Side-Swipe Accident Lawyer

Side-swipe accidents are among the most common types of vehicle collisions, often leading to significant property damage and serious injuries. Side-swipe accidents can happen in numerous driving environments, from congested highways to quiet suburban roads.

If you’ve been involved in a side-swipe accident, understanding your rights and knowing how to navigate the legal process is crucial to securing the compensation you deserve. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys is dedicated to helping car accident victims in Sacramento and throughout Northern California. 

Our team will guide you through each step of the legal process, making sure that your rights are upheld.

What Is a Side-Swipe Accident

A side-swipe accident occurs when the side of one vehicle collides with the side of another vehicle traveling in the same or opposite direction. These collisions can happen in a variety of situations, such as:

• Lane Changes: One of the most common causes of side-swipe accidents is an unsafe lane change. This occurs when a driver fails to check their blind spot or signal properly before merging into another lane, colliding with a vehicle already occupying that space.
• Passing: Side-swipe accidents can also occur when a driver is attempting to pass another vehicle but misjudges the distance, leading to a collision.
• Turning: In some cases, side-swipe accidents happen when a driver makes a turn and veers into another lane, striking a vehicle traveling in the same direction.

The severity of a side-swipe accident can vary depending on factors such as the speed of the vehicles involved and the specific circumstances of the collision. While some side-swipe accidents result in minor damage, others can lead to severe injuries, particularly if the collision causes one or both vehicles to lose control.

Common Causes of Side-Swipe Accidents

Understanding the common causes of side-swipe accidents can help you stay vigilant on the road and potentially avoid a collision. Some of the primary causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Distractions such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio can cause a driver to drift into another lane, resulting in a side-swipe collision.
• Fatigue: A driver who is overly tired may struggle to maintain control of their vehicle, leading to swerving or drifting into adjacent lanes.
• Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs often have impaired judgment and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of making dangerous maneuvers that can lead to a side-swipe accident.
• Aggressive Driving: Speeding, tailgating, and weaving through traffic are all aggressive driving behaviors that can contribute to side-swipe collisions.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or ice can reduce visibility and make it difficult for drivers to stay in their lanes, increasing the risk of a side-swipe accident.

Legal Challenges in Side-Swipe Accident Cases

Side-swipe accidents present unique legal challenges, especially when it comes to determining fault. Unlike rear-end collisions, where fault is often more straightforward, side-swipe accidents can involve complex scenarios that require a detailed investigation. Some of the key challenges include:

Determining Liability

In a side-swipe accident, both drivers may claim that the other was at fault. Determining liability requires careful examination of evidence such as witness statements, traffic camera footage, and vehicle damage.

Shared Fault

California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that fault can be shared between drivers. If you are found to be partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of your liability. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%.

Insurance Complications

Dealing with insurance companies after a side-swipe accident can be challenging, particularly if the other driver’s insurer disputes liability or offers a low settlement. Having an attorney on your side can help ensure that your rights are protected during negotiations.

Steps to Take After a Side-Swipe Accident

Following a side-swipe accident, the actions you take immediately afterward can greatly affect your chances of securing compensation. Here are some essential actions to consider:

1. Safety: First and foremost, check for injuries and move to a safe location if possible. If your vehicle is drivable, pull over to the side of the road to avoid further accidents.
2. Call the Police: It’s important to have law enforcement document the accident, even if it appears to be minor. A police report can be a valuable piece of evidence when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
3. Exchange Information: Gather the names, contact information, and insurance details of all parties involved in the accident. Be sure to note the make, model, and license plate number of the other vehicles.
4. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including the position of the vehicles, any visible damage, and any relevant road conditions. If there are witnesses, try to get their contact information as well.
5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and having a medical record can be critical for your case.
6. Contact an Attorney: Before speaking with insurance companies, consult with an experienced side-swipe accident lawyer. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Pursuing Compensation for Side-Swipe Accidents

After a side-swipe accident, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the severity of your injuries and the extent of the damage to your vehicle. The types of compensation you may pursue include:

• Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any other medical treatments related to the accident.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income. This can include both past and future wages, depending on the impact of your injuries.
• Property Damage: You can seek compensation for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other property damaged in the accident.
• Pain and Suffering: In addition to economic damages, you may be entitled to compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. This can include long-term impacts on your quality of life.
• Loss of Consortium: In some cases, the spouse of an injured person may be entitled to compensation for the loss of companionship and support due to the injuries sustained in the accident.

How a Side-Swipe Accident Lawyer Can Help

Navigating the aftermath of a side-swipe accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, vehicle repairs, and insurance claims. Having an experienced side-swipe accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Here’s how we can help:

• Investigating the Accident: We will conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident to determine liability.
• Handling Insurance Companies: We will manage all communications with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair settlement.
• Negotiating a Settlement: If the other party’s insurance company offers a low settlement, we will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
• Taking Your Case to Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights in front of a judge and jury.

Taking Action After a Side-Swipe Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in a side-swipe accident, it’s crucial to take action as soon as possible. We are committed to helping you secure the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move forward with your life. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our experienced team guide you through the legal process. We are here to support you every step of the way.