When two vehicles make contact side-to-side, it is known as a sideswipe accident. Sideswipes occur most often on New York’s highways when drivers attempt to merge, pass or change lanes. If a driver is distracted, careless or negligent, he or she could cause a serious sideswipe collision.
If you get hurt in this type of accident, it is in your best interest to reach out to a local car accident lawyer for a free consultation about your legal options before accepting a settlement. Abaev Law Firm, PLLC has years of experience and millions of dollars won on behalf of our clients.
Typical Injuries From Sideswipes
Although the initial sideswipe accident does not often result in severe or fatal injuries, the aftermath of a sideswipe can escalate the damage. It is a reflex for many drivers to jerk the wheel to try to avoid contact with another car. This could lead to a more serious crash, such as the car veering off the road or crashing into surrounding vehicles.
A sideswipe accident or secondary collision could lead to a variety of painful, expensive and debilitating injuries. Examples include broken bones, soft-tissue injuries, whiplash, spinal cord injuries, concussions, brain injuries, crush injuries and amputations. The trauma of a serious accident can also inflict emotional and psychological harm.
Who Is Liable for a Sideswipe Accident in New York?
New York is one of only 12 no-fault states in the country. Under the no-fault insurance rule, when a car accident occurs, the drivers involved must file claims with their own car insurance companies, regardless of fault. Required amounts of personal injury protection (PIP) insurance can cover a driver’s medical bills and lost wages, even if the driver was not at fault.
However, there are circumstances where it is possible to file a lawsuit against the driver at fault for causing a sideswipe in New York. If the accident results in serious, permanent or fatal injuries, a victim or surviving family member has the right to pursue additional damages outside of the no-fault system.
Types of Compensation Available After a New York Sideswipe Accident
Any losses you sustained or costs you incurred because of a sideswipe accident in New York could potentially be repaid with a successful car accident insurance claim or lawsuit. This includes existing and future medical bills to treat any injuries, property damage repairs, and compensation to make up for lost wages. If you suffered serious injuries that grant you access to file a lawsuit, you could also recover additional compensation, such as pain and suffering.
What Can a Sideswipe Accident Lawyer Do for You?
Recovering from a sideswipe accident can feel overwhelming, especially if you are suffering from serious injuries or extensive costs. When you hire a car accident lawyer to represent you, you gain the peace of mind to fully focus on your physical and emotional recoveries while a lawyer handles legal legwork for you.
A qualified and experienced New York car accident lawyer can take over the claims process to help you achieve a fair and full settlement without you having to deal with insurance companies on your own. A lawyer can investigate the sideswipe crash, determine fault, name the liable party or parties, gather evidence, and use smart legal strategies to secure maximum compensation.
To learn more about a specific sideswipe accident you were recently involved in, contact Abaev Law Firm, PLLC for a free case review in New York. We don’t charge anything in fees unless we win.