Car accidents are common, and unfortunately can bring a tremendous amount of medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering if there are injuries involved. One of the most common causes of a car accident is due to an unsafe lane change from a reckless or negligent driver. Almost one-tenth of all accidents in the United States are due to this frequent misjudgment by a driver, and the results can be catastrophic.

Improper Lane Changes

An improper lane change on a roadway is when a driver changes lanes, or attempts to change lanes, without a safe path to do so safely. Oftentimes, a high rate of speed is involved, and even more likely, the driver is distracted. By not taking the extra precautions to check their surroundings, and check their blind sports, improper lane changes can create horrific and devastating accidents. Some of the most common causes of improper lane changes include:

  • Driving while intoxicated (under the influence of drugs or alcohol)
  • Distracted driving
  • Aggressive driving
  • Failure to check blind spots
  • Failure to signal
  • Driver fatigue
  • Misjudgment of other vehicles
  • Poor weather conditions
  • Poor road conditions

Common Injuries

These types of accidents often cause serious and severe injuries. Typically, the driver making the improper lane change is speeding, and the resulting crash can be catastrophic. The most common injuries include:

  • Traumatic head injuries (concussions, etc.)
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Fractured bones
  • Back and Neck injuries
  • Disfigurement
  • Paralysis
  • Death

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident due to the negligent driving of another, you may have the right to receive compensation for your injuries.

Avoiding Unsafe Lane Changes

While you may have already been in a car accident involving an unsafe lane change, here are some ways to avoid unsafe lane change accidents in the future.

  • Change only one lane at a time
  • Check blind spots
  • Use your turn signal
  • Never speed up or slow down
  • Avoid the furthest left land
  • Keep both hands on the wheel
  • Yield to merging traffic
  • Never assume other drivers can see you
  • Never drive on the right side of a large truck
  • Be aware of your surroundings

Statute of Limitations

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has established a deadline that any personal injury lawsuit must be filed within two years of the date of the car accident. While this may seem as if you have an extended time to file a lawsuit, it is important to note that the negotiations with insurance companies are oftentimes complex, and the process can take an extremely long time.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer 

If you or a loved one was the victim of a car accident due to an unsafe lane change it is important to consult with an experienced car accident and personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to learn how you can receive compensation for your injuries. Contact the personal injury lawyers at the O’Donnell Law Offices serving clients in Kingston, Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton and Pittston at 570-821-5717 or online for a free consultation regarding your case.

Resource:

legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=75&div=0&chpt=33&sctn=9&subsctn=0

https://www.odonnell-law.com/2019/12/13/personal-injury-due-to-a-dog-attack/

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