Changing lanes dangerously is one of the top causes of motor vehicle accidents in the United States today. From blind spots to high speeds, there are a number of factors that may contribute to a driver making the decision to change lanes prior to thoroughly ensuring that it is safe to do so. Therefore, all Tennessee motorists must understand the importance of exercising extreme caution prior to switching from one lane to another.
Greg Coleman Law has seen countless numbers of auto accidents which were sparked by a negligent driver who is changing lanes dangerously. The associated injuries and damages from these hazardous activities have the ability to truly change ones life. If you or a loved one has been involved in an auto accident due to changing lanes dangerously, our Knoxville personal injury lawyers are here to help.
To learn more about your legal options, please complete a Free Case Review form on this page.
Causes of Changing Lane Accidents
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that about 9 percent of all motor vehicle accidents occur due to some kind of lane changing or merging collision. These types of crashes are often catastrophic because the other vehicle involved in the accident is caught off guard and left in a very vulnerable position. As such, changing lanes dangerously leaves the accident victim unable to react in order to avoid the crash.
The following are some of the most common causes of changing lanes dangerously:
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Improperly looking prior to lane change
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Driver distraction due to eating, cell phone use, reading, etc.
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Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
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Weather conditions limiting the drivers ability to see clearly
Changing lanes dangerously is especially hazardous during highway travel. When the speeds of the vehicles involved in the accident increase, the associated injuries and damages increase as well. As a result, when traveling on the Tennessee roads and highways, all motorists must exercise extreme caution prior to switching lanes. More often than not, those involved in a lane change accident will note that they did not take the time to accurately assess whether or not it was safe to change into a different lane.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident involving lane changing, Greg Coleman Law is prepared to take on your case today. We have the experience, knowledge, and compassion necessary to seek the maximum compensation that you and your family members deserve.
Fill out our Free Case Review form on this page to get started today.
Avoiding a Lane Change Crash
While changing lanes dangerously certainly leads to some catastrophic collisions, it is important to note that these types of accidents are largely preventable. Taking a number of basic precautions will help to greatly reduce the amount of injuries and damages associated with these kinds of accidents. From a positive perspective, the majority of the prevention tips are learned when a driver receives their license. Unfortunately, however, many of these basic precautions are forgotten with time.
First and foremost, all Tennessee drivers must utilize their turning signals prior to switching from one lane to another. Turning signals are the only means of communication to the other motorists on the road and are essential to preventing auto accidents. Next, it is important to only change one lane at a time, as other drivers are unaware of your intentions. In addition, never cross lanes which are separated by solid lines.
Next, be sure to never change lanes in an intersection or even close to an intersection. Finally, be sure to maintain your current speed while changing lanes; do not increase speeds to do so. Keeping these precautionary tips in mind will help drivers to avoid a potential crash. Being aware of these rules of the road will place drivers in the best position to safely travel from destination to destination.
Contact an Experienced Lawyer Today
Greg Coleman Law takes pride in our role in the Tennessee community. Offering a combination of experience, knowledge, and a deep passion for the law, our Knoxville personal injury attorneys understand what it takes to remain successful in the courtroom. We take the time to get to know both you and your case. In this way, our experienced lawyers are able to concentrate on your legal proceedings while you and your loved ones focus on recovering.
Complete a Free Case Review form above to learn more today.
