Understanding Sideswipe Collisions
Sideswipe collisions are a common type of car accident that can have severe consequences for those involved. These accidents occur when two vehicles collide along the side and can happen anywhere, from highways to city streets or even in parking lots.
The aftermath can be confusing and overwhelming for those involved in a sideswipe collision. Victims may be dealing with physical injuries, property damage, and fear or uncertainty about the future. It’s important to understand that you are not alone in this experience and that help is available.
Common Causes of Sideswipe Collisions
Sideswipe collisions can happen instantly and have lasting impacts on those involved. Understanding how these accidents happen is crucial in preventing them from occurring in the future.
Merging Without Looking: One of the most common ways that sideswipe collisions occur is when a driver merges into another lane without looking. This can result from the driver being in a hurry or simply not paying attention to their surroundings.
Improper Passing: Sideswipe collisions can also occur when a driver tries to pass another vehicle in the same lane. This can happen when the driver misjudges the distance between their vehicle and the one they are trying to pass, causing a collision along the side.
Narrow Lanes: When two vehicles are driving in adjacent lanes, there may not be enough room to safely pass each other, leading to sideswipe collisions.
Poorly Maintained Vehicles: A vehicle with misaligned tires or worn-out suspension components can drift into another lane, leading to a sideswipe collision.
How To Prove Liability in Sideswipe Collisions
With the correct information and approach, you can build a strong case and get the compensation you deserve after a sideswipe collision. Here are the steps you need to take:
Call 911
The first thing you should do after any type of car accident is to call 911. They can ensure that any injured parties receive the medical care they need. They will also create a police report that provides details about the accident.
Gather Evidence
Next, you should gather as much evidence as possible. This can include photos of the damage to your vehicle and the other vehicle involved, pictures of the road and any other relevant parts of the accident scene, eyewitness statements, and any video footage from nearby security cameras.
Review the Police Report
The police report contains important information such as the location of the accident, whether there were any witnesses present, details about the damage to both vehicles and any citations issued to the other driver. It is a key piece of evidence that can be used to determine liability and make sure all parties involved are fairly compensated for their losses.
Speak With a Lawyer
After a car accident, it’s always a good idea to contact a lawyer. They can help you determine if you have a car accident claim to recover damages for your losses. They will also be able to consult with other experts, like accident reconstructionists, to help determine liability.
What If You’re Partially at Fault For The Accident?
If you find yourself in a situation where you are partially at fault for the accident, it is important to understand your rights. In Georgia, car accidents are governed by modified comparative negligence when dealing with liability after a car accident.
This means you can still recover compensation if you’re partially at fault. If this is the case, any monetary damages awarded to you will be reduced by the percentage you are found to be responsible for. However, if you are found to be 50 percent or more at fault for the accident, you cannot recover any compensation from the other party.
If you were injured in a sideswipe and someone else was at least partially responsible, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.