If there is more than one lane headed in the same direction, vehicles are going to have to change lanes to get where they need to go. To safely change lanes, drivers must judge a safe distance between vehicles, drive at a safe speed, and signal before switching lanes.
If a driver makes an unsafe lane change, a serious accident can occur. Two or more vehicles can end up crashing all because of one bad move or error in judgment. You might be able to pursue a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your damages if you can prove that another driver made an unsafe lane change.
What To Do After a Crash
First, check to see if anyone is injured and needs an ambulance. If an ambulance is needed, call one right away. Call the police because an accident report will have to be completed. During the investigation and filing of the report, the officer might determine who is at fault and what action led to the crash.
If possible, use your smartphone to photograph the accident scene and any damages to the vehicles. Exchange contact information and insurance information with the other driver. Get the names and contact details for any eyewitnesses.
Determining Who Is At Fault
Negligence plays a major role in auto accident claims. If you can prove that another driver was negligent, you can have a successful personal injury claim. There are four elements of negligence – duty, breach, causation, and damages. Drivers have a responsibility or a duty to adhere to traffic regulations and drive in a safe manner to avoid crashes and to protect others from harm.
If a driver violates a traffic law and makes an unsafe lane change, then he or she has breached that duty. If that breach causes an accident, then causation has been shown. Then, if that accident leads to damages that you can show, then you have proven that the other driver acted negligently.
Damages That Might Result
Unsafe lane changes can lead to a variety of crashes. It can result in sideswipes, rear-end collisions, or result in one vehicle clipping another. All these crashes will result in some property damage and can lead to various other damages, such as medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, mental trauma, loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment of life, and other damages.
Maintain documentation, such as photos of injuries and damages, medical bills and medical records, proof of lost wages, the accident report, and statements from any eyewitnesses. An auto accident can result in economic and non-economic damages on various levels. Your personal injury attorney will help determine which damages you suffered and how much you should be compensated.
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been involved in an accident because another driver made an unsafe lane change, you should consult with a personal injury attorney. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to get put into contact with an accident injury lawyer who can help you get your claim on track!
