You have no control over the other drivers on the road. Even if you drive defensively and follow the rules of the road, you may still be seriously injured by another driver’s negligence. In many cases, the victim of a side impact collision may have no warning and no way to avoid it.
Side impact collisions occur whenever another vehicle sideswipes or broadsides your vehicle. It can occur on the highway (typically a sideswipe) or at an intersection (these are sometimes referred to as T-Bone collisions). Even at low speeds, a side impact collision can lead to severe injuries, and in some cases, death.
If you have been seriously injured in a side impact collision, you medical bills, rehabilitation and car repairs are only part of what you have to deal with. We can help.
In New Orleans or anywhere in Louisiana, please call Stag Liuzza for a free case evaluation. If we take your case, we will represent you on a contingent fee basis so we don’t get paid unless and until we recover money for you.
Common Causes of Side Impact Accidents
Unfortunately, side impact collisions are among the most common motor vehicle accidents. They are most often caused by another driver who is distracted or otherwise not paying enough attention. Here are some typical scenarios:
- Running a red light and hitting a vehicle who has the right-of-way.
- Pulling in front of oncoming traffic when it is not safe to do so.
- Turning left without properly negotiating the speed of oncoming traffic.
- Looking down while driving, often while texting or using a cell phone.
- Traveling at high speeds that make it impossible to stop in time.
The Cost of Side Impact Collisions
Side impact accidents happen at all speeds. Even seemingly minor accidents may cause severe damage. Vehicles offer less protection to the driver and passengers when hit on the side as compared with rear-end and head-on collisions. Injuries are often more serious, especially when children are involved.
Some common injuries reported after side impact collisions include:
- Injuries of the chest and abdomen, especially in those who are close to the point of impact.
- Neck, shoulder, and back injuries in passengers further away from the point of impact.
- Broken bones, including ribs, legs, and arms.
- Whiplash, which may not appear until days or weeks following the accident.
- Internal damage due to the blunt force of the collision.
- Death, which can occur in both low and high-speed collisions.
If you are the victim of a side impact collision, you may find yourself with costly medical bills and car repairs. You have the right to seek monetary compensation from the negligent party whose actions caused your injuries.
The Negotiation Process
The majority of side impact claims are resolved without going to trial. Your attorney will negotiate with the defendant and their insurance company to try to come to an agreement. Most of the time, the responsible party will accept responsibility and a fair settlement can be negotiated.
In some instances, however, the negligent party may deny all wrongdoing. Their insurance company may refuse to pay your claim or offer you less than the full value of your damages. If this happens in your case, the attorneys at Stag Liuzza will advise you on the best course of action may recommend trying your case before a jury. Some cases that go to trial may be settled before the verdict is announced. Regardless, we will do what we can to ensure that you are fully compensated.
Please call us today for a free initial consultation. We represent motor vehicle accident victims in New Orleans and throughout Louisiana.
