All vehicles must merge into traffic or move into another lane at one time or another to reach their destination. When a vehicle is merging, the driver must use extreme caution, adhere to traffic laws, and watch for the other vehicles. If a merging vehicle cuts in where there is not enough room, it can force others off the road.
If you were forced off the road by a merging vehicle, you might be able to pursue a personal injury claim against the other driver to recover your damages. Both drivers have certain responsibilities when traveling on the road, and they must adhere to traffic regulations
The Process of Merging
Traffic laws give both drivers responsibility for safety when there are merging vehicles. This means when a vehicle is merging, the driver must be attentive, judge for enough clearance to enter the lane of traffic, then make the move. Drivers who are in the through lane must be attentive and create enough space for the merging vehicle whenever possible.
There can be times when traffic is heavy, and it can impact the merging process. In that case, when through traffic is not allowing other vehicles room, the merging vehicle must yield to them. Through traffic cannot be forced to stop because it can cause a rear-end collision. Also, when traffic is heavy, through traffic might not be able to merge into another lane to let a vehicle cut into their current lane. If a vehicle continues to merge and forces you off the road, they are failing to yield right-of-way.
What to Do
If you were forced off the road by a merging vehicle, there may or may not have been contact. Either way, the other vehicle is at fault. You can pursue a personal injury claim for damages. You will need to prove that the other driver acted negligently. Four elements of negligence must be met.
In this case scenario, the first element is obvious. Drivers must proceed in a safe manner and adhere to traffic regulations to prevent injury to others. This means they have a duty to act in a specific manner. Second, you must show that duty is breached. In this case, it was breached when the driver continued to merge when it was not safe and failed to yield. Third, that breach of duty must be the cause of the accident. The breach here resulted in you being forced off the roadway. And fourth, that accident resulted in the damages that you suffered in the crash.
Consult With a Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been forced off the road by a merging vehicle, you should consult with a personal injury attorney. There is nothing to lose because personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form today, so your case can be reviewed by an accident injury lawyer. The attorney will review the circumstances and your damages, determining the best way to proceed.
