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Being involved in a side-swiped car accident can be both alarming and confusing, particularly when it comes to determining fault. Sideswipe incidents often occur unexpectedly, leaving drivers and passengers wondering who is responsible for the damages and injuries that may result. At Andrew Injury Law, we understand the intricacies of sideswipe accidents and are here to help Meridian residents navigate the legal process and seek fair compensation if they’ve been involved in one.
A sideswipe accident occurs when the sides of two vehicles make contact, usually while traveling parallel to each other. Depending on the speed, angle, and type of vehicles involved, these types of accidents can range from minor scrapes to serious collisions. Sideswipes are usual in busy traffic conditions or when drivers are changing lanes without adequate attention. Determining fault can be difficult due to the quick nature of these events, generally requiring a thorough review of the evidence.
Sideswipe car accidents frequently happen due to a variety of driving errors. Here are some of the most common causes:
When cars travel in the same direction, a sideswipe often occurs if one driver changes lanes without checking if it’s clear. Drivers who fail to yield to vehicles already in the lane may be at fault.
Sideswipes in opposite directions typically happen when a driver crosses the centerline, constantly due to impairment or fatigue. In these cases, the users who left their lane may be held responsible.
If you are involved in a side-swiped car accident, taking the following steps may help protect your rights and strengthen any potential claim:
Liability is typically attributed to the driver who left their lane or failed to yield. If both drivers moved simultaneously, the fault may be divided depending on the evidence.
Insurers examine physical evidence, police reports, and witness statements to establish fault. They may also analyze the point of impact, vehicle positions, and any video footage to see who left their lane.
When both drivers attempt lane changes and collide, responsibility may be shared. This is commonly called “comparative negligence,” where each driver may be assigned a percentage of liability.
Proving fault can rely on evidence like photos of the damage, witness statements, and video footage. These help show which driver encroached into the other’s lane.
Sideswipe damage typically appears along the sides of the vehicles involved, such as scrapes, dents, or mirror damage. More severe cases may also result in structural damage, particularly at high speeds.
Paint transfer can help show the direction of impact, but it’s usually just one part of the evidence in a sideswipe case.
Depending on the speed and size of the vehicles, this kind of impact can cause a loss of control or additional collisions.
They are frequent, especially in busy urban areas or on highways where drivers make frequent lane changes.
The legal team at Andrew Injury Law is here to help you seek the compensation you deserve. Managing insurance claims and determining liability can be challenging, but our experienced Meridian Car Accident attorneys are prepared to assist you every step of the way.
To speak with a knowledgeable Car Accident Lawyer, call us at 208-517-7670 or visit us at 3597 E Monarch Sky Lane Suite 240, Meridian, ID 83646. Our team is committed to helping Meridian residents recover from their injuries and protect their rights.
Ready to discuss your case? Contact Andrew Injury Law to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you may be entitled to after a sideswipe accident.
Matt Andrew has been an attorney and member of the Idaho Bar since 2007 and has a varied and fascinating legal career. Since 2013, Matt has focused on representing seriously injured people in personal injury and workers’ compensation cases. Matt has successfully tried multiple cases to verdict before the Idaho District Courts and the Idaho Industrial Commission.
Member of the Idaho Bar since 2007
Bar Number: #7698
Location: Meridian, Nampa, and Caldwell, Idaho.
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This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Attorney Matthew Andrew, who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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