Sideswipe Accident Lawyer in Florence

two cars involved in a sideswipe accident

Were you injured because someone else sideswiped your car in Florence, South Carolina? If so, you could be owed money, and the attorneys at Jebaily Law Firm want to help you demand it. Time is of the essence when filing a personal injury lawsuit after a sideswipe crash. The sooner you act, the better.

Don’t wait another moment. Contact Jebaily Law Firm now for a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in Florence, SC.

What Is a Sideswipe Accident?

A sideswipe accident is a collision in which the sides of two motor vehicles strike each other. These accidents often occur when a vehicle drifts out of its lane and into the vehicle next to it. The impact can cause damage to the sides of each car and the rims and tires. Additionally, they can cause one or both drivers to lose control and collide with other vehicles or objects on the road, leading to severe injuries.

Most Common Causes of Sideswipe Accidents

Several factors can contribute to sideswipe collisions, including:

Distracted driving – When drivers get distracted by their phones, passengers, or anything other than the safe operation of their vehicles, they may drift out of their lane. If a driver is not focused on the road, there is an increased risk that they sideswipe another vehicle.
Driver fatigue – Tired drivers have slower reaction times and are often less aware of their surroundings. As a result, fatigue may lead to a sideswipe collision.
Intoxication – Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have impaired coordination and judgment. They are at greater risk of causing a sideswipe collision because they have less control over their vehicle and less awareness of their surroundings.
Improper lane changes – Drivers who fail to signal or check their blind spots before changing lanes risk colliding with vehicles next to them of which they are unaware.

Who Is at Fault in a Sideswipe Accident?

Who is at fault for a sideswipe car accident depends on the specific circumstances of the collision. Generally speaking, the driver who drifts into another lane or fails to maintain their lane is liable for the crash.

However, sideswipe collisions may sometimes be caused by poor road conditions or defective car parts. In those cases, manufacturers or government entities may be responsible for their contribution to the collision.

When determining who is at fault for a sideswipe accident, attorneys and insurance adjusters will look at evidence like:

Photos and videos of the collision, including damage to vehicles, skid marks on the road, traffic signals, and debris
Statements from any eyewitnesses who saw the accident
Police reports of the collision, which contain information about the crash and the responding officer’s initial determination of fault
Medical records of the injuries sustained in the collision, including bills, receipts, and doctor’s notes

By gathering and maintaining evidence to support your case, you help your attorney build a strong argument for why you are entitled to compensation.

Injuries in Sideswipe Accidents

Injuries resulting from sideswipe accidents can be severe, including these examples:

Whiplash – This is a common injury in sideswipe collisions, occurring when the head and neck snap back and forth. The sudden movement causes strain on the muscles and ligaments in the neck, causing soft-tissue damage that is often invisible in diagnostic tests.
Concussion – This traumatic brain injury occurs when the head is jolted or shaken violently. The sudden force of impact of a sideswipe accident could cause a concussion, especially if your head strikes an object in the cabin.
Broken bones – The impact of a sideswipe collision can cause fractures, especially in the extremities.
Soft tissue injuries – This can include bruises, sprains, and strains, which can occur during a sideswipe collision if your body is jolted or twisted.
Joint injuries – The delicate structures of the knees, ankles, wrists, shoulders, and other joints are susceptible to injuries in sideswipe collisions.
Internal injuries – Damage to internal organs and internal bleeding can be a stealthy result of a crash, and a good reason to get a thorough medical exam.

Compensation Available After a Sideswipe Accident in Florence

If someone else caused the sideswipe accident, they could owe you compensation for the following losses such as:

Medical expenses – You can seek money for both past and future medical expenses. To do this, your attorney will consider the bills you incurred and whether you need ongoing treatment.
Lost wages – If you cannot work because of your injuries, you can seek compensation for the income you lost as a result.
Reduced earning capacity – If you can work but not at the same capacity as before the collision, you can demand compensation for the money you will no longer be able to make in the future.
Loss of enjoyment of life – Long-term injuries could affect your ability to participate in the activities you enjoy. You should be compensated for this reduction in your quality of life.
Pain and suffering – Sideswipe collisions can cause tremendous physical pain and emotional distress. These are no less real or impactful than other losses, and you deserve to be compensated for them.

An attorney can review your situation and determine the extent of your compensable losses.

What Should I Do After a Sideswipe Accident?

If you have been involved in a sideswipe collision, you should do the following to protect your interests:

Seek immediate medical attention. Your health is your priority after a crash. Even if you don’t at first think that you’ve suffered serious injuries, get checked out anyway. A medical exam could save your life by revealing hidden injuries that could become life-threatening without timely treatment.
Keep detailed records. You should keep detailed records of your medical bills, lost wages, and any other losses you suffered. You can provide strong support for your compensation claim by keeping detailed records.
Keep a journal. Creating and maintaining a journal about your pain levels and disabilities can substantiate your claim. You can use it to show in your own words how your injury affects your daily life.
Contact our experienced sideswipe accident lawyers. Our Florence sideswipe collision attorneys can help you understand your legal rights. We can deal with the insurance company for you, negotiate for a fair settlement, and take your case to court if the insurer doesn’t cooperate.

Contact an Experienced Florence Sideswipe Accident Attorney Today

If you were the victim of a sideswipe collision in Florence, SC, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. The sideswipe car accident lawyers of Jebaily Law Firm are dedicated and experienced attorneys who know how to investigate these cases and pursue full and fair compensation.