Stockton Sideswipe Accident

When you are driving, you must pay attention and stay in your lane. If you plan to merge or change lanes, checking to make sure the way is clear is a prudent and responsible action. Unfortunately, not everyone takes this kind of care when driving, which leads to sideswipe accidents.

A violent side impact can leave you more than just visibly shaken. You may suffer serious spinal injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries due to another driver who failed to pay attention. At Brown & Gessell, our car accident attorneys are committed to assisting victims in these situations, armed with knowledge of state and local laws to fight for the compensation they deserve.

Understanding Sideswipe Accidents in Stockton

Sideswipe accidents commonly occur in Stockton on Interstate 5, Highway 99, and at numerous congested intersections. Usually, one driver veers into another driver’s lane, making contact. These types of crashes go far beyond vehicle damage. Depending on the speed of the vehicles, injuries can range from whiplash and concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding.

Common Causes and Outcomes of Sideswipe Accidents

Unsafe Lane Changes

When a driver fails to fully check their blind spots before changing lanes, they can sideswipe another vehicle. This is the top cause of how this kind of crash occurs.

Improper Merging

The next frequent cause of sideswipe accidents is when a driver miscalculates their speed and the gaps available when they enter or exit a highway.

Distracted Driving

Drivers who text, eat, fiddle with the stereo, or do other things while they are driving often drift into neighboring lanes without noticing until there is an impact.

Aggressive Driving Behavior

While drivers should be paying attention, distractions are not aggressive behaviors. Some drivers are impatient and will weave in and out of traffic while speeding. Their anger and lack of control over their emotions may cause them to misjudge the space or worse, sideswipe another vehicle on purpose.

Drunk or Drowsy Drivers

Both drunk and drowsy drivers are slower to react or may not notice another vehicle in the adjacent lane.

Poorly Arranged Construction Zones

Construction zones that have reduced the lane widths, such as on I-5, can make it harder for drivers to stay in their lanes, even if they are being cautious.

Importance of Legal Representation From a Stockton Sideswipe Accident Lawyer

Sideswipe accident victims need legal representation because this type of crash can quickly become contentious. Each driver will blame the other, and since California uses a fault-based system, it is imperative to determine who is at fault.

An additional layer of complexity is added through the pure comparative negligence rule. While it allows an injured victim to recover compensation even if they were up to 99% at fault, it can significantly diminish the compensation award.

The other driver and their insurance company will try to blame you to reduce your settlement, and having an attorney ensures that someone will actively be investigating and negotiating for your best interests.

How Brown & Gessell Can Assist Sideswipe Accident Victims

Conducting Comprehensive Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Stockton sideswipe accidents usually involve disputes over liability. Our attorneys analyze the evidence from the scene, including paint transfer and vehicle damage patterns, along with skid marks, to determine the exact point of impact. Along with accident reconstructionists, we will review the science behind what happened and take witness statements to determine liability and develop a strong case strategy.

Maximizing Your Compensation Through Negotiations

Our Stockton accident injury attorneys work to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, future costs of your injuries, lost wages, property damage, and the emotional distress you have endured. Insurers commonly use an array of tactics to lowball their offers, but our sideswipe accident attorneys will not back down to get you what is fair.

Dedicated Client Support and Accessibility

We recognize that the physical injuries you have endured can impose serious limitations and impact your mental well-being. Brown & Gessell offers free initial consultations to help you determine the best course of action and makes it convenient to discuss your case with no upfront fees. You will not have to pay us anything unless we get you a settlement or a winning verdict.

Steps to Take After a Sideswipe Accident

• Assess your injuries, as well as those of any passengers in your vehicle, and if possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid additional collisions
• Call 911 to have the police document the incident with a police report
• Exchange contact and insurance information with the driver of the other vehicle
• Document with photos and videos
• Get witness contact information and statements
• Seek immediate medical attention, even for minor injuries, and keep track of your medical records
• Contact a Stockton car accident attorney to protect your legal rights

The Legal Process Explained

Sideswipe accident legal help in Stockton is essential if you want to avoid blame. You will need to submit your evidence to the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If they offer a settlement that is too low, your attorney can negotiate on your behalf.

When you are still not being offered what is fair for your injuries, your lawyer can begin the lawsuit process. Negotiations will continue until an agreement is reached, or the case will go to trial before a judge or jury.

Compensation: What Victims Need to Know

You deserve to be compensated for the medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial ramifications incurred as a result of the other driver’s negligent actions. Since California allows shared fault, do not let false blame rob you of what you deserve. Let Brown & Gessell stand up for your legal rights and help you move forward.

The Advantage of Choosing Brown & Gessell as a Car Crash Lawyer in Stockton

A Stockton car accident lawyer from Brown & Gessell will thoroughly evaluate and prepare your case to maximize your compensation. Our attorneys provide free initial case reviews and are here to help you every step of the way through this process. Schedule your free consultation today to learn more about your legal options after a sideswipe crash.