Picture this scenario: you are driving the speed limit and keeping your eyes on the road when suddenly, without signaling, the driver to your right changes into your lane. Before you can react, he crashes into you. As a result, you wind up suffering a long-term injury that keeps you away from work and you are left wondering how you will afford to pay your medical bills.
At Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton in Provo, UT, we have handled many cases involving auto accidents and improper lane changes. Victims of auto accidents may be able to obtain compensation to cover their expenses.
Common Causes of an Improper Lane Change Accident
Improper lane changes leave drivers with no time to react and no room to avoid an accident. Typically, improper lane change accidents happen when:
- The driver fails to signal before changing lanes
- The driver fails to check rear-view mirrors before changing lanes
- The driver failed to align the rear-view mirrors correctly prior to driving
- The driver fails to account for vehicles in his or her blind spot
- The driver attempts to change across multiple lanes in a single maneuver
- The driver was using a cell phone to text or make a phone call
- The driver was speeding and, after changing lanes, was forced to slam on the brakes directly in front of you
- The driver was fatigued
- The driver was intoxicated
- The driver was negligent or reckless
Common Injuries Resulting from an Improper Lane Change Accident
Many factors play a role in the outcome of an improper lane change accident, such as the speed at which you and the other driver were going, whether or not you and the other driver were wearing seatbelts, and what type of car you and the other driver were in. Outcomes of improper lane change accidents often include:
- Death
- Paralysis
- Traumatic brain injury
- Internal organ failure
- Burns
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Bruising and cuts
The Importance of a Good Personal Injury Attorney
In Utah, drivers are required to purchase personal injury protection (PIP) to cover medical bills, lost wages, and any other expense incurred as a result of an accident. However, PIP only covers $3,000. Provided the accident resulted in medical expenses in excess of $3,000, death, dismemberment, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement, you meet the threshold to file a claim for damages.
While the court cannot fix your injury, they can order that the responsible party pay you money for their wrongdoing. At Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton, we will assess your individual needs and present the facts to make sure you receive the money you need.
Schedule a Consultation
An auto accident can cause lasting physical, emotional, and financial pain. If you are a victim in an improper lane change accident, do not settle for less than you are owed. Our experienced attorneys at Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton will work on your behalf to ensure that you receive adequate compensation to cover your losses. To learn more, visit us online or call (801) 370-0505 today to schedule a free initial consultation.