What is a Sideswipe Accident?

January 22, 2025

The Risks of Sideswipe Collisions and How to Stay Safe

A sideswipe accident happens when two cars bump against each other while driving in the same direction. It usually happens when one car drifts into the other lane and scrapes the side of the other vehicle. While it may seem like a minor crash, it can still cause damage and injuries. Let’s take a closer look at sideswipe accidents and how to stay safe. 

A sideswipe accident happens when two cars bump against each other while driving in the same direction. It usually happens when one car drifts into the other lane and scrapes the side of the other vehicle. While it may seem like a minor crash, it can still cause damage and injuries. Let’s take a closer look at sideswipe accidents and how to stay safe. 

Common Causes of

Sideswipe Accidents

Sideswipe accidents happen for a few different reasons. Here are some of the most common causes: 


  • Not Checking Blind Spots: A lot of times, sideswipe accidents happen because a driver doesn’t check their blind spots before changing lanes. Always make sure no car is beside you before moving over. 
  • Drifting Into Another Lane: Sometimes, a driver drifts out of their lane, especially on highways. This can happen because they’re distracted, tired, or the road is slippery. 
  • Speeding or Aggressive Driving: Speeding, cutting people off, or not paying attention while driving increases the chances of causing a sideswipe accident. 
  • Merging Into Traffic: A car trying to merge into traffic without enough space or without signaling can cause a sideswipe collision. 

Common Causes of Sideswipe Accidents

Sideswipe accidents happen for a few different reasons. Here are some of the most common causes: 


  • Not Checking Blind Spots: A lot of times, sideswipe accidents happen because a driver doesn’t check their blind spots before changing lanes. Always make sure no car is beside you before moving over. 
  • Drifting Into Another Lane: Sometimes, a driver drifts out of their lane, especially on highways. This can happen because they’re distracted, tired, or the road is slippery. 
  • Speeding or Aggressive Driving: Speeding, cutting people off, or not paying attention while driving increases the chances of causing a sideswipe accident. 
  • Merging Into Traffic: A car trying to merge into traffic without enough space or without signaling can cause a sideswipe collision. 

Common Injuries in Sideswipe Accidents

Even though sideswipe accidents might seem less severe than head-on crashes, they can still cause injuries. Some of the most common injuries include: 


  • Whiplash: A sudden jolt from a sideswipe can cause neck pain, known as whiplash. 
  • Head Injuries: The impact may cause concussions or other head injuries. 
  • Fractures: You might get a broken bone, especially in your arms, legs, or ribs. 
  • Soft Tissue Injuries: This includes sprains or strains in your muscles or ligaments. 
  • Emotional Stress: The stress and shock of the accident can also have emotional effects. 

Proving Who’s at Fault in a Sideswipe Accident

When a sideswipe accident happens, figuring out who’s at fault is important. Here’s how it’s done: 


  • Traffic Laws: If the driver broke any traffic laws, like failing to signal before changing lanes, they may be found at fault. 
  • Eyewitnesses: If there are witnesses who saw the accident, their testimony can help prove who caused it. 
  • Police Report: The police report can show the details of the accident and help figure out who is responsible. 
  • Evidence: Pictures, video footage, and car damage can also help determine fault. 

Proving Who’s at Fault in a Sideswipe Accident

When a sideswipe accident happens, figuring out who’s at fault is important. Here’s how it’s done: 


  • Traffic Laws: If the driver broke any traffic laws, like failing to signal before changing lanes, they may be found at fault. 
  • Eyewitnesses: If there are witnesses who saw the accident, their testimony can help prove who caused it. 
  • Police Report: The police report can show the details of the accident and help figure out who is responsible. 
  • Evidence: Pictures, video footage, and car damage can also help determine fault. 

How to Prevent a

Sideswipe Accident

You can take steps to prevent a sideswipe accident by: 


  • Check Your Blind Spots: Always check your blind spots before changing lanes. 
  • Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep enough space between your car and other vehicles, especially on highways. 
  • Signal Before Changing Lanes: Always use your turn signal to let other drivers know your intentions. 
  • Stay Alert: Avoid distractions like texting or using your phone while driving. Keep your eyes on the road. 
  • Be Defensive: Watch for dangerous drivers and be ready to react to avoid accidents. 

How to Prevent a Sideswipe Accident

You can take steps to prevent a sideswipe accident by: 


  • Check Your Blind Spots: Always check your blind spots before changing lanes. 
  • Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep enough space between your car and other vehicles, especially on highways. 
  • Signal Before Changing Lanes: Always use your turn signal to let other drivers know your intentions. 
  • Stay Alert: Avoid distractions like texting or using your phone while driving. Keep your eyes on the road. 
  • Be Defensive: Watch for dangerous drivers and be ready to react to avoid accidents. 

Sideswipe accidents happen when cars brush against each other, often due to lane changes or distracted driving. While they might not always cause major damage, they can still lead to injuries and legal problems. Knowing how to avoid these accidents and what to do if you’re involved in one can help keep you safe. 



If you’ve been in a sideswipe accident, it's important to know your rights. Contact us today to get guidance on what to do next and learn how you can receive compensation for your injuries and damages. 

Share this blog with friends and family to help raise awareness about the dangers of sideswipe accidents. Understanding what a sideswipe accident is, its common causes, and how to prevent it can help drivers stay safe on the road and avoid unnecessary collisions.