Every year, thousands of lives are upended by sideswipe accidents, leaving victims with injuries, medical bills, and unanswered questions about what comes next.
These seemingly simple collisions can have devastating consequences, from severe injuries to tragic fatalities, disrupting the lives of those involved.
If you were injured in a sideswipe accident, don’t hesitate to contact William Mattar P.C. Our car accident attorneys have handled many cases and have experience getting injury victims the compensation they need to get their lives back on track.
Call our team at (716) 444-4444 today to learn more about your legal options.
Table of contents
- Why Work With William Mattar in Your Sideswipe Accident Case?
- What Causes Sideswipe Accidents?
- Sideswipe Accident Injuries
- What Happens if a Motorcycle Gets in a Sideswipe Accident?
- Who Is at Fault in a Sideswipe Accident?
- Statistics and Trends in Sideswipe Accidents in New York
- Emotional and Psychological Effects of Sideswipe Accidents
- FAQ
- Contact an Experienced Accident Attorney Today
Why Work With William Mattar in Your Sideswipe Accident Case?
At William Mattar Law Offices, standing up for injured car accident victims isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are. If a sideswipe collision leaves you hurt and overwhelmed, let our dedication and experience work in your favor.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Proven results
We’ve helped thousands of clients secure maximum compensation. From medical expenses to lost wages, our track record reflects our commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes. Visit our testimonials page to see what our clients have to say.
Free initial consultation
We make it easy to take the first step toward recovery. We make your initial consultation completely free and without obligation. Whether your case is straightforward or complex, we provide guidance and support.
No Fee Until We WinSM
Legal fees shouldn’t stand between you and justice. With our No Fee Until We WinSM promise, you don’t pay attorney’s fees unless we win or settle your case. It’s that simple.
Decades of experience
Since 1990, we’ve advocated for car accident victims across New York State. Our team has the knowledge, resources, and determination to fight for the compensation you need to move forward.
A dedicated team
We work as a team to build the strongest claim possible. While we focus on your case, you can focus on healing and returning to your life.
When you choose William Mattar, P.C. you’re not just hiring a lawyer—you’re gaining a legal team ready to stand by your side every step.
What Causes Sideswipe Accidents?
A sideswipe accident occurs when cars traveling next to each other collide. The vehicles may be on the road in two neighboring travel lanes, or one vehicle may attempt to merge or change lanes.
Some common causes of sideswipe accidents include:
- Distracted driving (such as texting and driving);
- Unsafe lane change or merge;
- Driving under the influence;
- Drifting out of a lane of travel;
- Failing to yield to other vehicles; and
- Veering out of a lane of travel to avoid a road hazard.
Many of these causes come down to at least one inattentive or careless driver. If an irresponsible driver caused a sideswipe accident, resulting in your injuries, you may recover financial compensation.
The accident attorneys at William Mattar can work to hold the at-fault driver accountable for their actions.
Sideswipe Accident Injuries
Sideswipe accidents can result in devastating injuries. The severity of injuries will depend on the circumstances of the collision.
Drivers and passengers can suffer many damages and ongoing effects due to an accident injury, including expenses for medical care, physical therapy, lost income, and emotional and physical suffering.
Examples of sideswipe accident injuries include but are not limited to:
- Traumatic brain injuries,
- Back injuries;
- Spinal cord damage;
- Seatbelt injuries;
- Lacerations;
- Bone fractures; and
- Whiplash.
If you sustained injuries in a sideswipe collision, contact us today. We’re standing by 24/7 to help.
What Happens if a Motorcycle Gets in a Sideswipe Accident?
Motorcycle riders are often more vulnerable in motor vehicle accidents, and sideswipe collisions are no exception. Unlike passenger vehicle occupants, there is no frame to protect motorcyclists.
Additionally, other vehicles do not always look for bikers. After a sideswipe accident, a car can throw a motorcyclist off their bike and oncoming traffic can strike them.
Contact us today if a sideswipe accident injures you on your motorcycle. We can help.
Who Is at Fault in a Sideswipe Accident?
In a sideswipe accident, the motorist who made an unsafe maneuver is usually at fault.
Likewise, if the driver was texting, intoxicated, or driving recklessly, the driver will likely bear responsibility for the collision and any resulting damages.
An accident attorney can look closely at your case and help establish who is responsible for the collision. An accident attorney also helps obtain compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Statistics and Trends in Sideswipe Accidents in New York
Sideswipe accidents are a significant concern in New York, contributing to numerous injuries and fatalities annually.
Statewide data:
Approximately 120 deaths and 3,500 injuries occur each year in New York due to non-intersection head-on and opposite-direction sideswipe crashes.
Emotional and Psychological Effects of Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipe accidents can leave more than physical scars—they often create lasting emotional and psychological challenges. Victims may experience anxiety, fear of driving, or recurring memories of the crash that disrupt daily life.
These emotional struggles can be just as overwhelming as physical injuries, affecting relationships, work performance, and overall well-being.
In some cases, individuals develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), experiencing heightened stress responses, insomnia, or difficulty concentrating.
Emotional recovery may require therapy, counseling, or other forms of support, which can add to the financial strain of medical bills and lost income.
These effects deserve recognition and compensation as part of your claim. Addressing the emotional toll of an accident helps ensure you’re supported through every aspect of your recovery, not just the physical ones.
FAQ
What should I do immediately after a sideswipe accident?
After a sideswipe collision, prioritize safety and health. If possible, move to a safe area, call 911 to report the accident, and seek medical attention even if injuries do not immediately manifest.
Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver and document the scene with photos. Avoid admitting fault or discussing the accident in detail with anyone other than the police and your attorney.
How do I prove fault in a sideswipe accident?
Proving fault involves gathering evidence to demonstrate the other driver’s negligence. Key evidence can include police reports documenting the incident, witness statements, traffic or dashcam footage, and photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and damage.
An experienced attorney can analyze this evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.
Can multiple parties be held responsible for a sideswipe accident?
Yes, multiple parties may share fault in some sideswipe collisions. For instance, a driver making an unsafe lane change and speeding in the adjacent lane might contribute to the crash.
In such cases, the specific circumstances and state laws governing comparative negligence can determine liability.
What damages are recoverable in a sideswipe accident claim?
Victims of sideswipe accidents may seek compensation for various damages, including medical bills (past and future), lost wages or reduced earning capacity, property damage, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
An attorney will assess your case to determine which damages are applicable.
How long do I have to file a claim for a sideswipe accident?
The deadline to file a personal injury claim varies by state. In New York, the statute of limitations for many car accident claims is three years from the date of the accident, but every case is unique. Some cases have very short time deadlines, including notice of claim requirements.
Under these circumstances, fast action is best to preserve evidence and strengthen your case. It is a good idea to act fast to ensure that all potential claims are protected.
Does insurance always cover sideswipe accidents?
In most cases, the at-fault driver’s liability insurance should cover damages caused by a sideswipe accident.
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may need to rely on uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to recover compensation. An experienced attorney can help examine potential insurance coverages.
Contact an Experienced Accident Attorney Today
A sideswipe accident can happen when you least expect it. If you’ve been injured by a driver who sideswiped you, William Mattar, P.C. can help.
Our attorneys can help you file a claim. Complete our free online form or call (716) 444 - 4444 today for your free initial consultation with one of our attorneys.