Side-by-side car accidents can happen in an instant, and they often leave both drivers unsure about who was at fault. These types of collisions occur when two vehicles traveling side by side make contact. Whether due to a reckless lane change or distracted driving, these accidents can result in significant injuries and insurance disputes. If you have been involved in a side-by-side accident in Fort Myers, it is crucial to act quickly to protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover compensation.
What Is a Side-by-Side Car Accident?
A side-by-side car accident occurs when two vehicles traveling in adjacent lanes collide with each other. These accidents typically involve sideswipes or glancing blows and can range from minor to severe, depending on the speed and location of the impact.
Common Scenarios for Side-by-Side Collisions:
- Improper or unsignaled lane changes
- Failing to check blind spots
- Merging without yielding
- Distracted or drowsy driving
- Simultaneous lane changes by both drivers
These incidents are prevalent on highways, at intersections, and during heavy traffic.
Immediate Actions to Take After the Accident
What you do immediately after a crash can significantly affect your health, safety, and potential claim. Take the following steps to ensure you are protected.
What You Should Do:
- Move your vehicle to a safe area if possible
- Call 911 and wait for emergency services to arrive
- Avoid discussing fault with the other driver
- Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and road markings
- Get the names and contact information of any witnesses
- Request a copy of the police report once it is completed
- Seek medical care even if you feel uninjured
A calm and cautious approach at the scene can help you build a stronger case later.
Determining Fault in a Side-by-Side Collision
Determining fault in a side-by-side accident can be challenging. In many cases, both drivers claim the other drifted or changed lanes improperly. Florida uses a comparative negligence system, meaning both parties can share responsibility.
What Evidence Matters Most:
- Damage patterns on the vehicles
- Statements from eyewitnesses
- Traffic and dash cam footage
- Police report findings
- Road and weather conditions
A Fort Myers car accident lawyer can help interpret this evidence and build a compelling argument on your behalf.
How a Fort Myers Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Navigating a side-by-side accident claim on your own can be overwhelming, especially if injuries or liability disputes are involved. A Fort Myers personal injury lawyer can advocate for your rights while managing every aspect of your claim.
Legal Support You Can Expect:
- Investigation of the crash scene and involved vehicles
- Collaboration with accident reconstruction experts
- Communication with insurance providers
- Filing and negotiating your injury claim
- Taking your case to trial if necessary
Legal guidance ensures that you do not accept less than what your case is worth.
Let Us Help You After a Side-by-Side Crash
At the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll of car accidents. Our team has recovered millions for clients throughout Florida, including a $3.85 million verdict in a vehicle injury case. If you were hurt in a side-by-side collision, do not wait. Contact our Fort Myers personal injury lawyers for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win. Call us now at (954) 633-8270.
FAQs
What is a side-by-side car accident?
It is a collision involving two vehicles traveling in parallel lanes that come into contact, usually due to lane changes or drifting.
Who is usually at fault in a side-by-side accident?
Fault depends on who made an improper move, but both drivers can share liability under Florida’s comparative negligence rules.
Can I file a claim if the other driver only lightly hit my vehicle?
Yes. Even minor side impacts can cause injuries, especially at higher speeds, and you may be entitled to compensation.
What if there were no witnesses to the accident?
Dash cams, traffic cameras, and vehicle damage analysis can help establish what happened even without eyewitness testimony.
When should I contact a Fort Myers car accident lawyer?
As soon as possible. Early legal support helps preserve evidence and increases your chances of a successful outcome.
