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In a lane change accident, fault can be difficult to determine. Establishing fault is critical, however, if you hope to recover compensation for your injuries and other damages. If you or a loved one sustained injuries in an accident caused by another driver’s actions, you may be wondering whether you have the basis for pursuing an insurance settlement or civil lawsuit.
Who Is at Fault for a Car Accident While Changing Lanes in Wyoming?
BlogThe best way to get the answers you need is to consult with an experienced Wyoming car accident lawyer.
At Platte River Injury Law, we understand the importance of investigating and documenting your injury accident case as quickly and extensively as possible. Building the strongest possible case helps us recover the compensation you deserve. However, as time is of the essence after any personal injury accident, acting quickly can also help ensure that you get the best possible outcome in your case.
If a Car Hit Me While Changing Lanes, Is the Other Driver at Fault?
Every motor vehicle collision is unique. For this reason, it is not possible to answer this question in a general sense. However, a driver who collides with another vehicle while moving from one lane to another is often at fault.
Drivers have an obligation to verify that a lane change is safe before executing the maneuver. Drivers must also notify others on the roadway of their intent to change lanes. If a motorist fails to take the necessary precautions and, as a result, collides with another vehicle in the process, they may be at fault for any injuries and other damages their actions cause.
Sometimes drivers fail to stay in their lane due to being distracted or impaired or because they are not acting with appropriate diligence and care behind the wheel. If a driver fails to take reasonable care on the road, they may be at fault for any damages that result.
What if I Was Changing Lanes Before a Car Accident?
In some cases, motor vehicle collisions occur when both drivers are attempting to make a lane change. In other cases, you might have been the only driver making a lane change before a collision. Even so, you could still be entitled to recover compensation for some or all of your damages.
Wyoming law allows injury victims to recover damages even if they contributed to the accident as long as they did not have more than 50% of the fault for the accident. However, your damage award will be reduced by the amount of fault you had in the accident. For example, if you are found to have been 25% at fault for an accident in which you suffered injuries and the damage award was $100,000, you would still be eligible to recover $75,000.
A Car Merged Into My Lane and Hit Me; Now What?
After a sideswipe accident or any other collision that results from a lane change, focus on safety first. Move to a safe location well clear of the roadway and call the police or 911. You will need to report the accident and, in most cases, get checked out at the scene by paramedics. Do not admit to any fault for the crash, even if you believe you caused or contributed to the accident. A full investigation might prove you wrong in that assumption.
Collect contact information for all parties involved in the collision as well as any witnesses on the scene. Take photos of the vehicles, the crash scene, and any other relevant details that you might notice nearby. Provide a statement to the police with the facts of the incident as you recall them, but do not discuss the crash with anyone else.
After you leave the scene, seek medical attention at the emergency room, at an urgent care center, or from another qualified medical professional. You could have injuries that you aren’t aware of, and getting comprehensive treatment will provide the best chance for your recovery. You will also need the doctor’s records once your attorney begins to document your case. Do not speak to the insurance company or provide any statement until you have spoken with an attorney.
Contact a Wyoming Car Accident Lawyer Now for Help
At Platte River Injury Law, our Wyoming personal injury attorneys can help you explore your options and get started with the legal process. We successfully negotiate a settlement with the insurance company for most of our clients. This helps you get the resources you need as quickly as possible. We handle every part of your claim, so you can be free to focus on your recovery and getting your life back on track.
Contact us to schedule a free consultation and case evaluation or to speak with a Wyoming car accident attorney now.