A sideswipe car accident occurs when two vehicles traveling in the same or opposite direction make contact along their sides. While they may seem minor compared to head-on or rear-end collisions, sideswipe collisions can result in serious injuries, especially at high speeds or on busy Houston highways like I-10 or the 610 Loop.
If you’ve been involved in a side-swipe car accident, understanding the legal and financial consequences is essential.. In many cases, determining fault and navigating insurance claims can be complicated. That’s where an experienced Houston car accident attorney can step in.
Common Causes of Sideswipe Collisions
A sideswipe car accident often happens in high-traffic areas or during lane changes. Here are the most common scenarios that lead to these types of accidents:
Unsafe Lane Changes
Drivers who fail to check their blind spots or use turn signals before switching lanes can easily sideswipe another car already occupying the lane.
Distracted Driving
Using a phone, eating, or adjusting the radio can cause a driver to drift into another lane.
Failure to Yield
In merging traffic, like on freeway on-ramps, drivers may misjudge spacing or speed, leading to a side impact.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Speeding reduces reaction time and control, making lane discipline harder and increasing the chances of a sideswipe collision.
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol or drugs impair judgment and control, making erratic lane drifting more likely.
Who Is At Fault in a Sideswipe Accident?
Fault Isn’t Always Obvious
In many sideswipe accidents, the driver who changed lanes is presumed to be at fault. However, Texas follows comparative negligence laws, which means more than one driver can share responsibility.
According to the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, if you’re found partially at fault for an accident, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your level of responsibility. If you’re more than 50% at fault, you may not be eligible for any damages.
This law often applies when:
- Both drivers attempt to switch lanes simultaneously.
- One vehicle was speeding or driving aggressively.
- Road conditions or third-party negligence contributed to the crash.
Proving Fault Requires Evidence
Establishing fault in a sideswipe accident often relies on:
- Dashcam footage
- Eyewitness accounts
- Accident scene photos
- Police reports
- Vehicle damage analysis
Hiring a personal injury attorney in Houston can help you collect and interpret this evidence.
Injuries Resulting from Sideswipe Car Accidents
Even a seemingly minor sideswipe car accident can lead to serious harm, including:
- Whiplash and neck injuries from sudden jolts
- Side-impact trauma to arms, shoulders, and ribs
- Head injuries if the window or pillar is struck
- Loss of vehicle control, leading to rollovers or secondary collisions
Injuries may not appear right away, so it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine.
What To Do After a Sideswipe Accident in Houston
If you’ve been in a sideswipe collision, follow these steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Call 911: Ensure police arrive to document the crash.
- Seek medical attention: Even minor crashes can cause hidden injuries.
- Exchange information: Get the other driver’s name, insurance, and contact details.
- Take photos: Capture all vehicle damage, road conditions, and signage.
- Speak to witnesses: Their statements could support your claim.
- Avoid admitting fault: Let the evidence speak.
- Contact a Houston car accident lawyer, the sooner, the better.
How a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Navigating insurance claims, proving liability, and securing fair compensation in a sideswipe car accident can be overwhelming. At Mokaram Law Firm, we help Houston residents:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly
- Deal with insurance adjusters
- Calculate damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering)
- Pursue a fair settlement or take your case to court if necessary
Don’t Let a Sideswipe Set You Back
A sideswipe accident may seem straightforward, but proving fault and getting compensation can be anything but. Whether your injuries are physical, financial, or emotional, you deserve justice. Don’t let insurance companies downplay your case; let us help you move forward with confidence. Contact Mokaram Law Firm for a free consultation today.
