Understanding sideswipe collisions

When one vehicle collides with the side of another car, the official report generally classifies it as a sideswipe collision. The public may not focus on these accidents as much as rear-end and head-on collisions, but they result in a significant number of total accidents each year. In fact, around 104,000 Americans sustained injuries from sideswipe collisions in 2015 alone, according to data from the Insurance Information Institute.

You may be able to receive compensation for lost wages, medical expenses and other costs by taking legal action following such an accident. It is vital to maintain a vigilant eye while on Colorado roadways to avoid these sudden and potentially deadly collisions.

What causes sideswipe collisions?

There are numerous ways one car can sideswipe another. Many times it occurs as a result of distracted driving, when one driver did not pay attention to the road, swerved into the neighboring lane and hit another vehicle. Additional causes include:

• Reckless driving
• Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Driving while tired
• Failing to yield
• Speeding

Sideswipe collisions are more prone to occur when two lanes merge. This happens frequently near highway entrance ramps. Both vehicles need to remain aware of the other nearby and take the necessary actions, so everyone can merge safely.

What injuries can people sustain from these accidents?

Many factors influence the severity of injuries people from both vehicles sustain. It is entirely possible for a car to swipe the side of your vehicle and for you to only end up with a few bruises and scratches if anything at all. However, depending on the size of the other vehicle and the speed at which both cars collided, it is also possible to sustain brain injuries, spinal cord damage, whiplash, fractures and more. Sideswipe collisions are among the most difficult to prove fault in, so it will likely work to your advantage to gather as much evidence as possible.

Category:

• Car Accidents