Sideswipe accidents happen often in Alpharetta. A sideswipe occurs when the side of one vehicle collides with the side of another car. And unfortunately, a sideswipe accident can cause severe injuries and damage.
Accidents happen when someone has been careless. If another driver’s carelessness caused your crash, you have rights. You can file a claim to recover your damages, and an Alpharetta sideswipe accident lawyer can help.
Our car accident lawyers know what to do. We have 20 years of experience helping injury victims and their families. To schedule a FREE consultation today, call (404) 341-6555 or contact us online.
Causes of Sideswipe Accidents in Alpharetta
Sideswipe accidents often happen when one or more drivers are careless. Common causes include:
- Failure to yield
- Improper turns
- Incorrect lane changes
- Not checking blind spots
- Merging without signaling
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
Sideswipe accidents can happen on laned roads, at intersections, and more. Many times, the at-fault driver merges into a lane incorrectly. The driver might fail to signal or check their blind spot. The car’s side collides with the other driver’s vehicle side.
Sideswipes can also happen when a vehicle is driving too closely. The cars could be traveling in the same or opposite directions. Either way, the accident can cause significant damages.
Drunk or distracted drivers are often to blame for these crashes. For example, a driver on their phone could veer into another car’s lane and cause an accident. Or, a driver under the influence of alcohol could turn into the wrong lane and cause a crash.
How Fault Works in a Sideswipe Accident
Georgia Code § 51-12-33 covers the state’s fault laws. If you are less than 50% at fault for an accident, you can recover damages. However, the law reduces your compensation based on your percentage of fault.
If the other driver was 100% at fault (which is likely), you can recover all of your costs. You have the right to file a personal injury claim.
Filing an Injury Claim Against the Other Driver
If a driver causes an accident, their insurance company usually covers it. If you were injured, you can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer. But you must prove specific aspects of fault.
Your personal injury claim must show that:
- The driver owed you a duty of care.
- The driver failed in their duty of care (and they were negligent).
- The driver’s failed responsibility led to your accident.
- You have damages from the accident.
All drivers have a “duty” to be careful. If someone doesn’t take reasonable care, it’s known as negligence under Georgia Code § 51-1-2. Your claim must show how the other driver was negligent in your crash.
Building a claim takes time. Plus, you will have to deal with the insurance company—and unfortunately, insurance companies do not like to pay much on injury claims. The insurer might try to blame you or lower your compensation.
You can protect yourself with a trusted lawyer. Our Alpharetta sideswipe accident lawyers can help, and we don’t charge you unless we win your case. Call (404) 341-6555 or contact us online to get a FREE consultation.
Common Accident Damages
Any losses from your accident are your damages. When you build a claim, you’ll need to outline your total damages. Your lawyer will also calculate the worth of your losses.
Economic Damages
Economic damages include:
- Medical bills
- Medication costs
- Lost wages
- Vehicle repairs
You can show these costs through bills and other documentation. After your accident, save all evidence of your costs or future expenses.
Non-Economic Damages
You might also have non-economic damages like:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
- Anxiety or depression
It’s much harder to put a value on these losses. You will need to show how the accident has impacted your life. There is no set dollar amount for pain and suffering, but your lawyer will work to calculate a value.
Steps to Follow After a Sideswipe Accident
After a sideswipe accident, there are actions you can take to build your claim. Here’s what can help you.
Remain Calm and Stay Safe
Any auto accident is overwhelming. First of all, take some deep breaths. Try to remain as calm as possible while you gather information.
If it’s possible, move your vehicle away from oncoming traffic. Don’t leave the scene, but make sure you’re safely out of harm’s way.
Call the Police
Call 911 to report the accident. If you or someone else needs an ambulance, tell the dispatcher. Police officers should arrive at the scene to investigate.
The police should create an accident report on the crash. Be sure to get a copy of this report for your case.
Gather Information
Get as much information as possible at the scene, including:
- The other driver’s name, contact information, and insurance information
- Witnesses’ names and contact information
- Pictures from the accident scene
- Any notes from what you remember
Show your lawyer everything that you gather. They can help you get more information to support your claim.
See a Doctor
See a medical professional after your accident. Even if you feel okay, get a physical exam just in case. Many accident injuries take time to develop.
If you wait too long to see a doctor, it hurts your case. The insurance company will try to say that you weren’t hurt as badly as you claim. Or, the insurer might doubt your injuries altogether.
Be Cautious of the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
Insurance companies are not on your side. The other driver’s insurer will look for ways to pay less than you deserve. For example, they might downplay your injuries or try to use something you say against you.
Talk to an experienced lawyer before talking to the insurance company. Better yet, get a lawyer who will handle all communication with the insurer for you.
Get Help from an Alpharetta Sideswipe Accident Lawyer Today
If another driver caused your sideswipe accident, get help today. You have limited time to file a claim for compensation. A trusted lawyer gives you the best chance at a full recovery.
Our car accident lawyers are here to help. We’ve worked with countless injury victims for over 20 years. Let us match you with the best attorney for your needs.
Call us at (404) 341-6555 or contact us online today for a FREE consultation.
