DC Side Impact Collision Lawyer

In car accidents, sometimes one vehicle collides with the side of another vehicle. Side impact collisions (also known as broadside, T-Bone, or right-angle collisions) in are common, both in DC and other jurisdictions, and can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. Sideswipe accidents were responsible for 850 fatalities nationwide in 2008. These injuries can require extensive medical treatment and significant recovery time. Furthermore, the damage to a vehicle following a side impact crash is also usually substantial. When a collision occurs because one driver was negligent or reckless, that driver may be held liable for any injuries, property damage, and other losses that the accident victims incurred. If you or a loved one has been injured in such a collision, a DC side impact collision lawyer who is familiar with side impact crashes can help you pursue the compensation you deserve for all of your accident-related losses.

Types of Side Impact Collisions

There are two main categories of side impact collisions: sideswipes and broadside, or side impact, collisions. Sideswipe crashes typically happen when two cars are traveling in the same direction and the driver’s side of one vehicle collides with the passenger’s side of the other vehicle. These incidents often occur because of the following reasons:

  • Improper lane changes or problems with blind spots;
  • Improper merging behaviors;
  • Drifting into another lane due to distracted, fatigued, or impaired driving; and/or
  • Failing to properly yield, especially on turns.

Side Impact Collision Lawyer in DCBroadside collisions, also commonly referred to as “T-bone” or right angle collisions, occur when the front of one vehicle hits the side of another vehicle. This type of accident most often happens when two vehicles, perpendicular to one another, enter an intersection at the same time. Often, one of the drivers causes a broadside collision because they ran a traffic light, stop sign, or failed to yield or otherwise follow the right-of-way rules. If you are involved in one of these types of accidents, a DC side impact collision lawyer can help you to identify who is at fault and to hold them accountable.

Effects of Side Impact Crashes

Modern day cars are relatively well-equipped with bumpers and crumple zones to protect from front and rear impact collisions. However, in side impact accidents, occupants have very little to protect them. There is no hood or trunk, but only a door, fender, or quarter panel in between themselves and the other vehicle. For this reason, motorists are at a high risk of serious injury in side collisions.

Side impact collisions often cause one or both vehicles to spin, roll over, or collide with other vehicles, curbs, guardrails, other fixed objects, or pedestrians. Thus, the injuries and damages resulting from a side impact collision have the potential to be catastrophic.

Side Impact Collision Damages

The injuries and damages sustained due to collision often result in astronomical medical bills and significant lost wages. If someone else is at fault for the accident, you may be entitled to collect on those damages. Damages incurred from a side impact collision could include:

  • Catastrophic injuries
  • Permanent disability
  • Medical bills
  • Damage to your vehicle
  • Loss of income
  • Loss of employment opportunity
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of time from your customary leisure activities
  • Pain and suffering or emotional trauma

If you have been injured in a side-impact crash, contact a DC lawyer to help you collect the maximum amount of compensation that you deserve. An experienced personal injury attorney will use all of their experience and knowledge to see that the at-fault parties are held accountable for their negligence and that you are compensated for your losses.

Hire a DC Side Impact Collision Lawyer Today

Side impact collisions can cause serious and catastrophic injuries. If you or a loved one has suffered injury in a DC side impact collision, an experienced auto accident attorney at our firm can help you receive proper compensation from the responsible driver. Your attorney will be able to walk you through the process of filing a personal injury claim and diligently review the facts of your case to determine the most appropriate course of action. Our lawyers have handled numerous motor vehicle accident cases, and are well-versed in the particularities of filing a claim, speaking with insurance companies, and taking the case to trial if such circumstances deem it necessary. Call our office to schedule a free consultation today.