Seattle Sideswipe Accident Lawyer

Sideswipe accidents are among the most overlooked types of car collisions, yet they can result in severe injuries, costly vehicle damage, and emotional trauma. These accidents occur when the side of one vehicle collides with the side of another, often due to negligent or reckless driving. If you or a loved one has been involved in a sideswipe accident in Seattle, you may face mounting medical bills, lost wages, and other challenges. Seeking legal guidance from an experienced Seattle car accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses. Call the Seattle sideswipe accident attorneys at Brumley Law Firm at (833) 832-2727 to schedule your free consultation today.

What Causes Sideswipe Accidents?

Sideswipe accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to:

  1. Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, eating, or otherwise distracted may inadvertently veer into another lane, causing a serious distracted driving collision.
  2. Failure to Check Blind Spots: Changing lanes without properly checking blind spots is a common cause of sideswipe accidents, especially in congested urban areas like Seattle.
  3. Aggressive Driving: Speeding, tailgating, and other forms of aggressive driving increase the likelihood of sideswiping another vehicle.
  4. Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers often have reduced reaction times and poor judgment, leading to errors like drifting out of their lane.
  5. Poor Road Conditions: Slippery roads, debris, or poorly marked lanes can also contribute to the incidence of sideswipe accidents.

Common Injuries in Sideswipe Accidents

While sideswipe collisions may appear less severe than head-on crashes or rear-end crashes, the injuries they cause can still be significant. Common injuries our Seattle sideswipe accident lawyers typically see include:

  • Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The sudden jolting motion during a collision can strain neck muscles and ligaments.
  • Broken Bones: The impact can cause fractures, particularly to the arms and legs.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even a minor impact can result in a concussion or more severe brain trauma. Our Seattle brain injury lawyers can assist with this type of case.
  • Soft Tissue Injuries: Bruising, sprains, and strains are common.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI) Severe collisions can result in spinal cord injuries, often resulting in either partial or complete paralysis.

seattle sideswipe accident lawyer

Determining Liability in a Sideswipe Accident

Proving liability in a sideswipe accident is crucial to securing compensation. Typically, liability is established by demonstrating negligence on the part of one or more drivers. Evidence that may be used to determine fault includes:

  • Police Reports: Police reports provide a detailed account of the accident and initial determinations of fault.
  • Witness Statements: Testimonies from bystanders can help clarify what happened.
  • Dashcam or Surveillance Footage: Video evidence can be invaluable in proving negligence.
  • Expert Testimony: Accident reconstruction experts can analyze the scene and provide insights into how the collision occurred.

Washington State follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, which means you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found 20% responsible, you would still recover 80% of your damages.

How a Seattle Sideswipe Accident Lawyer Can Help

Navigating the legal process after a sideswipe accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from injuries. A skilled attorney can provide the support and guidance you need by:

  • Investigating the Accident: Gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working with experts to build a compelling case.
  • Communicating with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive maximum compensation.
  • Filing a Lawsuit: If a settlement cannot be reached, your Seattle personal injury attorney can take your case to court to seek justice.
  • Calculating Damages: Accurately assessing the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future costs.

Compensation for Sideswipe Accident Victims

Victims of sideswipe accidents may be entitled to various types of compensation, such as:

  • Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and ongoing care.
  • Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to your inability to work.
  • Property Damage: Costs for repairing or replacing your vehicle.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
  • Punitive Damages: In cases involving extreme negligence or recklessness, additional damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party.

Contact Our Seattle Sideswipe Accident Attorneys Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a sideswipe accident, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Call us now at (833) 832-2727 or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation today. Let our Seattle sideswipe accident lawyers help you on the path to recovery and justice.