Car Accidents Due to Unsafe Lane Changes

There are many reasons for car accidents, but one of the most common causes is due to unsafe lane changes by a vehicle from one lane crossing over into another lane traveling in the same direction. Inattention and negligence are typically the root cause of such accidents, and statistics show that one-tenth of all car accidents are a result of unsafe lane changes. The misjudgment or inattention of one driver can cause catastrophic injuries including death to other drivers.

Improper and Unsafe Lane Changes

An improper lane change (also known as “sideswiping”) on a roadway in South Carolina occurs when one driver changes lanes or begins to move into another lane, without a safe and clear path to do so.  In many cases, these drivers are speeding and distracted, and completely unaware of their surroundings including another car in close proximity to them. Failing to check blind spots can result in devastating and horrific accidents causing severe injuries or even death. Some of the most typically causes of improper and unsafe lane changes include:

• Driving while intoxicated (under the influence of drugs or alcohol)
• Distracted driving
• Aggressive driving
• Failure to check blind spots
• Failure to signal
• Driver fatigue
• Misjudgment of other vehicles
• Poor weather conditions
• Poor road conditions

Common Injuries Resulting From Unsafe Lane Changes

As you can imagine, sideswiping accidents often cause serious injuries. Some of the more common injuries seen as a result of unsafe lane changes can include:

• Traumatic head injuries (concussions, etc.)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Fractured bones
• Back and Neck injuries
• Disfigurement
• Paralysis
• Death

How to Avoid Unsafe Lane Changes

You may have already been in an accident involving an unsafe lane change. However, some of the following are ways to preemptively attempt to avoid unsafe lane changes and prevent car accidents. The best practices of driving include the following:

• Change only one lane at a time
• Check blind spots
• Use your turn signal
• Never speed up or slow down
• Avoid the furthest left land
• Keep both hands on the wheel
• Yield to merging traffic
• Never assume other drivers can see you
• Never drive on the right side of a large truck
• Be aware of your surroundings

Statute of Limitations

The state of South Carolina has established a deadline that any personal injury lawsuit must be filed within three years of the date of the car accident. While you may believe this is a long time, negotiations with insurance companies as well as the time it takes you to heal from your accident can quickly impact this time frame.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or a loved one was the victim of a car accident due to an unsafe lane change, you may have the right to receive compensation for your unexpected medical bills, lost wages or pain and suffering. Contact an experienced Columbia personal injury attorney at The Stanley Law Group at 803-799-4700 to schedule a free consultation regarding your car accident.

Resource:

scstatehouse.gov/code/t56c001.php

https://www.thestanleylawgroup.com/atv-accidents-and-personal-injury-cases/