Because these types of car accidents involve being hit on the side, many drivers do not see them coming. Side-impact collisions can cause serious injuries and disrupt the lives of victims and their families. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you may have a right to financial compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering. An experienced Albuquerque car crash lawyer from Caruso Law Offices can discuss your legal rights and options during a free consultation.
What Is a Side-Impact Collision?
A side-impact collision occurs when one vehicle crashes into the side of another vehicle. In some cases, one vehicle drifts into the lane of the other vehicle, in which the vehicles strike the sides of each other. In other cases, a vehicle’s front may hit the side of the other vehicle, such as in a T-bone or right-angle crash.
Common Causes of Side-Impact Collisions in Albuquerque
Side-impact collisions can occur for various reasons, including the following:
- Drunk or drugged driving
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Drowsy driving
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Distracted driving
- Inattention
An experienced Albuquerque car accident attorney can investigate your crash and determine how it happened and who is responsible.
What Makes Side-Impact Collisions More Dangerous Than Other Types of Collisions?
Side-impact collisions can be very dangerous, resulting in fatalities and catastrophic injuries. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 22% of traffic deaths in 2021 were side-impact collisions.
There are several reasons why side-impact collisions may be more dangerous than other types of car crashes. These accidents often occur at higher speeds, such as when a vehicle is merging or two vehicles are driving next to each other on a highway. The victim may not see the vehicle about to crash into them, so they may not have an opportunity to brake or steer away from the other driver.
Additionally, the point of impact may be closer to the driver when the crash occurs, which can increase the likelihood of serious injuries, including head injuries and broken bones. And, because these accidents occur at the sides of vehicles where many vehicles do not have any or as effective safety equipment, victims may suffer more serious injuries.
Who Is at Fault for a Side-Impact Collision in Albuquerque, New Mexico?
Side-impact collisions typically involve a driver who has broken a traffic law or acted negligently in some way. For example, a driver may have been texting while driving and drifted into another driver’s lane. In other cases, a driver may have turned left into the path of an oncoming vehicle. An experienced car accident lawyer can use their robust understanding of local traffic laws and evidence they can gather to help establish fault in the accident.
What to Do After a Side-Impact Collision in Albuquerque
If you were involved in a side-impact collision, here are some steps that experienced personal injury lawyers in Albuquerque suggest you take to protect your health and legal claim:
- Move your vehicle out of traffic.
- Check for injuries.
- Call 911 to report the accident.
- Exchange information with the other driver.
- Take pictures of the accident, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
Discuss Your Case with an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer in Albuquerque Today
If you were injured in a side-impact collision in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Caruso Law Offices are here to help. We can guide you through the claims process while you focus on your recovery. Contact us for a free case review to discuss your legal rights and options.