If you’ve been hurt in a sideswipe accident on a Missouri road, you may be facing painful injuries, medical expenses, and uncertainty about who is responsible. Sideswipe crashes often happen when a driver drifts out of their lane, merges without signaling, or fails to check blind spots, leaving innocent drivers to deal with the aftermath. Determining liability in these accidents can be complicated, but that’s where we come in.
At Cooper Law Firm, our Cape Girardeau car accident attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and guide you through the claims process. We take on the hard work of investigating your crash, proving fault, and handling insurance negotiations, so you can focus on healing. Our goal is to make your voice heard and secure the compensation you need for medical bills, lost income, and other damages. Reach out today for a free consultation and let our team stand by your side as you take the next steps toward recovery.
What Is a Sideswipe Accident?
A sideswipe accident happens when two cars traveling in the same direction brush against each other, usually during lane changes or merging. Even though it might seem minor at first, these accidents can cause a range of injuries, from aches and bruises to more serious problems. In Cape Girardeau, busy roads make sideswipes more common than you might think.
What Causes Sideswipe Accidents?
Sideswipe accidents often happen when drivers aren’t able to keep their vehicles fully within a lane or misjudge the space between cars. This can occur when someone changes lanes without signaling, drifts due to distraction or fatigue, or weaves through traffic. Speeding or aggressive driving can make it even harder for drivers to react in time.
Even small lapses in attention, like checking a phone or adjusting the radio, can lead to a sideswipe collision in seconds. Weather and road conditions like rain, fog, or ice can reduce visibility and make it harder to maintain control. Narrow lanes or poorly marked roads also increase the risk of side-to-side contact. Drivers who fail to adjust to these conditions or misjudge the movement of other vehicles can cause accidents that might have been avoided, highlighting the importance of staying alert and cautious behind the wheel.
Common Injuries in Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipe accidents often involve a sudden jolt or scraping impact along the side of the vehicle, which is why certain injuries are more common. These collisions can cause:
- Whiplash and neck strain: Rapid side-to-side movement can stretch or tear neck muscles and ligaments.
- Back and spinal injuries: The force of impact can compress the spine or damage discs.
- Broken or fractured bones: Arms, legs, or ribs may hit the door, window, or interior during the collision.
- Bruises and cuts: Contact with the car interior, seatbelt, or airbags often results in bruising and lacerations.
- Head injuries, including concussions: Sudden movement or hitting the window or steering wheel can cause traumatic brain injuries.
- Shoulder, arm, or leg injuries: Bracing for impact or being thrown sideways can strain or break limbs.
- Soft tissue injuries: Muscles, tendons, and ligaments are often damaged from sudden twisting or forceful contact.
- Emotional or psychological effects: The shock and stress of the accident can lead to anxiety or difficulty sleeping.
What to Do After Someone Sideswipes You
- Check for injuries immediately: Make sure you and any passengers are safe; seek medical attention even for minor pain.
- Move to a safe location: If possible, get your vehicle out of traffic to prevent additional accidents.
- Call the police: Having an official accident report helps document the incident for insurance or legal purposes.
- Document the scene: Take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and the surrounding area.
- Exchange information: Get the other driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details.
- Avoid admitting fault: Let the authorities and your insurance company determine liability.
- Keep records of your medical care: Note doctor visits, treatments, and any prescriptions related to the accident.
- Notify your insurance company promptly: Report the sideswipe accident accurately, but stick to the facts.
- Contact a sideswipe accident attorney: A car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure your claim is handled properly.
Who Is at Fault in a Sideswipe Accident in Missouri?
Determining fault in a sideswipe accident in Missouri can be complicated because these collisions often involve split-second decisions, multiple vehicles, and varying road conditions. Liability may depend on who was changing lanes, whether proper signals were used, or if a driver was distracted or speeding. In some cases, both drivers may share responsibility, especially if one driver was drifting out of their lane while the other was not maintaining a safe distance. Missouri follows a comparative fault system, which means that each party’s degree of responsibility can affect how damages are awarded.
Compensation Available for Sideswipe Accident Victims
- Medical expenses: Coverage for hospital visits, doctor appointments, medications, surgeries, and ongoing therapy.
- Lost wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to time off work for recovery.
- Property damage: Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and any personal items damaged in the accident.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical discomfort, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Permanent injuries or disability: Financial support for long-term or permanent effects caused by the accident.
- Rehabilitation and future care: Costs for physical therapy, counseling, or other treatments needed after the accident.
- Out-of-pocket expenses: Travel, home care, or other accident-related costs not covered elsewhere.
Factors That Affect a Sideswipe Accident Settlement
Several factors can influence the value of a sideswipe accident settlement. The severity of injuries and the cost of medical treatment are often the most significant considerations, with serious or ongoing medical needs typically increasing the potential settlement.
Determining fault also plays a major role. If liability is disputed or multiple drivers share responsibility, negotiations can take longer and affect the amount offered. Other factors include the amount of property damage, whether you have clear documentation like photos or police reports, and the impact of the accident on your daily life and ability to work.
Advantages of Hiring a Sideswipe Accident Attorney
Working with a sideswipe car accident attorney can make a big difference in how smoothly your claim progresses and the settlement you receive. Some of the key benefits include:
- Organized documentation: An attorney gathers and organizes essential records, such as medical files, accident reports, and witness statements, to help prevent delays.
- Protection against insurance tactics: If the insurance company questions your claim or tries to minimize your settlement, your lawyer ensures your case is properly represented.
- Accurate claim valuation: An attorney knows how to calculate the full value of your case—including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future damages.
- Stronger negotiations: With legal representation, you have a skilled advocate pushing for the full compensation you deserve.
- Less stress for you: While your lawyer handles the legal details, you can stay focused on your recovery and rebuilding your life after the crash.
Protect Your Rights With a Cape Girardeau Sideswipe Accident Lawyer
Being involved in a sideswipe accident can leave you dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, and the stress of filing a personal injury claim. At Cooper Law Firm, our car accident attorneys are ready to help you understand your options, gather the right documentation, and make sure your claim reflects the full impact of the accident. We focus on guiding you through each step so you can concentrate on recovering and understanding your options.
We will communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, address any disputes that arise, and help you pursue the compensation you need for medical care, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses. Reach out to Cooper Law Firm today for a free consultation and let our team assist you in protecting your rights and securing the compensation you need.
