Protect your rights after a St. Louis sideswipe accident. Here are the crucial steps to take, from documenting the scene to consulting a lawyer.
A sideswipe accident occurs when two vehicles traveling parallel to each other make contact. These accidents are common on St. Louis highways, during lane changes, or when merging. While often less severe than head-on collisions, sideswipe accidents can still cause significant damage and injury.
Immediate Steps to Take After a St. Louis Sideswipe Accident
- Ensure Safety: If possible, safely move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further accidents.
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.
- Call the Police: Report the accident to the St. Louis police, even if it seems minor.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the damage, the accident scene, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange Information: Get contact and insurance details from the other driver(s) involved.
- Gather Witness Information: If there are witnesses, collect their contact information.
Dealing with Insurance and Legal Matters
After ensuring everyone’s safety and documenting the accident, it’s crucial to handle the insurance and potential legal aspects carefully:
- Consult a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer: Before speaking with any insurance adjusters, it’s highly recommended to consult a St. Louis car accident lawyer. They can protect your rights and ensure you don’t say anything that could harm your claim.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Chest pain after a car accident, for example, could be a sign of a serious injury. Prompt medical attention also creates a record of your injuries.
- Be Cautious with Insurance Companies: While you should report the accident to your insurer, be careful about giving detailed statements or accepting early settlement offers without legal advice. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim.
- Document Everything: Keep records of all medical treatments, missed work days, and any correspondence related to the accident. This information will be valuable for your lawyer and in building your case.
Common Causes of Sideswipe Accidents in St. Louis
Understanding the causes can help prevent future accidents:
- Distracted driving
- Failure to check blind spots
- Improper lane changes
- Merging without caution
- Driving under the influence
Determining Fault in a St. Louis Sideswipe Accident
Establishing fault in a sideswipe accident can be challenging. It often comes down to which driver had the right of way or which driver was negligent. Proper documentation and witness statements become crucial in this situation. In some cases, both drivers may share fault, which can affect insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Potential Injuries from Sideswipe Accidents
While often less severe than other types of collisions, sideswipe accidents can still result in serious injuries, including:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Shoulder and arm injuries
- Head injuries
- Cuts from broken glass
- Shoulder pain after the accident
Being involved in a sideswipe accident in St. Louis can be a stressful experience. By following these steps and understanding your rights, you can better protect yourself and navigate the aftermath of the accident. Remember, if you’re unsure about any aspect of your case or facing difficulties with insurance claims, don’t hesitate to seek professional legal advice.
Free Consultation with a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
Don’t talk to an insurance claims adjuster before speaking with The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. We can help you avoid making statements that may affect the outcome of your case. The consultation is free; you don’t pay unless we get you money!