A careless or reckless driver in Laredo could make many mistakes that ultimately result in a sideswipe accident. If you get involved in this type of crash, you may be entitled to financial compensation from the other driver’s car insurance provider. Find out what to do after a sideswipe accident, and when it is best to hire a Laredo car accident attorney for this particular type of claim.
What Is a Sideswipe Accident?
A sideswipe accident describes a motor vehicle crash where the sides of two vehicles come into contact while traveling in the same or opposite directions. Sideswipe accidents can range from minor collisions to severe car crashes, depending on the speeds of both vehicles, the location of the accident and the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Steps to Take After a Laredo Sideswipe Accident
After getting involved in a sideswipe accident in Laredo, take the following steps to preserve your physical health and legal rights:
- Pull over and check yourself for injuries.
- Seek medical care without delay.
- Call 911 from the scene to immediately report the wreck.
- Write down the other driver’s name and insurance information.
- Record a description of the other driver’s vehicle, including license plate numbers.
- Do not admit fault for the sideswipe accident.
- Take photos of the crash scene and the damage to both vehicles before you leave.
- Notify your car insurance company about the collision.
- Contact the at-fault driver’s car insurance company to file a claim.
- Before accepting a settlement offer, consult with the car accident lawyer in Laredo.
If you can’t complete all of these steps, don’t worry – hiring an experienced lawyer in Laredo can allow you to protect your rights regardless.
Why Do Sideswipe Accidents in Laredo Take Place?
Sideswipe accidents are typically caused by driver error and negligence, meaning the failure of an individual to exercise proper care. Sideswipe crashes can be prevented by drivers paying attention to the road and obeying Texas traffic laws.
The most common causes of sideswipe accidents in Laredo include:
- Unsafe or illegal lane changes
- Drivers failing to check blind spots or signal lane changes
- Improper merging
- Unintentionally drifting between lanes
- A vehicle crossing over the center line and into oncoming traffic
- Parking lot accidents (maneuvering in and out of parking spaces)
- Traffic violations, such as speeding or distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driving while fatigued
Sideswipe accidents can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, brain injuries, neck injuries, whiplash and spinal cord injuries. It is important to seek legal representation from a Laredo drunk driving accident attorney if a sideswipe accident causes severe or catastrophic injuries.
Who Pays for a Sideswipe Accident in Laredo?
Texas is a fault car accident state, meaning the person at fault for causing a sideswipe accident is responsible for paying. As an injured victim, you or your car accident lawyer must prove fault. This typically requires an investigation into the cause of the accident.
An attorney can help you collect relevant evidence to support your case, such as police reports, photographs and witness statements. If your lawyer can establish fault, you can recover financial compensation for your medical bills and property damage.
How a Laredo Sideswipe Accident Lawyer Can Help You
Sideswipe accident cases can be complex and difficult to navigate, especially if you are dealing with physical injuries and emotional distress. Hire a qualified Laredo injury lawyer for a more effective legal process without the stress. Your lawyer can determine and prove fault, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to seek fair compensation on your behalf.
For more information, request a free sideswipe accident case review in Laredo at Gonzalez Druker Law Firm, PLLC.