most common thought after a motor vehicle collision is “I didn’t see it coming.” This short phrase is often used to describe how an accident “comes out of nowhere.” And, it is frequently the first line of defense in deflecting fault.

As any law professional will tell you, however, most accidents don’t “come out of nowhere.” Usually, one or both drivers may do something to cause an otherwise preventable accident.

If there’s any accident where the phrase is the most conceivable, it’s a sideswipe collision. Sideswipe accidents often take both drivers involved by surprise. A sideswipe collision happens when two vehicles “swipe” each other on the side. This type of accident typically happens while the drivers are driving in the same direction. Usually one car is positioned in the other driver’s blind spot.

While these accidents may not seem as dangerous as other types of accidents, they lead tohundreds of fatalities every year. If you were in a sideswipe accident, an experienced car accident attorney may help.

What Causes Sideswipe Collisions?

Accidents don’t just happen. According to the Georgia Department of Transportation,70 percent of traffic fatalities are the result of unsafe driving practices. This is often the case with sideswipe collisions. The most common causes of sideswipe collisions include:

• Distracted driving: Historically, distracted driving has been a major problem in Georgia. In one recent year, there were over 11,000 distracted driving convictions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), people who drive while on the phone arefour times more likely to cause an accident. Drivers who text and drive increase the risk of accidents by 23 percent. Driving while on the phone is not only dangerous, it’s illegal. In 2018, the state passed legislation prohibiting the use of mobile devices while driving.
• Driving under the influence: Alcohol and drugs can affect a driver in many ways. One of the ways an officer can recognize a drunk driver is by their erratic driving behavior. Drivers under the influence may drift in and out of their lane, potentially causing a sideswipe collision.
• Reckless driving: Sometimes accidents are caused by recklessness or just poor driving behaviors. A driver in a hurry may speed down the lanes and cut in front of other drivers. Typically, the goal is to pass other slower vehicles. However, reckless driving is a dangerous behavior that commonly leads to accidents.
• Merging: Merging is another common cause of sideswipe collisions. Accidents on highway off-ramps can happen when a driver feels rushed or when they are unable to observe cars in their blind spot.
• Blind spots: All vehicles have blind spots. Blind spots are particularly problematic for larger vehicles. If a driver is unable to see the other vehicle, they may begin to merge into the path of oncoming traffic.

Why Are Sideswipe Collisions so Dangerous?

Sideswipe accidents are often dismissed as minor accidents. However, this is not always the case. Sideswipe accidents frequently have serious and deadly consequences. There are a few notable factors that put drivers at risk, including:

• Secondary accidents: Depending on the speed of the vehicles, a sideswipe accident can cause one or both of the drivers to lose control of their vehicle. This can cause the vehicles to collide with another vehicle or a fixed object.
• Inadequate protection: Vehicles are equipped to protect drivers and passengers in the event of an accident. The front and rear of cars are equipped with zones intended to absorb the force of the collision. However, drivers are more vulnerable on the side of the vehicle. Although many cars now have side airbags, this may not be enough in a serious accident.

Common Injuries After a Sideswipe Collision

Motor vehicle accidents continue to be one of the leading causes of accidental injuries in the country. The force of impact can throw the vehicle occupants against objects in the vehicle, causing serious injury. Wearing a seatbelt substantially lowers your risk of serious injury in an accident. According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, 59 percent of occupants killed in a motor vehicle accident were not wearing a seatbelt.

Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI): Traumatic brain injuries are the result of a substantial force to the head or a penetrating injury. In car accidents, this can happen when the head hits the window, steering wheel, or other fixed objects within the vehicle. TBIs can be life-threatening injuries and need immediate treatment. Symptoms to watch out for include headaches, dizziness, loss of consciousness, and mood changes.
• Broken bones: Broken bones commonly result from car accidents. For sideswipe accidents, the force of the airbag or the other vehicle can hit the thorax, causing broken ribs, which can be dangerous if they puncture the lungs.
• Spinal cord injuries: Like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries happen after a major trauma. Just a hard hit can cause permanent injury. Spinal cord injuries usually result in full or partial paralysis. Go to the doctor right away if you have trouble moving, or experience extreme pain, numbness, or tingling.
• Cuts and lacerations: Cuts and lacerations don’t usually require extensive medical attention. These injuries can happen when the body scrapes across an object or comes in contact with broken glass. If the bleeding does not stop, the cut looks deep, or you have difficulty moving, seek medical treatment.

How to Prevent Sideswipe Collisions

Most accidents are caused by a driver’s negligence. The best way to prevent an accident is to drive safe and be smart. While you can’t change the actions of others, you can take steps to keep you safe, including:

• Checking your blind spots: Always check your blind spots before you change lanes or merge. Don’t just rely on your mirrors. A quick glance behind your shoulder can reveal vehicles your mirror may not show.
• Being alert: You always need to be aware of other drivers. Sometimes anticipate a driver’s moves before they even happen. Check your mirrors frequently to know what vehicles are around you. If you see someone driving recklessly or seemingly drunk or distracted, stay back and report and dangerous behavior.
• Using turn signals: Your turn signal indicates to other drivers that you plan to change lanes. If you begin to move and the other driver does not know your intentions, they cannot respond appropriately.

How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Protect Your Rights

Accidents are scary. If you or a loved one has been in an accident, you deserve a fair and just settlement. Sideswipe accidents can be tricky. Because of the nature of the accident, the parties often dispute fault. After a sideswipe accident, then, especially if you you have questions, contact an experienced car accident attorney.