Sideswipe accidents are a serious and often deadly type of collision. They occur suddenly, usually at high speeds, and can result in severe injuries or multi-vehicle crashes, especially on highways or busy city roads.
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- What Is a Sideswipe Accident?
- Why Are Sideswipe Accidents Dangerous?
- Common Injuries Caused by Sideswipe Car Accidents
- Causes of Sideswipe Accidents
- Common Driver Behaviors That Lead to Sideswipe Accidents
- How Can You Protect Yourself from Sideswipe Accidents?
- Legal Options After a Sideswipe Accident
- How Our Lawyers Can Help with Your Sideswipe Accident Claim
- Related Reading
What Is a Sideswipe Accident?
A sideswipe accident happens when two vehicles traveling in the same direction collide on their sides, often during lane changes or merges. Poor visibility and distracted driving are common causes of these accidents.
Why Are Sideswipe Accidents Dangerous?
Sideswipe collisions are particularly hazardous because:
- Vehicles offer less protection from side impacts compared to front or rear crashes.
- The force of impact is felt more directly by passengers, as side panels are less reinforced than bumpers.
- They increase the risk of secondary collisions, like spinning out of control or flipping over, which can be fatal.
Common Injuries Caused by Sideswipe Car Accidents
Sideswipe accidents often lead to serious injuries, including:
- Whiplash: Neck injury caused by sudden movement
- Concussions: Brain injury from head impact
- Broken Bones: Injuries to arms, legs, ribs, or collarbones
- Spinal Injuries: Injuries that can result in paralysis
- Other Injuries: Muscle strains, herniated discs, cuts, and bruises
Causes of Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipe crashes are typically caused by driver negligence, including:
- Distracted driving (e.g., texting or eating)
- Driving under the influence
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Poor road conditions like icy or foggy weather
- Inadequate markings in construction zones
Common Driver Behaviors That Lead to Sideswipe Accidents
Behavioral causes of sideswipe accidents include:
- Failure to signal: Not indicating lane changes
- Distracted or drowsy driving: Lack of attention to the road
- Driving too close: Leading to sudden swerves in traffic
- Unsafe turns: Turning into oncoming traffic without caution
How Can You Protect Yourself from Sideswipe Accidents?
To reduce your risk of a sideswipe accident, follow these safety tips:
- Always use turn signals and check mirrors and blind spots
- Keep your windows and mirrors clean for better visibility
- Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles
- Drive sober and alert, avoiding distractions like phones
- Adjust to weather conditions and slow down as necessary
Legal Options After a Sideswipe Accident
Minnesota’s no-fault insurance laws ensure that personal injury protection (PIP) covers your damages, regardless of fault. However, getting the compensation you deserve can still be challenging, especially when insurers try to minimize your claim or deny responsibility. If your PIP coverage is insufficient, you may have the right to file a fault-based claim against the at-fault driver.
How Our Lawyers Can Help with Your Sideswipe Accident Claim
If you or a loved one has been injured in a sideswipe accident, our experienced lawyers at Sieben Polk P.A. are here to help. We can guide you through the claims process and help you get the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
