Side Swipe Collisions

Sideswipe collisions frequently occur when drivers attempt to change lanes without properly checking their blind spots or signaling. These accidents can happen on highways, busy streets, or residential areas. While some sideswipe collisions may seem minor initially, they can quickly lead to more severe crashes, particularly if the vehicles travel at high speeds or one driver loses control after the initial impact. The ripple effect of these accidents can involve multiple vehicles, leading to extensive property damage and injuries. Pedestrians and cyclists in urban areas are also at heightened risk, as they often have little time to react when a vehicle swerves out of its lane.

If you’ve been injured in a sideswipe collision in Prince George’s County, seeking legal representation is essential. The Prince George’s side swipe accident lawyers at Foran & Foran, P.A. understand the long-term impact these accidents can have on your health and finances. Our team will investigate the crash, collect crucial evidence, and pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and any other damages you’ve incurred. Whether the accident was caused by negligent driving, distracted driving, or improper lane changes, we will hold the responsible parties accountable.

Sideswipe collisions occur when two vehicles traveling in the same or opposite direction make contact, often due to improper lane changes or failure to check blind spots. These accidents are frequently caused by distracted driving, speeding, or impaired driving, with one driver veering into another lane without ensuring it’s clear. Heavy traffic conditions, especially in urban areas like Prince George’s County, increase the likelihood of sideswipe collisions as drivers navigate congested roadways and make sudden lane changes.

Sideswipe collisions may seem less severe than head-on or rear-end crashes, but they can escalate quickly, particularly if one or both vehicles lose control. These accidents can lead to multi-vehicle crashes, putting other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians in danger. According to recent data from the Insurance Information Institute, sideswipes account for approximately 3% of fatal crashes nationwide, highlighting the serious risks these accidents pose.

While sideswipe accidents can sometimes result in minor damage, they also have the potential to cause severe injuries, especially if the vehicles involved are traveling at high speeds. When a sideswipe forces one vehicle off the road or into another object, the driver and passengers may suffer significant harm. Common injuries in sideswipe collisions include:

• Whiplash—a sudden jolt can cause the neck to snap back and forth, leading to soft tissue damage;
• Broken bones—impact with another vehicle or fixed objects like guardrails can lead to fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, or ribs;
• Head injuries—drivers and passengers may strike their heads against windows or doors, resulting in concussions or traumatic brain injuries and
• Spinal cord damage—the force of the crash can compress the spine, leading to lasting or permanent disabilities.

According to the Maryland Department of Transportation, Prince George’s County had 3,943 injuries and 140 fatal crashes in 2023, many of which involved sideswipe collisions and other lane-change-related accidents. Victims of these accidents often require extensive medical treatment and face long recovery periods, underscoring the need for appropriate compensation.

Establishing liability in a sideswipe collision is critical to ensuring victims receive compensation for their injuries and damages. In many cases, the driver who initiated the sideswipe is held responsible for failing to maintain their lane or check their blind spot before changing lanes. However, determining liability can be challenging if both drivers claim the other was at fault.

Gathering evidence, such as witness statements, dashcam footage, and traffic camera footage, is essential in proving which driver caused the accident. Additionally, accident reports and testimony from accident reconstruction experts can help clarify how the collision occurred and who should be held accountable. In Prince George’s County, the lawyers at Foran & Foran have the experience and resources to build a strong case and prove fault in sideswipe collisions.

At Foran & Foran, P.A., our Prince George's car accident lawyers have the experience needed to help you effectively bring a sideswipe accident claim, including determining fault and negotiating with insurance companies. We’re committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Don’t let a sideswipe collision derail your life—call us at 301-441-2022 for a free consultation with a skilled attorney who will advocate for your case. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville, and the surrounding areas.