Understanding Sideswipe Accidents in New York: Causes, Liability, and What to Do Next
Sideswipe accidents are sudden, jarring, and all too common on New York’s busy roads. Whether caused by reckless lane changes, distracted driving, or a failure to signal, these crashes are often the result of another driver’s negligence. Victims are left to deal with painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and emotional stress, not to mention the confusion of navigating what to do next.
That’s where Denlea & Carton step in. With a focus on uncovering fault, holding negligent parties accountable, and fighting for the compensation you deserve, our team is here to protect your rights and fight for you. If you or a loved one has been injured in a sideswipe accident, contact Denlea & Carton today to get the skilled legal support you need and start your path to justice.
What Exactly is a Sideswipe Accident?
Sideswipe accidents occur when the side of one vehicle collides with the side of another, typically as a result of a driver veering out of their lane or failing to notice another car beside them. These accidents might initially seem minor, but they can be deeply unsettling for those involved. The sudden impact, the sound of crunching metal, and the fear for your safety can leave you shaken long after the crash.
There are many causes of sideswipe accidents, but the most common include reckless lane changes, failure to check blind spots, distracted driving, speeding, and aggressive merging. Such negligence can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may require lengthy recovery periods.
Common Injuries Resulting from Sideswipe Accidents
The severity of these injuries highlight the importance of seeking medical care immediately after a sideswipe accident and taking the necessary steps to protect yourself legally.
Common injuries resulting from sideswipe accidents include:
- Whiplash and other neck injuries
- Broken or fractured bones
- Concussions or traumatic brain injuries
- Cuts, scrapes, and bruises from shattered glass or impact
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Emotional trauma, such as anxiety or PTSD
With Denlea & Carton by your side, you can focus on recovering while we handle the complexities of securing your rights and pursuing the compensation you’re entitled to.
Determining Liability in a Sideswipe Accident
Determining liability in a sideswipe accident can be complicated, especially when different parties may share responsibility. That’s where having a skilled legal team by your side becomes invaluable. Attorneys experienced in personal injury cases know how to gather critical evidence, including witness statements, traffic camera footage, police reports, and crash scene analysis.
At Denlea & Carton, we work diligently to reconstruct the accident, identify negligent behaviors such as unsafe lane changes or distracted driving, and build a strong case that highlights the other driver’s wrongdoing.
New York’s Comparative Negligence Laws
New York’s comparative negligence laws further complicate sideswipe cases because they allow fault to be distributed between drivers based on their degree of responsibility for the crash. This means having a clear understanding of liability is critical when seeking compensation.
If both drivers are partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For instance, if you’re found 20% at fault, you may only recover 80% of the damages awarded.
The other driver’s insurance adjuster may attempt to assign greater blame to you, which is why a strong legal advocate is crucial. A thorough investigation by our White Plains car accident attorneys can work to minimize your liability percentage by presenting solid evidence of the other party’s negligence.
Having knowledgeable personal injury attorneys on your side ensures that your case is handled with precision, paving the way for you to receive the maximum compensation allowed under the law.
What to Do Immediately After a Sideswipe Accident
Experiencing a sideswipe accident can be jarring, but your first priority should always be your personal safety. Start by checking yourself and any passengers for injuries, and, if possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and call for emergency medical assistance if necessary.
To properly protect yourself, you should take these steps after an accident:
- Check for injuries and seek medical attention right away.
- Call the police to file an official report.
- Exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle information with the other driver.
- Take photos or videos of the accident site, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Note down the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Avoid discussing fault or making statements to the other driver’s insurer without legal representation.
Navigating the aftermath of a sideswipe collision can feel daunting, but Denlea & Carton is here to guide you every step of the way. Our team will help you understand the legal process, advocate for your best interests, and work tirelessly to ensure you recover the compensation you deserve for damages and injuries caused by someone else’s negligence.
When to Contact a New York Car Accident Lawyer
Recovering after a sideswipe accident in New York requires knowing your rights and taking steps to protect them. With injuries, property damage, and financial losses at stake, having a clear plan is essential to secure the compensation you deserve. Denlea & Carton is here to provide the legal guidance you need, backed by years of experience and a deep commitment to helping clients overcome the challenges they face after an accident.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a sideswipe accident, now is the time to act. The dedicated team at Denlea & Carton is ready to investigate your case, hold negligent parties accountable, and fight aggressively for the compensation you’re entitled to. Trust us to guide you through the process with professionalism and care, so you can focus on your physical recovery with confidence. Contact us today to get started on your claim.
