The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2021 there were more than 830,000 sideswipe accidents, constituting 13% of all traffic collisions. Sideswipe accidents occur when two vehicles traveling side by side make contact.
Unlike rear-end collisions or head-on crashes, sideswipe accidents might seem less severe. However, they are surprisingly common and can result in serious consequences. Our Long Island car accident attorney at The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III, is here to shed light on why sideswipe accidents are particularly dangerous to motorists.
Understanding Sideswipe Accidents
A sideswipe accident happens when the sides of two vehicles touch while moving in the same or opposite direction. These collisions often occur when one vehicle drifts out of its lane, or a driver makes an improper lane change. The resulting impact can cause both vehicles to lose control, leading to more severe crashes.
At The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III, we have seen the impact and aftermath of these accidents. We will help victims prove liability and recover the full compensation they deserve.
Common Causes of Sideswipe Accidents
Several factors contribute to sideswipe accidents, including driver error, distractions, and environmental conditions. Understanding these causes can help you avoid becoming a victim of such accidents.
Improper Lane Changes
Improper lane changes are a primary cause of sideswipe accidents. These occur when a driver fails to follow the correct procedures for changing lanes, leading to unintentional contact with another vehicle.
Improper lane changes usually happen when drivers switch lanes without signaling or checking their blind spots. This can result from impatience, lack of attention, or inexperience. Common actions include:
- Failure to Signal: One common mistake is failing to use turn signals when changing lanes. This leaves other drivers unaware of the intended maneuver, increasing the risk of collision.
- Not Checking Blind Spots: Another frequent error is neglecting to check blind spots. Vehicles in these areas are invisible in side mirrors, so looking over your shoulder before changing lanes is essential.
Merging Errors
Merging errors contribute to many sideswipe accidents. These occur when drivers fail to merge properly, either by entering a lane without enough space or overlapping lanes. This can include:
- Merging Without Sufficient Space: One common mistake is merging into a lane without leaving enough space between vehicles. This forces other drivers to brake suddenly or swerve, increasing the likelihood of a sideswipe collision.
- Overlapping Lanes During Merging: Another error is overlapping lanes during merging. This occurs when a driver moves into a new lane without fully exiting their original lane, creating a high risk of sideswipe accidents.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a major contributor to sideswipe accidents. When drivers divert their attention from the road, they are more likely to drift into adjacent lanes.
Driving in Blind Spots
Blind spots are areas around a vehicle that the driver cannot see using mirrors alone. Driving in these areas increases the risk of sideswipe accidents, and failing to check blind spots significantly increases the risk. Awareness of these areas and proper mirror adjustments can help prevent collisions.
Aggressive Driving and Road Rage
Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating and rapid lane changes, contribute to sideswipe accidents. These actions create dangerous situations on the road. This may include:
- Tailgating: Tailgating, or following too closely, reduces the time to react to sudden stops or lane changes, leading to sideswipe accidents.
- Rapid Lane Changes: Frequent and rapid lane changes increase the risk of sideswipe collisions by creating confusion and reducing the predictability of traffic flow.
Poor Weather Conditions
Adverse weather conditions can also increase the risk of sideswipe accidents by reducing visibility and traction. Poor weather conditions make it harder for drivers to see other vehicles and maintain control of their own, leading to sideswipe collisions.
Vehicle Malfunctions
Vehicle malfunctions, such as brake failure, steering issues, or tire blowouts, can significantly increase the risk of sideswipe accidents. When drivers experience these critical failures, they may lose control of their vehicles, leading to unpredictable movements on the road. This loss of control can result in collisions with other vehicles, especially in tight lanes or during heavy traffic.
Inadequate Road Design or Markings
Poor road design or unclear markings can lead to sideswipe accidents by causing confusion and reducing the predictability of traffic flow. Inadequate road design or unclear markings make it harder for drivers to stay in their lanes and anticipate other vehicles’ actions. This can include:
- Insufficient Lane Width: Narrow lanes increase the likelihood of sideswipe accidents by reducing the space available for vehicles to maneuver.
- Poorly Marked Lanes: Unclear lane markings make it difficult for drivers to stay in their lanes and anticipate other vehicles’ actions, increasing the risk of sideswipe collisions.
Why Are Sideswipe Accidents So Dangerous?
Sideswipe accidents are particularly dangerous due to the following:
Increased Risk of Secondary Collisions
Sideswipe accidents often lead to secondary collisions as vehicles veer into other lanes or off the road. These additional impacts can cause more severe injuries and damage.
High Potential for Serious Injuries
Sideswipe accidents can cause serious injuries, such as whiplash, head trauma, and fractures. The force of the impact and subsequent loss of control contribute to the severity of these injuries.
Difficulty in Controlling the Vehicle
The force of a sideswipe impact can make it difficult for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles, leading to further collisions and increasing the risk of injury.
Impact on Vehicle Stability
Sideswipe accidents can affect a vehicle’s alignment and overall stability, making it harder for drivers to regain control and avoid additional collisions.
Factors Contributing to the Danger of Sideswipe Accidents
Several factors increase the chances of dangerous sideswipe accidents. These include:
Speed and Impact Force
The speed at which vehicles travel influences the severity of sideswipe collisions. Higher speeds increase impact forces, increasing the risk of serious injuries and damage.
Vehicle Type and Size
The size and type of vehicles involved in sideswipe accidents can affect the collision’s severity. Larger vehicles, such as trucks, can cause more damage and injuries to smaller passenger cars.
Driver Behavior and Errors
Distracted or impaired driving significantly contributes to the danger of sideswipe accidents. Errors in judgment and reaction time increase the likelihood of collisions.
Road and Weather Conditions
Adverse road and weather conditions exacerbate the danger of sideswipe accidents. Reduced visibility, traction, and road design can all contribute to the severity of these incidents.
If you are injured in a crash due to another driver’s action, you must immediately seek help from an injury attorney in Long Island. After an accident, a Long Island injury lawyer can help you gather the evidence you need to prove your case against the responsible party.
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyer in Long Island
Our Long Island car crash lawyer is here to help with your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III today for a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
