Mississippi Sideswipe Accident Lawyer

Sideswipe Accident Lawsuits in Mississippi

Sideswipe accidents may seem minor compared to head-on or rear-end collisions, but they often result in significant damage, serious injuries, and even fatalities. These accidents frequently occur when one vehicle drifts out of its lane or during unsafe lane changes, leading to contact between vehicles traveling side by side. The consequences can be devastating, especially on highways or roads with high-speed traffic.

At Barrett Law, PLLC, we understand the challenges sideswipe accident victims face. Attorney Jonathan Barrett, a seasoned Mississippi Sideswipe Accident Lawyer, has decades of experience helping victims and their families recover full compensation for their losses. If you or a loved one have been injured in a sideswipe accident in Mississippi, you need a skilled attorney to ensure justice is served and the responsible party is held accountable.

Understanding Sideswipe Accidents

A sideswipe accident occurs when the side of one vehicle collides with the side of another vehicle traveling in the same or opposite direction. While some sideswipes may cause minor cosmetic damage, others can result in catastrophic injuries if the impact forces one or both vehicles off the road or into other lanes of traffic.

Common Causes of Sideswipe Accidents:

Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, eating, or otherwise distracted may drift out of their lane.
Improper lane changes: Failing to check blind spots or use turn signals can result in a collision.
Aggressive driving: Speeding, tailgating, or weaving between lanes increases the risk of sideswipe accidents.
Fatigued driving: Drowsy drivers may lose focus and veer into adjacent lanes.
Drunk driving: Impaired drivers often struggle to maintain control and stay in their lane.
Road conditions: Slippery roads or debris can cause vehicles to veer into other lanes unexpectedly.

Injuries and Damages in Sideswipe Accidents

Even at low speeds, sideswipe accidents can lead to severe injuries due to the sudden force of impact. Common injuries include:

Whiplash and neck injuries
Spinal cord injuries that may result in partial or complete paralysis
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) caused by head impact
Broken bones and fractures
Soft tissue injuries, including sprains and torn ligaments
Internal organ damage due to the force of the collision

In the most tragic cases, sideswipe accidents can result in fatalities, leaving families to cope with the emotional and financial burden of losing a loved one. At Barrett Law, PLLC, we are dedicated to helping victims and their families recover compensation for:

Medical expenses
Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Property damage
Funeral and burial costs in wrongful death cases

Who Is Affected and Why?

Sideswipe accidents affect drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Victims are often:

Innocent motorists who are hit by distracted or negligent drivers.
Motorcyclists and bicyclists who suffer severe injuries due to their lack of protection.
Pedestrians hit by vehicles pushed off the road during a sideswipe collision.

The emotional, physical, and financial toll on these victims can be immense. Jonathan Barrett and the team at Barrett Law, PLLC, have the experience and resources to fight for maximum compensation for those affected.

Legal Obligations and Mississippi Statutes

Under Mississippi law, drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly to prevent harm to others. When drivers fail to maintain their lane, signal lane changes, or exercise due caution, they may be held liable for any resulting damages.

Relevant Mississippi Laws:

Mississippi Code § 63-3-611: Requires drivers to use turn signals when changing lanes or turning.
Mississippi Code § 63-3-601: Obligates drivers to stay within their designated lane unless it is safe to change lanes.
Mississippi Comparative Negligence Rule: Allows victims to recover damages even if they are partially at fault, as long as their fault does not exceed 50%.

Victims typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit under Mississippi’s statute of limitations. However, building a strong case requires acting quickly to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and preserve records.

Practical Steps After a Sideswipe Accident

If you’ve been involved in a sideswipe accident in Mississippi, taking the right steps can protect your legal rights and improve your chances of securing fair compensation:

Seek medical attention immediately: Even if you feel fine, injuries may not be immediately apparent. Medical records are also crucial evidence for your case.
Call law enforcement: A police report documenting the accident can serve as key evidence in proving liability.
Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the damage to your vehicle. Collect contact information from witnesses.
Avoid admitting fault: Do not apologize or admit blame, as this could be used against you later.
Consult a lawyer: Contact an experienced sideswipe accident lawyer like Jonathan Barrett to evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the other driver denies responsibility?
If the other driver denies fault, gather as much evidence as possible, including photos, witness statements, and the police report. An experienced attorney can help prove liability through a thorough investigation.

Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Mississippi’s comparative negligence rule allows you to recover damages as long as your fault does not exceed 50%. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How do I prove the other driver was at fault?
Proving fault often requires evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, accident reconstruction reports, and physical evidence from the scene.

What types of damages can I recover in a sideswipe accident lawsuit?
Victims may recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. In wrongful death cases, families may recover funeral costs and loss of companionship.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
In Mississippi, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is three years from the date of the accident. It’s important to act quickly to preserve evidence and build a strong case.

Can I handle the insurance claim on my own?
While you can handle your own claim, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Working with an experienced lawyer ensures you receive the full compensation you deserve.

What if the other driver’s insurance company offers me a settlement?
Do not accept any settlement offer without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often offer low settlements to close cases quickly. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair amount.

Do I need to go to court for a sideswipe accident claim?
Not necessarily. Many claims are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may recommend taking the case to court.

Why should I hire Barrett Law, PLLC?
Jonathan Barrett has decades of experience representing sideswipe accident victims across Mississippi. He provides personalized attention and aggressively fights for maximum compensation.

What if the at-fault driver is uninsured?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Injured or Lost a Loved One in a Sideswipe Accident in Mississippi? Call Mississippi Sideswipe Accident Lawyer Jonathan Barrett 24/7/365 at (601) 790-1505 for Your FREE Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a sideswipe accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Barrett Law, PLLCrepresents clients across Mississippi, including Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, Hattiesburg, Biloxi, Olive Branch, Tupelo, Meridian, Pearl, Madison, Greenville, Oxford, Clinton, Horn Lake, and Brandon. Attorney Jonathan Barrett is dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

Call (601) 790-1505 for a FREE consultation, available 24/7/365. Let us help you move forward after a sideswipe accident.