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Tampa Criminal Defense Lawyers > Sideswipe Accident Lawyer

Sideswipe Accident Lawyer

A sideswipe collision occurs when two vehicles are traveling in the same direction and one vehicle hits the other in the side. In the majority of cases, this happens because one driver was changing lanes, or merging into traffic from an on or off ramp. The driver that left their lane is typically at fault for these types of accidents, but determining which driver left their lane is not always so easy. A sideswipe accident lawyer can help you determine if another driver was at fault and if so, ensure you recover the fair settlement you deserve.

Our Sideswipe Accident Attorney Can Determine Fault

All motorists have a duty of care to remain in the lane they are traveling in and if they must change lanes, to do so only once they have determined it is safe. It is easy to determine that a motorist that made an improper lane change is at fault for the accident. However, determining which driver left their lane is not always so straightforward.

In some cases, the location of the property damage to vehicles can provide a clue as to which driver was at fault. In other instances, the position of the vehicles can also indicate which motorist was at fault. The majority of the time, however, fault is determined based on the accounts of all motorists involved and eyewitness statements. Even then, witness statements often differ, which can also make determining fault in a sideswipe accident difficult.

Our Sideswipe Accident Attorney Explains Common Causes of Crashes

It is true that most often, the driver that left their lane of travel is at fault for a sideswipe accident. The common causes of these crashes include:

  • Failing to ensure there is an appropriate amount of room to change lanes
  • Failing to ensure blind spots were clear before changing lanes
  • Becoming distracted and drifting into another lane
  • Failing to signal
  • Speeding
  • Recklessly cutting off another driver
  • Impaired driving, causing the motorist to swerve from their lane

Of course, it is not always the driver that changed lanes that is at fault for an accident. The driver that was hit may also be found partly at fault. This commonly happens when the other motorist takes the following actions:

  • Speeds up as the other driver is changing lanes to go in front of them
  • Reduces their speed as the other motorist changes lanes to go behind them
  • Drives while distracted
  • Refuses to let another driver enter their lane of travel

Even though the law seems clear, it is not always easy to determine which motorist was at fault for a sideswipe accident, which is just one way in which working with an attorney can help.

Our Sideswipe Accident Attorney Can Help with Your Case

If you have been injured in a crash, our experienced sideswipe accident attorney at The Matassini Law Firm, P.A. is here to advise on your case. Call us today at 813-217-5715 or contact us online to schedule a free case review with one of our attorneys.

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The greatest distinguishing feature among attorneys is their level of experience. Our firm has more than 60 years of legal experience, much of it spent in the courtroom at trial. As a result, our Tampa criminal defense lawyers rarely encounter an unfamiliar situation and can thoroughly answer your urgent questions. Our criminal defense practice features a board certified criminal trial lawyer and two former prosecutors with impressive knowledge of trial tactics and procedures.

The resources to provide quality representation for the length of your case

Whether your case involves a crime or injury, your attorney must be prepared to take the case all the way through trial to verdict. Many defense attorneys advance the cost of litigation, so they can only last so long before financial pressures start to mount. As a client, you have to wonder whether an attorney's advice to settle your case reflects the quality of the offer or their need to get paid. Fortunately, The Matassini Law Firm has the resources to pursue civil verdicts and settlements that reflect the actual value of your case.

Call our Tampa Bay criminal attorneys for a free consultation

A crisis in your life calls for capable and compassionate assistance. The Matassini Law Firm, P.A. addresses your needs all the way through the legal process. For your free initial confidential conference with one of our Tampa criminal defense attorneys, call us today at 813-217-5715 or contact us online.

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