Sideswipe Motorcycle Accidents

A sideswipe accident occurs when the side of one vehicle hits the side of another. These collisions can involve vehicles traveling in the same, or opposite, direction. More often than not, sideswipe crashes are the result of a driver’s negligence. When a motorcyclist is involved, significant and sometimes life-threatening injuries can result. Miami motorcycle accident lawyer Robert Dixon helps injured victims pursue the proper legal action against any negligent party. Those involved in sideswipe motorcycle accidents often need financial support above and beyond what is offered under their own, or another’s, insurance benefits. Personal injury claims, as well as those for wrongful death, require the assistance of an experienced and knowledgeable legal advocate who can make sure a victim’s rights are protected. Mr. Dixon and his staff at the Law Offices of Robert Dixon are dedicated to making sure victims in these accidents receive the compensation they need to recuperate from their injuries. If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle crash in the South Florida area of Miami-Dade, Broward, or Palm Beach County, we can help you determine your next legal step. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation to speak with an attorney regarding your potential case.

Sideswipe accidents can happen due to an array of factors. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has stated that sideswipe collisions result from human error. These errors can indicate a party’s negligence. In one study, the NHTSA found that the most common cause of a sideswipe crash was a driver’s failure to look before moving their vehicle. Other common causes include improper lane changes, turning at an intersection, as well as a driver misjudging the distance when maneuvering.

All types of vehicles may be involved in a sideswipe accident, however when a motorcycle is involved, they are much more dangerous. When being hit on the side, a motorcyclist could lose control or be ejected from the vehicle. Injuries that result from sideswipe motorcycle crashes can include broken bones, lacerations and bruises, as well as serious head injuries like traumatic brain injury. It is imperative that Miami motorcyclists involved in sideswipe collisions contact a lawyer.

Many sideswipe motorcycle accidents are due to another motorist’s negligence. Sometimes, another driver is trying to change lanes in front of a motorcyclist and misjudges the space they have. Negligence can be proven by showing that a defendant breached a duty of reasonable care owed to the injured victim, or plaintiff. All drivers owe each other, including motorcycle riders, a duty to act as a reasonable and prudent person would under the same or similar circumstances. An example of a breach of this duty would be if a driver fails to check his or her blind spot when making a turn. Negligence also requires that this breach causes the plaintiffs injuries. In the same example, if the driver sideswipes a motorcyclist, causing them to lose control and leading to injuries, that would satisfy causation.

Once negligence is shown, damages can be awarded. These damages may include past as well as future medical expenses, lost income, loss of earning capacity, and sometimes compensation for pain and suffering. If a sideswipe collision is fatal, family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. In these cases, certain relatives may be compensated for the victim’s outstanding medical bills, loss of support, and burial or funeral costs. Hiring an experienced lawyer can help accident victims receive the maximum compensation they deserve.

Motorcycle riders have the same rights to the roads as anyone else. Unfortunately, many other drivers disregard a motorcycle, leading to serious collisions. Miami attorney Robert Dixon can help people involved in sideswipe motorcycle accidents determine their next legal step. Mr. Dixon also offers compassionate and experienced legal support for families who have lost loved ones in a motorcycle crash. Please call the Law Offices of Robert Dixon today at 877.499.4878 or contact us online with any questions and to schedule a free, no obligation consultation to learn more.