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When a sideswipe accident occurs, the side of one vehicle collides with the side of another vehicle, either going in the same direction or in the opposite direction. Sideswipe accidents happen most frequently when changing lanes, making turns, or merging with other traffic. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that sideswipe accidents are the result of human error.

In a NHTSA study titled, Analysis of Lane Change Crashes and Near Crashes, it showed that sideswipes most often involve a driver’s failing to look before moving. The most common sideswipe accidents are:

1. Sideswipe occurring at intersections, when drivers attempt to make a turn.
2. Sideswipe occurring when drivers hit parked, either occupied or unoccupied vehicles.
3. Sideswipe occurring when driver misjudges the maneuvering space.
4. Sideswipe occurring when drivers attempt to avoid a potential crash in front of them.

Sideswipe accidents can happen with any type of vehicle, but when a motorcycle is involved, it can be very dangerous. The motorcyclist can lose control or potentially get run over by the vehicle striking him or her. Not only is vehicle size disparity a problem, but also speed and impact can cause catastrophic injuries.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that 30 percent of all non-fatal motorcycle injuries were on the lower extremities. The next most common injuries (22 percent of the total) were to the upper trunk (i.e. chest, shoulder and back) wounds, then arms and hands, then lower trunk (i.e. hips and pelvis).

When motorcyclists are injured in an accident, their injuries may be life-changing. In addition to any potential compound fractures or multiple contusions, they may suffer brain damage, which may not heal. Internal injuries are always a threat and may not initially be detected. Hemorrhaging from an internal injury can be fatal. All of these injuries may cause missed work time, or lead to not ever being able to work again.

“Should a motorcyclist be in an accident, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible to determine whether he or she is entitled to potential compensation for past and future medical care expenses, past and future lost wages, past and future pain and suffering, and past and future loss of enjoyment of life. Our experienced legal team at Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. is available 24/7, and there are no costs or attorney fees unless we make a monetary recovery for you,” said Fort Myers Motorcycle Accident Attorney Randall Spivey.

Fort Myers Motorcycle Accident Attorney, Randall L. Spivey is a Board Certified Trial Attorney – the highest recognition for competence bestowed by the Florida Bar and a distinction earned by just one (1%) percent of Florida attorneys.  He has handled over 2,000 personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida.  For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., in Lee County at 239.337.7483 or toll free at 1.888.477.4839, or by email to Randall@SpiveyLaw.com.  Visit SpiveyLaw.com for more information.  You can contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.in Charlotte County at 941.764.7748 and in Collier County 239.793.7748.