Determining Fault in Side-Impact Collisions in Cumming, GA

If another motorist either swipes or drives directly into the side of your vehicle, it leaves you highly vulnerable to serious injuries and loss. Side-impact collisions like these are not only dangerous but can also make it more challenging to determine fault. If you or someone you care about has been injured in a side-impact accident, turn to an experienced car accident attorney at Banks, Stubbs & McFarland in Cumming, GA, for the skilled legal guidance you need.

Side-Impact Collisions

Side impact crashes come in several basic forms, including side swipe accidents, T-bone accidents, and angled crashes. Side swipe accidents refer to incidents when one driver swipes the side of another’s vehicle. T-bone accidents, on the other hand, occur when one motorist crashes directly into another driver at a 90-degree angle, forming a “T” in the process. Angled accidents involve one driver crashing into the side of another motorist’s car at a sharper angle.

Fault in Side-Impact Crashes

When it comes to side-impact accidents, fault is generally determined as a matter of right-of-way. The rules of the road determine who has the right of way at any given time. When motorists fail to yield the right of way as required, it sets the stage for dangerous collisions, including side-impact accidents. 

The Right-of-Way 

Generally, questions about the right-of-way arise when motorists change lanes, make turns, take exits, or enter intersections. When a motorist leaves the lane they are driving in or enters an intersection, they must first make sure that the roadway or intersection is clear of other motorists.

Changing Lanes

Before changing lanes, motorists are required to ensure it’s safe to do so and the lane they are attempting to merge into is clear. Motorists who fail to take the necessary precautions, such as distracted or speeding drivers, often cause side-impact accidents.

Making Turns

Drivers must pay close attention to traffic signs and signals when making turns. It’s crucial to verify that the lane is clear and the conditions are safe before proceeding. Careful timing and awareness help prevent side-impact collisions in these situations.

Intersections

Knowing how to handle intersections safely is one of the most important ways to avoid liability and reduce the risk of serious crashes. The rules vary depending on the setup:

  • Uncontrolled intersections: When no signs or signals are present, you hold the right of way if you arrive first.
  • Stop signs: Come to a complete stop, then continue only when the path is safe.
  • Traffic lights: Obey the color of the signal—green means go, red means stop, and yellow signals caution.
  • Four-way stops: Vehicles move in the order they arrive, with drivers yielding to those who got there first.

Proving Fault

Proving that the other driver caused the side-impact accident that left you injured will come down to the evidence, which your seasoned car accident lawyer will skillfully gather and effectively compile. The kind of evidence that tends to play a critical role includes eyewitness testimony, police reports, any citations issued, their disposition, physical evidence, and footage captured by dashcams, traffic cameras, and onlookers.

Consult with an Experienced Cumming Car Accident Lawyer Today

The dedicated Cumming car accident attorneys at Banks, Stubbs & McFarland are committed to building a strong case that clearly demonstrates the other driver’s negligence in the side-impact crash that caused you to be injured – and to fiercely advocate for your rightful compensation. Learn more by contacting us online or calling 770-887-1209 today.