Injured in a Lane Change Accident in Los Angeles? Here’s What You Should Do
If you’ve been injured in a lane change accident in Los Angeles, your first priority should be your safety. Once you have been treated and are recovering, your next focus is likely on securing compensation. Understanding California’s traffic laws and the steps involved in seeking compensation are key to obtaining justice for your injuries.
Common Causes of Lane Change Accidents in Los Angeles
Lane change accidents happen for various reasons, but some are more common than others. Driver negligence is a leading cause of lane change collisions. When drivers fail to visually check blind spots or fail to signal, this can create hazards that result in lane change collisions.
In congested areas, aggressive driving and sudden lane shifts increase the risk of collisions. Distracted driving (such as texting or adjusting navigation) prevents drivers from properly checking for nearby vehicles. Speeding and failure to check blind spots also contribute, particularly for large trucks with limited visibility. Poor weather, road construction, and impaired driving further elevate risks.
Understanding Fault Following a Lane Change Collision
Establishing fault following a lane change largely depends on who had the right of way. For traffic accidents in Los Angeles, the driver who stays in their lane is presumed to have the right of way. The driver who wishes to merge into another lane has an obligation to check blind spots, signal, and yield to traffic.
In some cases, liability may be shared if both drivers were speeding or engaged in reckless driving. Evidence can often settle the matter. Dashcam footage, witness statements, and police reports can determine fault. If both parties share fault, recovering compensation can become complicated.
Under Vehicle Code § 22107, a driver must not turn or move right or left until it is safe to do so. Vehicle Code § 21658 requires vehicles to stay within their lane unless a lane change can be made safely. Violating these laws may result in fines, DMV points, and increased liability in an accident claim.
Steps to Take Following a Lane Change Accident
Following a lane change accident, prioritize your safety. If your vehicle still works and you can safely drive it, move your car away from moving traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and call 911. Once EMS and police arrive, let a paramedic check you for injuries. The shock of a car collision can leave you unaware of certain injuries.
When you can safely do so, gather information from the parties involved in the crash. Write down license plate numbers and gather insurance details. Do not discuss the accident with other drivers. If their insurance providers call you, refer them to your attorney. Schedule a meeting with your doctor as soon as you can and let them conduct a thorough examination. As soon as you can, contact an attorney if you have not done so already.
Common Injuries that Result from Lane Change Collisions
Lane change accidents can cause serious injuries. If the collision happens at a high speed, it can cause catastrophic or grave injuries. Whiplash can result from these types of collisions. So can broken bones, concussions, and internal injuries.
In some cases, a serious injury may lead to temporary or permanent disabilities that can leave injured victims unable to return to their previous place of work. The psychological trauma of a serious collision can last for months or years and require counseling and medications.
Tips for Avoiding Lane Change Collisions
Some accidents are unavoidable, but many result from distracted driving and aggressive driving. To minimize your chances of being in a lane change accident, remember the principles of defensive driving. Check your blind spots before changing lanes, and always use your turn signal to alert other drivers about your intentions.
Maintain a safe distance from other drivers and scan the road and your side mirrors periodically to stay aware of other cars on the road. By remaining vigilant and alert, you can avoid being in a serious lane change collision.
FAQs
Q: Who Is at Fault in a Lane Change Accident in California?
A: The driver who is at fault for causing a lane change accident is typically the driver who violated one or more of California’s traffic rules. When a driver fails to check blind spots or yield, they can become financially liable for any physical damage or bodily harm that results from the collision. In some cases, liability can be shared if both parties were violating traffic laws at the moment of the collision.
Q: What Types of Compensation Can I Receive Following a Lane Change Collision?
A: If another driver caused your collision, you could be eligible for multiple forms of compensation. The negligent driver could be liable for covering the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and your medical bills. If they have adequate liability coverage, your compensation may come from their insurance policy. You also have the right to hire an attorney to consider the possibility of taking legal action in court.
Q: Does Right-of-Way Matter in a Lane Change Collision?
A: Yes, right-of-way is crucial in lane change accidents. Under California Vehicle Code § 22107, drivers must ensure a lane change is safe before moving. The vehicle already in the lane typically has the right-of-way, meaning the merging driver is often at fault if a collision occurs. However, shared liability may apply in some cases.
Q: Can Drivers Share Liability Following a Lane Change Collision?
A: Yes, in California, it is possible for one or more drivers to share liability following a car crash. If you are found to be 10% at fault for contributing to a lane change collision, any settlement you receive will be reduced by 10%. Having strong legal representation can ensure that you are not falsely accused of causing your own collision.
Schedule Your Lane Change Accident Consultation Today
Drivers have a duty to check around them before they change lanes. When they don’t, the consequences of the resulting collision can leave injured victims with serious injuries and emotional trauma. You don’t have to suffer the financial consequences of someone else’s negligent driving.
With legal representation from Shaffer Law, you can hold the negligent party accountable for causing your harm and receive fair compensation that pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.
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