It only takes a split second. You’re driving straight, focused on your lane, when suddenly a vehicle drifts into your space, scraping the side of your car in a startling impact.
A side-swipe car accident may appear less destructive than a head-on crash, but its consequences can be just as devastating. From whiplash injury to severe trauma, these collisions are more dangerous than many realize.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a side-swipe car accident, here’s essential information to safeguard your rights as you move forward.
What Is a Side-Swipe Car Accident?
A side-swipe car accident happens when one vehicle moves too close to another while changing lanes or merging, causing the sides of the vehicles to make contact. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this can involve anything from a light scrape to a near miss that clips the rear corner of the other car.
These collisions frequently happen:
- On multi-lane roads or highways
- When drivers fail to check blind spots
- During congested traffic or road construction zones
- Near intersections where merging is common
While they may appear minor outside, sideswipe accidents can cause major disruption, especially when vehicles lose control after the impact.
The Deadly Truth About Sideswipe Collisions
In 2022 alone, 1,067 fatal crashes were caused by a sideswipe, making them a significant contributor to traffic deaths nationwide. Even more concerning is the vulnerability of certain vehicle types. Research shows that drivers of smaller cars face much higher risks in side impact crashes, especially when an SUV is involved.
A person in a passenger car is about ten times more likely to be killed than the SUV driver, no matter which vehicle caused the crash. When a car is struck on the side by an SUV, the danger becomes even more severe, raising the odds of death for the car’s driver by nearly 100 times.
To put it in perspective, imagine the difference between being hit by a tennis ball versus a bowling ball. The weight and height of SUVs offer significant protection to their drivers. Still, they also make them far more dangerous to those in smaller vehicles, especially in side-swipe car accidents, where the side of the car offers less protection than the front or rear.
These statistics highlight the severity of side impacts and their role in catastrophic injuries, such as:
- TBI (traumatic brain injury)
- Spinal cord injury
- Whiplash injury
- Chest and rib fractures
- Shoulder dislocations
- Reduced range of motion
Such injuries often disrupt your daily activities, leave you with mounting medical expenses, and may require ongoing medical care or rehabilitation.
Common Causes of Side-Swipe Accidents
Many sideswipe accidents in California stem from preventable driver behavior, including:
- Distracted driving (texting, calls, navigation)
- Driving under the influence
- Failing to check mirrors or blind spots
- Aggressive lane changes
- Fatigued driving
- Speeding in heavy traffic
The negligent driver can be held legally responsible for the damages in many cases.
What To Do After a Side-Swipe Car Accident
If you’ve been in a side-swipe car accident, your actions in the immediate aftermath are crucial to building a strong case:
- Check for Signs of Injury – Seek help immediately if anyone appears hurt.
- Move to Safety – If possible, move vehicles to a safe area without leaving the scene.
- Call 911 – Always report the accident to law enforcement.
- Document the Scene
- Take photos of both vehicles
- Note skid marks, traffic signs, and weather conditions
- Record visible injuries and property damage
- Exchange Information – Get the other driver’s name, license, plate number, and insurance.
- Speak to Witnesses – Get their contact details if anyone saw the accident.
- Seek Medical Attention
- Even if you feel “fine,” some injuries like TBI or whiplash injury show delayed symptoms.
- Consult a healthcare professional and maintain complete medical records.
Legal Rights and Compensation for Victims
If the at-fault driver caused your side-swipe car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills and future treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional Distress
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
However, insurance companies often downplay the seriousness of these collisions, especially when external damage is minimal. They may delay or deny your insurance claim, so seeking legal representation matters.
Our award-winning car accident lawyer in San Pedro can help by:
- Gathering your medical records
- Consulting expert opinion
- Negotiating fair settlements
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary
Having someone who understands the law and genuinely cares about your recovery can make a big difference in how supported and informed you feel throughout the process.
Safety Tips to Avoid a Sideswipe Collision
While not all sideswipe accidents are avoidable, you can reduce your risk by:
- Always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes
- Avoid driving in other drivers’ blind spots
- Use turn signals well in advance
- Give wide clearance during lane changes
- Stay alert and avoid distractions
- Keep a safe distance from erratic drivers
Support for Side-Swipe Victims in San Pedro
In San Pedro and throughout California, accident victims often face overwhelming challenges — from medical expenses to car repairs and missed work. If you’ve suffered severe injuries after a side-swipe car accident, it’s essential to speak with a car accident lawyer in San Pedro who understands the complexities of personal injury claims.
The attorneys at Farahi Law Firm are experienced in handling motor vehicle accident cases involving catastrophic injuries. Whether you suffered a neck injury or soft tissue damage, our team is here to help.
Your Case Matters — Let’s Win It Together
If you or a loved one has been injured in a side-swipe car accident, don’t wait to get the support you need. At Farahi Law Firm, our dedicated team offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Contact us now. Let us help you secure the medical treatment you need and the money you deserve.
