Sideswiping accidents can cause damage ranging from some scratches on the vehicle or bruising to catastrophic injuries and multi-car pile-ups. If you or someone you love was hurt when another vehicle collided with yours from the side, then you may have grounds to demand compensation for the losses you suffered in the wreck.
Proving liability in a sideswipe accident can get tricky, especially if there is no video footage of the accident. Often, it’s a case of one driver’s word against the other’s. To sort things out and establish the wreck's root cause (and liability), it’s often necessary to have an Athens, GA, sideswipe collisions accident lawyer get involved. We can help you. Contact Norris Injury Law today for a free case review with one of our attorneys.
What Does An Athens Sideswipe Collisions Accident Lawyer Do?
A sideswipe accident lawyer, like other car accident lawyers, protects the rights of injured victims after a crash. They represent your interests and can even communicate for you, so you don’t have to deal with the other driver, their lawyer, and their insurance company.
Your lawyer can gather evidence showing how the other driver caused the wreck, such as collecting physical evidence, deposing witnesses, and working with an accident reconstructionist to show a jury how the wreck happened. Skilled lawyers also understand what your case is worth, evaluating not just the extent of your physical and economic losses but also your intangible losses, like pain, suffering, and mental turmoil. Their insight can ensure that your settlement is fair.
What Is A Sideswipe Accident?
Sideswipe accidents occur when one vehicle's side scrapes against another's side. They usually happen when both cars are traveling in the same direction but may happen on narrower roads as two cars pass each other. They often happen because one driver isn’t paying close attention, drifting into another lane, or failing to properly check the space around them before merging.
While these accidents may not yield life-threatening injuries like a head-on collision would, this does not mean that those involved escape unscathed. You may have severe injuries that prevent you from working. If the accident is on a freeway, it may start a domino effect and lead to a multi-car pile-up.
Compensation Available In A Sideswipe Car Accident
If you’ve been sideswiped, you have the right to demand fair compensation for your losses, such as:
- Medical bills and rehabilitative therapy
- Missed wages and loss of earning potential
- Replacing or repairing your damaged vehicle
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Diminished quality of life
Our legal team has the experience to properly assign value to all your losses, so the settlement you receive covers your current and future needs.
Getting The Right Legal Advice After A Wreck
Have you been sideswiped by another driver and aren’t sure what to do next? Let an Athens sideswipe collisions accident lawyer from Norris Injury Law help you learn more about your rights and evaluate your legal options. We provide personalized advice in a free consultation and zealous representation of all our clients. Call us today to get started.
Understanding Your Rights After A Car Accident Injury
When injuries result from a car accident they are both overwhelming and disorienting. It’s crucial to know your rights and understand the steps you should take following an accident. At Norris Injury Law, our Athens, GA sideswipe collisions accident lawyer, with more than 60 years of combined experience, will prioritize helping our clients navigate the aftermath of such incidents, ensuring they are well-informed and supported throughout the process.
Immediate Steps After An Accident
The first moments after an accident are critical. Prioritize safety by moving to a secure location and checking for injuries. Contact emergency services to report the accident and seek medical attention, even if injuries appear minor. Documentation is essential—gather information from all involved parties, take photographs of the scene, and note any witnesses.
Seeking Medical Attention
Prompt medical care is vital, not only for your health but also for your legal rights. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a professional evaluation can identify and document all injuries related to the accident. Keep detailed records of all medical treatments and follow-up appointments, as these documents will be important if you need to file a claim.
Understanding Insurance Policies
Insurance companies play a significant role after an accident. Familiarize yourself with the coverage details of your policy. When dealing with insurance adjusters, provide factual information but avoid making statements about fault or the extent of your injuries without legal advice. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts, so having clear documentation and understanding your policy can protect your interests.
Legal Representation
The outcome of your case can be significantly impacted when you secure legal representation. An Athens sideswipe collision accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and advocate on your behalf. Legal professionals can negotiate with insurance companies, gather evidence, and ensure all legal procedures are correctly followed, increasing your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Filing A Claim
When filing a claim, timing is critical. Most states have statutes of limitations that dictate how long you have to file a personal injury claim after an accident. A lawyer can help you meet these deadlines and ensure that all necessary documents are filed accurately. This step is vital to preserve your right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Compensation For Damages
Understanding the types of compensation available can help set realistic expectations for your case. Compensation may cover medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage. An Athens sideswipe collision accident lawyer can provide clarity on what types of compensation you may be eligible for and how to pursue them effectively.
Protecting Your Rights And Securing Compensation
It is essential to protect your health and financial well-being in the wake of a car accident, and it’s important to know your rights and the steps to take after a car accident injury. At Norris Injury Law, we are committed to providing the support and guidance you need during this challenging time. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t hesitate to reach out for a consultation. Let us help you secure the compensation you deserve and ensure your rights are protected. We offer 24/7 call answering.
