St. Louis Sideswipe Accident Lawyer
Sideswipe Collision Lawyer
A sideswipe can happen in an instant, but the injuries and costs can last for months or years. Craig J. Concannon holds negligent drivers accountable and pursues the compensation you deserve.
The Mechanics of a Sideswipe
Minor damage, major injuries
A sideswipe collision happens when the side of one vehicle strikes the side of another traveling in the same or opposite direction. Some look minor, but they can quickly cause a driver to lose control, leading to secondary crashes, rollovers, or collisions with guardrails, trees or other vehicles.
If you were injured in a sideswipe accident in St. Louis or anywhere in Missouri, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages.
Whether your crash involved an unsafe lane change, a distracted driver or someone who failed to check their blind spot, Craig J. Concannon will review your case, investigate the crash, and represent you in court if necessary.
Investigating the crash
Paint transfer, damage location and video help show who left their lane.
Handling insurers
We deal with the insurance companies so you can focus on recovering.
Documenting damages
Medical bills, lost wages and the impact on your daily life.
Going to court if needed
If the insurer won't be fair, Craig is prepared to take your case further.
Case Investigation
Common causes of sideswipe crashes
Most sideswipes come down to a driver leaving their lane when it wasn't safe.
Unsafe lane changes
Changing lanes without signaling or making sure the lane is clear.
Blind spots
Failing to check mirrors and blind spots before merging.
Distracted & drifting drivers
Losing focus for a second can cause a car to drift into the next lane.
Merging & narrow lanes
Highway on-ramps, work zones and narrow roads with oncoming traffic.
Common Injuries
Common sideswipe injuries
Side impacts offer less protection than front or rear crashes.
Who Is At Fault
Who is at fault in a sideswipe?
Usually the driver who left their lane is at fault. Evidence that can prove it includes:
- Vehicle damage patterns showing the angle and direction of impact.
- Dash-cam and traffic camera video from your car, nearby vehicles or businesses.
- Witness statements from other drivers and passengers.
- The police report and any citations issued at the scene.
Missouri sideswipe claims
- Missouri follows pure comparative fault: you may recover even if partly responsible, with your award reduced by your percentage of fault.
- You may recover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and property damage.
- Most personal injury lawsuits must be filed within five years (RSMo § 516.120).
- Insurance companies often try to settle quickly for less than full value.
After the Crash
What to do after a sideswipe
Get to safety & call 911
Move out of traffic if you can and get a police report.
Photograph both cars
Capture the damage on both vehicles, lane markings and the scene.
Get medical care
Neck and head injuries from side impacts often show up later.
Talk to Craig first
Don't accept the insurance company's first offer before getting advice.
Sideswiped? Talk to Craig today.
Free, confidential consultation. No attorney fee unless you recover.
Questions