5 Ways Lane Change Accidents Happen

Drivers have to be very keen on their surroundings and alert when they are driving. It is imperative that a driver is not only watching other vehicles when they decide to make a move on the road, but also be aware of what vehicles around them do. When a driver is not paying attention or driving responsibly, a crash can easily take place. In Pennsylvania, automobile accidents happen every day. In 2021 alone, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, there were approximately 13 crashes across the state every single hour that year. 

One of the most common maneuvers that a driver can make is to change lanes. While this action seems fairly innocuous, the reality is that if not done correctly, a lane change can lead to a serious accident.

If you were injured in a car accident in Pennsylvania or if you know someone who was injured in a crash, you may be able to seek compensation for the damages that resulted. The Pennsylvania car accident attorneys at Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP can help you after a crash and provide you with more information about injury claims and if you would benefit from filing your own. 

5 Causes of Lane Change Accidents

Many car accidents could have been prevented if a driver or others involved would have acted in a more responsible manner. The truth is that crashes happen largely because of driver error and misjudgment. Lane change accidents are no exception.

When making a lane change, it is first important to use one’s mirrors to see what cars are nearby and if a lane change is possible. Timing the move and also giving enough room between cars is equally important. If not done correctly, there can be serious consequences from a resulting accident.

Some of the ways that a lane change accident can happen include any of the following:

• Not giving enough space and cutting others off.
• Feeling drowsy, tired, or unfocused can lead to mistakes in judgment that can lead to a crash.
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can also cause affect a driver’s decision-making.
• Missing cars that are driving in a blind spot.
• Not paying attention to the road and driving distracted.

When it comes to liability, the driver that made the lane change and hits another car would typically be the party responsible for the incident happening and the damages that come about thereafter. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the lane change accident, like excessive speed or many other cars on the road, this one move can cause a catastrophic crash. It is possible that more than one car can become involved and considerable damages and even death result. 

This could mean that the amount of compensation owed to victims may be extensive. An attorney with experience evaluating car accidents would be able to give victims a better idea of what their claim is worth.

Speak with an Attorney at Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP

If you were harmed in a Pennsylvania traffic accident, please do not wait to reach out to an attorney for assistance and support. The Pennsylvania car accident lawyers at Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP offer free consultations. Please call today to schedule yours at (215) 731-9900.