How Dangerous are Sideswipe Collisions in Orlando?

Car accidents take on many forms, with sideswipe collisions among the most common in Orlando.

As the name suggests, this type of accident consists of the impact between the side of one vehicle and the side of another. For example, if you’re driving on the highway, another driver could cause a sideswipe accident by changing lanes without checking their blind spot. 

As a general rule of thumb, the faster your vehicle is traveling the greater chance there is of a sideswipe collision causing serious damage and severe injuries. This is due in large part to the fact that you’re more likely to lose control of your vehicle.

Imagine driving 70 miles per hour on Interstate 4 through Orlando. If a negligent driver causes a sideswipe collision, your vehicle could spin, flip over, and/or veer out of its lane of travel. And when that happens, there’s a much greater chance of secondary collisions. 

The best way to protect against sideswipe collisions in Orlando is to understand why they occur. Most of these accidents are related to vehicle blind spots, as well as the following causes:

• Driver inattentiveness: This is often related to distracted driving, such as texting or talking on the phone. Inattentiveness increases the risk of driver error, such as failure to check their blind spot before changing lanes. 
• Aggressive driving: Aggressive drivers are more likely to cause sideswipe collisions. Examples of aggressive driving include excessive speeding, passing in the right lane, and following too closely. 
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs: Drugs, alcohol, and prescription medication all have the potential to cause a motor vehicle accident. When under the influence, drivers are less likely to make a costly error.  
• Failure to use turn signals: Turn signals are meant to give other drivers a clear idea of your intentions. So, when a driver changes lanes without using a turn signal, it can surprise everyone else on the road. 
• Improper merging: One of the most common causes of sideswipe collisions in Orlando is improper merging. Merging into fast-moving traffic is challenging, and if a mistake is made it can result in two vehicles colliding side to side. 

How to Prevent a Sideswipe Accident

The one thing you need to know about prevention is this: you only have control over your actions. You can’t do anything about how other drivers behave.

However, there are basic steps you can take to reduce the risk of a sideswipe accident, such as:

• Always pay attention: Other drivers may be distracted, but you don’t have to follow suit. Paying close attention to your surroundings can help you avoid situations that increase the risk of a sideswipe accident.
• Don’t drive in blind spots: If you find yourself driving next to another vehicle for an extended period, do your best to change positions. The longer you’re in a person’s blind spot the greater chance there is that they’ll lose track of your vehicle.

Common Sideswipe Accident Injuries

Just the same as any type of motor vehicle accident, your health and well-being are at risk. Here are some of the most common sideswipe accident injuries:

• Broken bones: This is a common injury in any car accident, with every bone in your body at risk. While broken bones will ultimately heal, they can impact you for the rest of your life. 
• Neck and back injuries: These injuries take on many forms, such as strains, sprains, chronic pain, and paralysis. 
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Common examples include skull fractures and bleeding on the brain. Any type of brain injury can cause cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments. 
• Burns and abrasions: Not only are these injuries painful, but they can also cause permanent disfigurement, scarring, and infection. 
• Amputated limbs: In the event of a serious injury, such as a crushed limb, amputation may be the only form of treatment. 

What To Do After an Orlando Sideswipe Accident

The steps you take after a car accident will vary based on the type and severity of your injuries. Here are some general steps to take:

• Examine yourself and passengers for injuries
• Call 911 to request an ambulance and police presence
• Administer first-aid until paramedics arrive
• Receive treatment at a local hospital
• Collect evidence, such as photos of the scene and your injuries
• Contact a personal injury attorney
• File an insurance claim

The Law Offices of Pardy & Rodriguez Can Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Orlando sideswipe collision, don’t hesitate to take legal action against the negligent party. Doing so can help you receive compensation for damages such as current and future medical bills, lost wages, physical therapy, and medical transportation.

At The Law Offices of Pardy & Rodriguez, we have the experience and knowledge you need to win your case. Contact us online or via phone at 407-481-0066 to set up a consultation, ask questions, and learn more about how we can help.