En Español
En Español
Call For A Free Consultation
(480) 706-1100
For many, the term “sideswipe” evokes images of a minor fender bender, an annoyance on a busy day. Unfortunately, sideswipe accidents often leave behind more than a mere scratch on the car door.
When the sides of two vehicles come into contact, the result can be injury, damage, and a whirlwind of confusion, especially for the injured party seeking justice. If you have been affected by a sideswipe accident, contact Hastings & Hastings today to schedule a free consultation.
Being sideswiped can be a terrifying experience, and the impact can lead to several types of injuries:
Sometimes the injuries might seem negligible at the scene, but they can have delayed symptom onset. Understanding the potential severity of these injuries is crucial for dealing with your health after the accident.
Understanding the causes of sideswipe accidents can help in both the prevention and post-accident analysis. Some of the common causes include:
Ultimately, sideswipe accidents are often the result of one or both parties not properly observing their environment or being mindful of their actions.
In sideswipe accidents, determining liability can be complex. Here’s a look at who could be responsible:
The most common culprit in sideswipe accidents is a driver who makes an unsafe lane change. This includes failing to signal, not checking blind spots, or misjudging the distance between vehicles. These actions directly compromise the safety of adjacent lanes, leading to potential sideswipe collisions.
There are situations where both drivers simultaneously attempt to change into the same lane from opposite sides, unaware of the other’s intentions. In these cases, both drivers might share liability for the accident, with fault possibly being divided based on each driver’s actions leading up to the collision.
In some cases, external factors such as evasive maneuvers to avoid sudden obstacles or actions by a third party (another vehicle forcing a driver into an adjacent lane) can lead to sideswipe accidents. Here, liability may extend beyond the immediately involved drivers to include other parties whose actions contributed to the incident.
A less common but possible cause of sideswipe accidents is vehicle malfunction, such as steering or brake failure, leading a driver to unintentionally swerve into an adjacent lane. Manufacturers or mechanics who failed to address or caused the malfunction might be found liable in such scenarios.
Sideswipe accidents can result from a variety of factors, and determining liability requires a thorough investigation into the actions and circumstances of all involved parties. A Mesa car accident lawyer can help you do this.
At Hastings & Hastings, our team of Mesa personal injury lawyers understands the turmoil that comes with being in a sideswipe accident. We believe in providing personalized attention to each case, ensuring our clients receive the dedication and expertise they deserve. If you’ve experienced a sideswipe accident and are unsure of your next steps, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.