There are many forms of driver negligence that can lead to accidents. Before you contact the Derrick Law Firm for a free case review, take a closer look at sideswipe collisions. This way, you can understand whether the accident you were in is considered a sideswipe and the most common causes.

Understanding Sideswipe Collisions

A sideswipe collision occurs when two vehicles are going in the same direction. In this type of collision, the left side of one vehicle has an impact on the right side of the other. In most cases, a sideswipe collision occurs because one of the drivers left their lane when they should not have done so. The specific causes for that change in lane can vary greatly, but some are more common than others.

Not Checking Blind Spots

One of the most common causes of a sideswipe collision is when a driver fails to check their blind spot before moving into another lane. If this happens, they may not see that there is already a car in the lane and a collision is imminent. Even with the expansion of blind spot detectors on vehicles, this is still a very common cause of this type of collision.

Driving While Distracted

It is also very common for sideswipe collisions to occur because of some sort of distracted driving. In this type of situation, it is clear that the distracted driver is the party at fault since they likely would not have left their lane if it was not for the distraction. Distracted driving can vary, but includes things like using a smartphone, playing with the infotainment system, or turning to face a passenger while driving.

Intoxicated Driving

Another incredibly common reason that sideswipe collisions occur is from driving while intoxicated. The intoxication can be from alcohol or drugs, either legal or illegal. There is clear evidence that driving while intoxicated slows down reaction times and can lead to erratic driving, such as swerving out of the lane. In cases where intoxication led to a sideswipe collision, a crime was clearly committed.

Reckless Driving

Drivers do not need to have a distraction or be intoxicated to engage in reckless driving. Some drivers simply engage in reckless behaviors such as speeding or road rage. Both of these will shorten reaction times, making it less likely to notice a vehicle in the blind spot. Or reckless driving can lead to waving out of the lane.

Loss Of Vehicle Control

Sideswipe collisions are particularly common on wet or icy

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