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334-333-3333When most people picture a car accident, they often think of head-on crashes or rear-end collisions. However, sideswipe accidents, where vehicles collide side-by-side, are more common and dangerous than many realize.
According to nationwide data compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), sideswipe collisions accounted for over 123,000 injuries and 1,184 fatalities in 2021.
Imagine driving on a busy highway when a car in the next lane suddenly drifts too close, scraping against your vehicle and forcing you to swerve to avoid further impact. These split-second encounters can have serious consequences, especially at high speeds.
Sideswipe impacts are generally the result of negligence or aggressive driving. Here are four common scenarios that can result in a side impact:
A major cause of sideswipe accidents is lane drifting, which occurs when a driver veers out of their lane and crosses into another.
Distractions like texting or using the infotainment system divert a driver’s attention from the road. A distracted driver may struggle to stay aware of road conditions or keep their vehicle on course. According to Drive Safe Alabama, distracted driving contributed to 67 fatalities in the state in 2022.
Another common cause of lane drifting is fatigue and drowsy driving. Driving without sufficient sleep slows reaction times and can lead to episodes of “microsleeping.” While these microsleeps last only a few seconds, they can cause a driver to be asleep long enough to drift out of the lane and into another vehicle.
For example, a driver on a typical interstate highway in Alabama travels at 70 miles per hour or just over 34 yards per second. If drowsiness causes microsleep, even three seconds at that speed means traveling over 100 yards without attention. This is enough time to drift out of the lane and sideswipe another vehicle.
In Alabama, improperly changing lanes isn’t just against the law; it is dangerous and one of the most common causes of side collisions.
Drivers can be responsible for sideswipes by failing to check for blind spots before turning, neglecting to use turn signals, or misjudging speeds and distances before merging. These incidents commonly occur around highway on-ramps, congested intersections, and other busy, multi-lane roads.
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, slow reaction times, and reduce motor skills and coordination—all essential for keeping a vehicle safely within its lane. At higher blood-alcohol concentrations (BAC), vision may become blurred or distorted, making it harder to see lane markers or accurately judge the distance from other vehicles.
These factors increase the risk of swerving, sudden lane changes, and potential sideswipe collisions. Impaired drivers are even more likely to lose control at high speeds, particularly after an impact.
Aggressive driving and road rage involve intentional actions meant to intimidate, scare, or disregard the safety of other drivers. Maneuvers like weaving through traffic, cutting off another driver and then abruptly slowing down (“brake checking”), or speeding in heavy traffic are all examples of aggressive driving, any of which can lead to sideswipe collisions.
While you can’t control how others drive, practicing safe, defensive driving can reduce your risk of an accident. Here are some tips:
One of the simplest ways to stay safe is to remain alert and focused. Get enough sleep and avoid driving when tired. Limit distractions by not texting, eating, or looking at screens. Keeping your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel will help you stay aware of your surroundings.
Defensive driving means anticipating the actions of other drivers and staying prepared. Consider taking a defensive driving course accredited by state agencies like the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) or the National Safety Council (NSC). These classes teach valuable techniques and may even lower your insurance premiums.
Many vehicles have lane departure warning systems (LDWS) to prevent lane drifting. Basic systems provide audible or visual warnings, while more advanced systems, like Lane Centering Assists (LCA), can automatically steer your vehicle back into the lane. Check your owner’s manual for details about your vehicle’s safety features.
Even the most cautious drivers can be involved in a sideswipe accident due to a negligent or aggressive driver. If you were hurt in a side-impact crash, take immediate steps to protect your right to compensation.
Seek medical attention, report the accident to law enforcement, document evidence of the scene, exchange information with witnesses, and keep receipts and bills associated with your injuries. Then, contact an experienced attorney to explore your legal options.
At The Vance Law Firm Injury Lawyers, our team of Montgomery car accident lawyers understands the stress and confusion that follows a car accident. We’re committed to protecting your rights and recovering the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact our law firm for a free consultation, and let us help you get the peace of mind you need.
