Lane change accidents are one of the most common causes of car accidents in Texas. Unsafe lane changes caused over 60,000 accidents in one recent year.
When drivers fail to check their surroundings or signal properly, serious accidents are bound to occur. In high-traffic areas like Austin, the risk increases even more.
If you were injured in a lane change accident, you may be entitled to file a car accident claim against the at-fault driver.
What is a Lane Change Accident?
Drivers have a duty to ensure that a lane is clear before moving into it. A lane change accident occurs when one driver moves into another lane and collides with a nearby vehicle.
Common causes of lane change accidents include:
- Failing to check blind spots
- Not using turn signals
- Distracted driving
- Aggressive driving
- Misjudging the speed of other vehicles
- Sudden lane changes in heavy traffic
Many lane change accidents occur when drivers attempt to merge quickly or move around slower vehicles without properly checking their surroundings.
Lane Change Accidents Can Cause Serious Injuries
Lane change accidents can take many forms. Some involve sideswipe collisions, while others cause vehicles to lose control and collide with barriers or other cars. Therefore, the range of injuries can be wide and catastrophic.
Lane change accidents can cause
- Neck injuries like whiplash
- Back injuries
- Concussions/head injuries
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue injuries
- Spinal injuries
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and time away from work while the victim recovers (not to mention pain and suffering).
Filing a Car Accident Claim After a Lane Change Accident
If another driver caused your accident/injuries by making an unsafe lane change, you may have the right to pursue compensation under Texas personal injury law.
Through a car accident claim, you may be able to recover money for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distressÂ
- Reduced quality of life
An experienced Austin car accident attorney can investigate your accident, determine who is responsible, and pursue full compensation for these and other damages. Contact Dow Law Firm today to discuss your case with an experienced car accident attorney.