Michigan Sideswipe Truck Accident Attorney

Semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles can cause incomprehensible damage under even the best circumstances. However, few types of truck crashes are as dangerous as sideswipe accidents. Also referred to as T-bone collisions, the lack of protection at the point of impact makes crashes into a vehicle’s side exceptionally deadly. Victims who survive are often left with permanent and life-altering injuries.

At Sommers Schwartz, our lawyers have extensive experience helping injury victims recover the essential compensation they need after a truck accident. Our attorneys have the skill, dedication, and resources required to take on the largest and most powerful insurance companies in the country. We pride ourselves on our reputation for aggressive advocacy on behalf of our clients. 

How Do Sideswipe Accidents Happen?

Due to the state’s location and proximity to the Great Lakes, Michigan roads see significant truck traffic. This, unfortunately, makes accidents far too common. In 2018 alone, 15,539 collisions involving trucks caused over 2,600 injuries and 116 deaths. 

Given the angle at which the vehicles collide, these collisions almost always involve an intersection. Many occur as one vehicle attempts a left turn, which often requires crossing a lane of traffic. Confusion over who has the right of way and challenges assessing the speed of an oncoming vehicle can make these scenarios exceptionally dangerous.

There are many ways a truck driver may cause a sideswipe accident, including:

• Entering the intersection without checking for oncoming traffic.
• Running a red light.
• Making a left turn against a red light, cutting off an approaching vehicle.

Determining Fault in a Sideswipe Accident:

One of the most important requirements of a personal injury claim is determining who caused the collision. While every accident is different, a few general rules often come into play when discussing sideswipe crashes.

For example, drivers making left turns must yield to oncoming motorists. This means a truck driver at a green light must not turn until the intersection is clear. If the driver attempts to make the turn and a collision occurs, the truck driver will generally be held liable. 

Of course, liability is easy to determine when one driver runs a stop sign or red light. But not every sideswipe accident neatly fits one of these categories. Unfortunately, even when one driver is obviously at fault, the defense will often poke holes in the plaintiff’s liability argument. This can result in a reduction of the damages for the plaintiff.

The role of a personal injury attorney is to present all possible variables in your favor. We formulate an argument that places you in the best possible light to recover the total amount of compensation you deserve.

Contact Us Today:

If you or a loved one was recently hurt in a Michigan truck accident, Sommers Schwartz is available to provide immediate assistance. Our personal injury lawyers are known across the country for their skill, dedication, and tenacity. We offer free consultations to all accident victims, during which we will answer your questions and help you make the best decision for yourself and your family. We handle all cases on a contingency basis, meaning you are not responsible for any legal fees unless we succeed. To learn more and schedule a free consultation today, give us a call at (800) 783-0989. You can also reach us through our online form.