Sideswipe collisions happen when one vehicle hits the side of another. In 2015, 824 fatalities and 70,000 injuries resulted from sideswipe collisions, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

If you or a loved one was injured in a sideswipe accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the damages you have suffered, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Request a free, no obligation consultation with the Silver Spring car accident attorneys of Goldberg Finnegan today to learn if you have a case against the driver who caused your accident.

We have a long history of successfully recovering maximum compensation for victims of a variety types of car accidents, such as sideswipe collisions. We will review your claim and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

How Do Sideswipe Collisions Occur?

Driver negligence is a common cause of sideswipe collisions. The following situations are examples of driver negligence that can cause a sideswipe crash:

  • Distracted driving: When a driver is not watching the road, his or her vehicle may drift into another lane, coming into contact with another vehicle. Drivers may not be looking at the road because they are occupied by texting or making phone calls, adjusting the radio, having conversations with passengers, eating or using electronic devices.
  • Reckless driving: If a driver is being aggressive or reckless, changing lanes frequently or engaging in other dangerous driving behaviors, they may cause a sideswipe collision.
  • Speeding: Motorists are at a greater risk of losing control over their vehicle when exceeding posted speed limits, often leading to sideswipe accidents.
  • Driver fatigue: When a motorist is drowsy while driving, he or she may drift into another lane while dozing off, sideswiping another vehicle.
  • Failure to yield: Failing to yield to oncoming traffic while making a turn increases the risk of a sideswipe accident.
  • Driving under the influence: When under the influence of drugs or alcohol while driving, a motorist’s judgement and ability to operate a vehicle are severely impacted, increasing the risk of a sideswipe accident.
  • Overcorrection: When hazards in the road appear or to avoid an imminent car accident, drivers may overcorrect to avoid the hazard, impacting another vehicle.

Injuries Resulting from Sideswipe Accidents

In a sideswipe accident, the impact occurs at the side of the car, where there is less protection to the driver or passengers. The impact of being sideswiped may push the vehicle into a guardrail, pole, tree, signs or other vehicles, causing a second collision and more risk of injuries occurring.

These types of accidents can lead to injuries from minimal cuts and bruising, to debilitating injuries or death. Injuries can range in severity based on a number of factors, such as vehicle size and speed at the time of the accident.

Sideswipe accidents can cause serious injuries, even if the collision appears minor. Common injuries resulting from sideswipe collisions include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Internal organ damage
  • Concussions
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Whiplash
  • Neck injuries
  • Back injuries
  • Bone fractures
  • Knee injuries
  • Hip injuries
  • Cuts
  • Bruises

Get Legal Help After a Sideswipe Collision

The Silver Spring injury lawyers of Goldberg Finnegan are here to assist you if you have been injured in a sideswipe collision. We will investigate your accident to determine who is at fault for your injuries and pursue maximum compensation for the damages you have suffered.

Schedule a free, no obligation consultation and learn the legal options available in your case. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis so there are no upfront fees or risks to you – legal fees are only owed if we recover compensation for your injuries.