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How to Handle Sideswipe Accidents

Sideswipe crashes are common.  It only takes a momentary lapse in concentration or a slight maneuver in the wrong direction for the sides of two vehicle to make contact. In fact, sideswipes can end up costing you more in damages than they appear and are often the catalyst to a more serious collision.  Often times determining which party is liable for the accident is disputed.  Having an attorney on your side can be very beneficial.

HOW SIDESWIPES HAPPEN

 Sideswipes usually occur when one vehicle moves into another vehicle's lane.  This can be caused by distracted, reckless, drowsy or drunk driving, as well as drivers failing to check blind spots, merging at the same time or skidding on a slippery road. Sideswipes can also happen to a parked vehicle.

POSSIBLE DANGERS

 Although the initial contact may not be major, the impact may be enough for either or both drivers to lose control of their vehicle.  It is common for motorists to oversteer to try to regain control, which may lead to swerving and hitting other objects like trees, guardrails, light posts or other vehicles or pedestrians. In the worst case a rollover crash can occur.

WHAT TO DO

 Treat a sideswipe like any other motor vehicle accident.  Check to make sure all parties for injuries and call 911 for police and medical assistance if necessary.  Move your vehicle to a safe place if it is drivable and engage your hazard lights.  Follow any responding police officer's directions, but make sure to exchange information with the other driver including name, address, vehicle information and insurance information along with driver's license and registration numbers.  Given that almost all cell phones today have a camera, use this to take photos of not only the damage to the vehicles but also of driver's licenses, vehicle plates and vehicle registration.  These photographs will be critical in determining who is at fault for the accident and making sure you have the necessary information to file an insurance claim.

FILING A CLAIM

 If you have been injured make sure to inform your insurance company after you have sought medical treatment and provide them with as many details as you can.  If you are not sure or not comfortable speaking with your insurance company, it is important you consult with an experienced attorney before making any statements to any insurance company especially the other vehicle's insurer.

Attorney Joseph F. De Leo is a lawyer with over twenty-eight years experience handling personal injury claims serving the entire greater Boston area. He can be reached at jdeleo@deleolaw.com or by visiting Deleolaw.com

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