Changing lanes is a part of regular driving, but it’s important to do so safely. Sadly, drivers can make improper lane changes that lead to accidents. If you were injured in this type of accident, you might be entitled to compensation.
Don’t hesitate to call our car accident lawyers at John Foy & Associates. We’ll look at your case and go over your rights. You can learn how much compensation the other driver owes you for the crash. We’re not afraid to fight for the money you deserve.
We’ll get you started with a free consultation. Reach out today by calling (404) 400-4000 or contacting us online.
Knowing Who’s at Fault in a Lane Change Accident
Before you can seek compensation, you must know who’s responsible for your accident. From there, you can prove how the other driver is at fault.
All drivers owe each other a “duty of care” to not act in a way that causes harm. When someone is not careful, it’s known as negligence under Georgia Code § 51-1-2.
Your personal injury claim must show that:
- The other driver was negligent.
- The driver’s negligence caused your accident.
- You have injuries and damages from the accident.
You and your lawyer must gather evidence to prove the above points. For example, you must show that the driver’s unsafe lane change led to your accident. Your lawyer will also gather proof of all costs from your accident.
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Essential Evidence for Your Accident Claim
After the crash, start saving proof the accident like:
- A copy of the police accident report
- Contact information for eyewitnesses
- Pictures from the accident scene
- Photos of your injuries and vehicle damage
- Your medical bills and other documents
If another driver caused your accident in Georgia, you can file a claim with their insurance company. Georgia is a fault state, but other states handle claims differently.
Your injury claim will need to support your request for money. It’s best to work with a lawyer who knows how to build a strong claim. They’ll also have access to important resources, such as accident reconstruction experts.
If you successfully prove fault, you have the best chance at fair compensation for your costs.
How Drivers Change Lanes Improperly
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a lane change is a “driving maneuver that moves a vehicle from one lane to another” where both lanes go the same direction.
When a car moves into another car’s lane, it can cause a crash. Drivers can make improper lane changes by:
- Moving into another vehicle’s path
- Turning into another car’s lane at an intersection
- Driving or weaving into another car’s lane
- Merging unsafely into traffic from a parked position
- Hitting another car while trying to pass them
- Merging onto a new road into the same traffic lane as another vehicle
- Changing lanes without signaling first
Drivers must always check their blind spots before changing lanes. Lane change accidents are especially common with large trucks, which have huge blind spots.
A driver could also cause an accident during a reckless lane change. For example, the driver might change lanes suddenly without alerting other motorists. When an accident happens, it can leave victims with severe injuries and other damages.
Gathering Evidence of a Lane Change Accident
The more information you can gather after your accident, the better. Thankfully, you don’t have to do it alone. A lawyer can compile evidence while you focus on healing.
Your lawyer will talk with any eyewitnesses to the accident. They’ll use their experience and resources to show what happened and who was at fault. Also, your lawyer can determine the full value of your damages.
Wait to speak with a car accident lawyer before filing a claim. You might be entitled to more money than you realize. To learn more during a free consultation, call John Foy & Associates at (404) 400-4000.
Reasons to Call a Personal Injury Lawyer After an Accident
You have legal rights if you didn’t cause your accident. But the burden is on you, as the victim, to fight for what you deserve. An experienced lawyer will know how to handle each step.
Here are some ways a lawyer helps your case.
Handling the Insurance Company
If another driver caused your accident with an improper lane change, they are responsible for your damages. You can seek compensation from the driver’s insurance company.
Frustratingly, insurance companies will look for any way to pay less. They might use tactics like:
- Blaming you for the accident
- Offering you a lowball settlement
- Questioning your injuries
- Intimidating you into accepting less
- Using anything that you say against you
The at-fault driver might also refuse to accept responsibility. But a car accident lawyer knows how to handle the other side. They’ll protect you from the insurance company and fight for a settlement you deserve.
Don’t accept any money or give any recorded statements without speaking to a lawyer. Anything you say or do could work against you. To know your full compensation options, call a lawyer.
Leveling the Playing Field
Insurance companies are powerful. They know how to intimidate injured drivers, and they’ll be reluctant to give what you deserve.
If you have a lawyer on your side, it levels the playing field. Plus, an insurer is more likely to negotiate if they see you’ve hired a lawyer.
If the insurance company won’t settle, your lawyer can help you file a lawsuit. Sometimes, threatening a court case will encourage the insurer to make a fair offer.
Get Help from an Improper Lane Change Accident Lawyer Today
An injury claim helps you fight for the compensation you deserve. Talk to a lawyer today about recovering your medical costs, lost wages, and much more.
John Foy & Associates has been helping injured clients for over 20 years. We know how to build cases, and we don’t charge you unless we win your case.
Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to find out how we’ll fight for your rights. We are available 24/7 to take your call, and we’ll start with a free consultation.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
