All motorists must change lanes from time to time to pass a slower vehicle, merge onto a highway from an entrance ramp or enter a road from the shoulder. Unfortunately, sometimes drivers ignore the traffic rules that apply to changing lanes. A driver who makes an improper lane change or moves into another lane without the right of way may be at fault in a lane change collision.
If you have been hurt in a Connecticut lane change wreck, you may be entitled to seek compensation by filing a lane change accident claim. Before you can demand money from the driver responsible for the accident, you must have evidence to prove they are liable. The attorneys at Jainchill & Beckert, LLC, can help you determine who is at fault for a lane change accident in Connecticut and hold them financially accountable for your medical bills and other accident expenses.
If you have questions about a lane change accident in Connecticut, you should discuss the situation with our experienced car accident attorneys at Jainchill & Beckert, LLC, as soon as possible. We can outline your options for seeking compensation and help you make an informed decision about how to proceed. Contact us to learn more during a free consultation.
How Do You Prove Who Is Responsible for a Lane Change Accident?
When you file a lane change accident claim, the burden is on you to prove the other driver made an unsafe lane change, resulting in you getting hurt. Proving responsibility for a lane change accident requires evidence. Collecting the evidence to establish liability can be challenging when coping with painful crash injuries.
An experienced Connecticut lane change accident attorney can investigate the cause of the accident and gather evidence to support your injury claim. Our attorneys typically review eyewitness testimony, police reports, photographs, surveillance video, and cell phone records to understand how a lane change crash occurred and which driver was at fault.
What Are the Common Causes of Lane Change Accidents?
Before changing lanes, drivers must check to be sure there are no vehicles in the way, and that the lane is clear to enter. Drivers must check to the side and to the rear for other vehicles approaching from behind. Lane change accidents often occur when drivers fail to turn their heads to be sure no vehicles are occupying a blind spot in the adjacent lane.
Some common causes of Connecticut lane change accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Failure to monitor blind spots
- Failure to yield
- Drunk driving
- Failing to signal
- Tailgating
- Speeding
What Are Some Types of Injuries that Occur from Unsafe Lane Changes?
Lane change accidents can lead to serious injuries, especially when these accidents happen on interstates. Common examples of lane change accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Neck and spine injuries
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue damage
- Organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Contusions
- Lacerations
A lane change accident can also lead to anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. If you got hurt due to another driver’s carelessness in a lane change crash, you may have a right to demand compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial consequences you have suffered.
What Steps Should I Take To Change Lanes Properly?
Consider these simple driving tips:
- Always check your mirrors – Before you move to another lane, check your mirrors and make sure the lane is clear and no cars are approaching from behind.
- Check your blind spots – Blind spots are the areas around your vehicle that aren’t visible in your car mirrors. Turn your head to check your blind spots before changing lanes.
- Pass on the left – The left lane is the passing lane on multi-lane roads. Never attempt to pass someone on the right. Motorists are not expecting someone to pass on the right-hand side, increasing the risk of an accident.
- Drive smoothly – When passing, don’t slam on the brakes or suddenly increase your speed. Maintain an even pace, and move into neighboring lanes smoothly and predictably.
- Use your signals – Always use your turn signals to communicate your intent to change lanes to other drivers. Failing to signal is one of the most common mistakes that cause accidents.
Can I Sue the Driver Who Hit Me in a Lane Change Car Accident?
Most drivers involved in lane change accidents start by filing a claim against the at-fault driver’s auto liability insurance to cover their losses. Connecticut requires motorists to have liability insurance to pay for injuries and property damage the motorist causes. If the insurer disputes liability for the crash, then you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit to pursue compensation for your injuries.
It’s a good idea to take advantage of a free consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney before dealing with the other driver’s insurance company. A lane change accident lawyer at Jainchill & Beckert, LLC can evaluate the specifics of your case and help you determine whether a lawsuit is a reasonable option for you.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Connecticut?
Connecticut law gives accident victims just two years from the crash date to file a lawsuit.
Discussing your situation with an attorney as soon as possible after the lane change accident is critical. An experienced attorney can help you submit a claim and prepare a case for court if an insurer refuses to agree to a reasonable settlement. If you try to file a lawsuit after the two-year deadline, the court could dismiss your case, effectively eliminating your right to demand compensation.
Contact a Connecticut Car Accident Lawyer
A lane change accident can come out of nowhere and change your life forever. Should you have to pay the price for someone else’s careless behavior? At Jainchill & Beckert, LLC, we want to help you hold the at-fault driver accountable and seek justice.
Our seasoned lane change accident attorneys are ready to help you put your life back together. We will protect your rights and pursue the money you need to cover the losses from an accident that wasn’t your fault. Contact our Connecticut office today to arrange a free consultation with our knowledgeable car accident attorneys.
