Sideswipe accidents might seem minor at first glance, but they can lead to serious injuries, extensive vehicle damage, and complicated legal disputes. Whether it happens during a lane change on I-24 or while merging on Memorial Boulevard, a sideswipe collision can catch you off guard and leave you with more questions than answers.
If you’ve been injured in a sideswipe accident in Murfreesboro, Labrum Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced car accident lawyer is dedicated to protecting the rights of accident victims and helping them recover the compensation they deserve. We understand Tennessee law, how insurance companies operate, and how to build a strong case on your behalf.
What Is a Sideswipe Accident?
A sideswipe accident occurs when two vehicles traveling in the same or opposite direction make contact along their sides. These crashes often happen when a driver:
- Merges without checking blind spots
- Drifts into another lane
- Changes lanes without signaling
- Misjudges the width of their vehicle
- Is distracted or impaired behind the wheel
While some sideswipe accidents are minor, others can cause one or both drivers to lose control, potentially leading to spinouts, rollovers, or collisions with other vehicles, barriers, or pedestrians. The risk increases dramatically at higher speeds or in busy traffic.
Common Causes of Sideswipe Accidents in Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro’s rapid growth and increased traffic congestion contribute to a higher risk of sideswipe accidents. Drivers navigating crowded roads like New Salem Highway, Medical Center Parkway, and Broad Street may engage in risky maneuvers that lead to collisions.
Typical causes include:
- Distracted driving (texting, adjusting the radio, eating)
- Improper lane changes
- Failure to yield while merging
- Driving under the influence
- Drowsy or fatigued driving
- Aggressive driving or road rage
- Poor weather or low visibility
In many cases, these crashes are preventable and occur due to negligence or carelessness behind the wheel.
Injuries Associated with Sideswipe Collisions
Though they may not always involve head-on impact, sideswipe accidents can still result in serious and long-lasting injuries—especially if one car is forced off the road or into another vehicle or object.
Common injuries include:
- Neck and back injuries (e.g., whiplash)
- Shoulder and arm trauma
- Concussions and other head injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones or fractures
- Lacerations and bruising
- Emotional distress and anxiety
Victims may not always experience symptoms right away, so it’s important to seek medical attention even if you feel okay immediately after the crash.
What to Do After a Sideswipe Accident
Your actions after a sideswipe collision can affect both your health and your ability to file a successful claim. Here’s what to do:
- Call 911: Always report the accident and request emergency services if anyone is hurt.
- Seek medical attention: Get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible.
- Document the scene: Take pictures of all vehicles involved, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange information: Collect names, contact details, and insurance info from all drivers.
- Get witness statements: If anyone saw the crash, ask for their contact info and what they observed.
- Avoid admitting fault: Let the investigation determine what happened.
- Contact Labrum Law Firm: A skilled Murfreesboro sideswipe accident lawyer can protect your rights from day one.
Proving Fault in a Sideswipe Crash
One of the most difficult aspects of sideswipe accidents is determining who was at fault. Often, both drivers claim they were staying in their lane, and there may be no obvious third-party witness.
At Labrum Law Firm, we conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the truth. We’ll examine:
- Police and accident reports
- Traffic camera or dashcam footage
- Skid marks and damage patterns
- Witness testimony
- Vehicle black box data
- Driver phone records (if distracted driving is suspected)
Our legal team works with accident reconstruction experts and other professionals to build a clear, evidence-based case that proves liability and supports your claim for compensation.
Compensation for Sideswipe Accident Victims
If another driver’s negligence caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Our firm can help you pursue a full recovery for:
- Medical bills and future treatment costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Mental and emotional distress
- Vehicle repairs or total loss replacement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Tennessee follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning you can still recover damages as long as you were less than 50% responsible for the crash. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault—another reason why building a strong case with an experienced attorney is so important.
Why Choose Labrum Law Firm?
At Labrum Law Firm, we pride ourselves on delivering personalized, aggressive legal representation for accident victims in Murfreesboro and throughout Middle Tennessee. We understand how disruptive and confusing life can become after a crash—and we’re here to take the legal burden off your shoulders.
When you work with us, you’ll get:
- Direct access to your attorney
- Prompt responses and clear communication
- A dedicated team that handles everything from start to finish
- No fees unless we win your case
We don’t take shortcuts, and we don’t settle for lowball offers. We fight for maximum compensation because you deserve nothing less.
Time Is Limited – Don’t Wait to Take Action
Tennessee law gives you only one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. This is one of the shortest deadlines in the country, and missing it could cost you your right to recover damages entirely.
That’s why it’s crucial to act quickly. The sooner you reach out to Labrum Law Firm, the sooner we can begin gathering evidence, talking to witnesses, and building your case.
Speak to a Murfreesboro Sideswipe Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a sideswipe accident, you don’t have to face the insurance companies alone. Labrum Law Firm is here to protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call now to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with a trusted Murfreesboro sideswipe accident lawyer. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
