Merging accidents are common. The U.S Department of Transportation reports that there are about 300,000 merging crashes every year. Drivers should use caution, understanding how to properly merge and who has the right of way.
Aggressive driving and road rage also come into play when merging accidents happen. If you are going anywhere and the road has multiple lanes in the same direction, you will eventually have to merge.
Cars entering one road from another will have to merge as well. Merging is necessary, and you need to know how to handle the process properly. Many of these merging crashes lead to serious injuries and about 50,000 on average, result in death.
Common Kinds of Merging Accidents
There are some kinds of merging accidents that are much more common than others. Sideswipe spinouts happen when the driver of the merging vehicle doesn’t see you until he or she starts merging, then they overcorrect while attempting to avoid a crash, which causes more harm than good. They often still sideswipe you and then involve vehicles in other lanes.
Braking truck collisions happen when a motorist tries to merge in front of a big truck without the proper care and distance, causing the trucker to panic and slam his brakes. Trucks are large and heavy, so this can cause skidding, loss of control, jackknifing, or a rollover.
Blindspot collisions are common because drivers must make sure there is enough space to move into when merging. Failing to check the blind spot could lead to a crash.
Rear-end collisions happen when drivers move their vehicle in between other cars and there is not adequate space available.
What To Do After A Merging Accident
Always stay on the scene of the accident and wait for the police to arrive. You will need an accident report completed. The police will usually determine fault and conduct a preliminary investigation. Get a copy of this report for your records and to use when pursuing a personal injury claim.
Get copies of the statements from any witnesses and make sure you give a statement to the police officer completing the report. Take photos of the crash scene and of the damages.
Be sure to get medical care right away. Keep copies of medical bills and medical records. Maintain records of missed work and lost wages. Documentation and evidence are imperative to a successful personal injury claim after a merging accident.
Consult With A Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been involved in any kind of merging accident, you should consult with a personal injury attorney who practices in your state. You need a lawyer familiar with your state laws and with accident injury claims.
Personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you have nothing to lose.
Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to have the details of your case shared with a lawyer in your area. You have nothing to lose! Time is of the essence though, as a strict statute of limitations applies.
