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Sideswipe accidents · Established 1960
Connecticut Sideswipe Car Accident Lawyer
Sideswipe crashes often turn into a dispute over who changed lanes. We help preserve the evidence and explain where you stand.
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Connecticut Sideswipe Car Accident Lawyer
No fees unless we win. Free case evaluations, 24/7. More than 50 years serving Connecticut injury victims. Every consultation is 100% confidential, with no obligation.
Sideswipe accidents are often dismissed as minor collisions, but they can cause a driver to lose control, enter another lane, strike a guardrail or collide with additional vehicles. Even when the vehicles initially make contact at relatively low speeds, the sudden impact can cause painful injuries and extensive property damage.
These claims can also become difficult because the drivers may give completely different accounts of what happened. One driver may claim that the other vehicle drifted into their lane, while the other insists that they were sideswiped during an unsafe lane change. Without photographs, video footage or independent witnesses, the insurance companies may dispute responsibility.
If you were injured in a sideswipe accident in Connecticut, McCoy & McCoy can investigate how the collision occurred, identify the responsible driver and pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost income and other losses. Our firm has represented injured people throughout Connecticut for more than 60 years. Consultations are free, and you pay no attorney’s fee unless we recover compensation for you.
50+ Years of Combined Experience
With over 50 years of combined experience, we know how to build strong cases and win maximum compensation for our clients.
Family Owned & Client Focused
We treat you like family, not a file. Compassionate, hands-on support every step of the way.
Millions Recovered for Injured Clients
We have secured millions for injured clients – and we don’t back down when it matters most.
No Fees Unless We Win
We handle everything at no cost to you unless we win. No fees, no pressure, no surprises.
Who Is at Fault in a Sideswipe Accident?
The driver who moved outside of their lane or attempted an unsafe lane change is often responsible for a sideswipe accident. However, fault depends on the specific movements of each vehicle before the collision.
A driver may be responsible when they:
- Change lanes without checking their mirrors or blind spot
- Merge before there is enough space
- Drift across lane markings
- Fail to signal before changing lanes
- Pass another vehicle when it is unsafe
- Enter traffic from a shoulder, parking space or driveway
- Become distracted by a phone, navigation system or passenger
- Drive while fatigued, impaired or unable to maintain their lane
In some cases, both drivers may share responsibility. For example, one driver may begin an unsafe lane change while the other speeds up or fails to take reasonable action to avoid the collision.
Connecticut follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means an injured person may still be able to recover compensation when they are partially responsible, as long as their percentage of fault is not greater than the combined negligence of the parties they are seeking compensation from. Any recovery may be reduced according to their assigned percentage of fault.
How Do You Prove Who Switched Lanes in a Sideswipe Car Accident?
Because sideswipe accidents frequently involve conflicting stories, physical and electronic evidence can be especially important. The location and direction of the damage may help accident investigators determine how the vehicles came into contact.
Evidence may include:
- Photographs of both vehicles
- Scrape marks and paint transfer
- Damage along the driver or passenger side
- Debris and tire marks on the roadway
- The position of the vehicles after impact
- Lane markings and road conditions
- Traffic, security or dash camera footage
- Statements from independent witnesses
- Police observations and accident reports
- Vehicle event data or electronic records
- Cellphone records when distracted driving is suspected
Do not rely exclusively on the insurance adjuster to collect this evidence. Video can be erased, witnesses can become difficult to locate, and vehicles may be repaired shortly after the accident. An attorney can act quickly to preserve evidence and challenge an inaccurate version of how the collision occurred.
Common Causes of Sideswipe Accidents
Unsafe Lane Changes
A driver may begin changing lanes without making sure the neighboring lane is clear. These crashes commonly happen when drivers fail to check blind spots, neglect to use a turn signal or attempt to move through congested traffic.
Improper Merging
Sideswipe collisions often occur near highway entrances, lane reductions and construction zones. A merging driver must pay attention to surrounding traffic and enter only when the movement can be completed safely.
Distracted Driving
A driver looking at a phone, adjusting a navigation system or reaching for something inside the vehicle may gradually drift out of their lane without realizing it.
Drowsy or Impaired Driving
Fatigue, alcohol, drugs and certain medications can reduce a driver’s ability to maintain a consistent lane position. Repeated drifting or unexplained lane departures may be evidence that the driver was impaired or falling asleep.
Aggressive Driving
Drivers who weave through traffic, make frequent lane changes or attempt to prevent another vehicle from merging can cause a sideswipe collision. Aggressive driving can be particularly dangerous on highways such as I-84, I-91 and I-95.
Wide Turns
Commercial trucks, buses and other large vehicles may need additional space to complete a turn. A driver who turns too widely or fails to account for nearby traffic may strike a vehicle traveling beside them. Learn more about truck accident claims.
Injuries Caused by Sideswipe Collisions
A sideswipe impact can violently push a vehicle sideways or cause the driver to overcorrect. The vehicle may spin, roll over, cross the median or collide with another car or fixed object.
Potential injuries include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Back and spinal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
- Shoulder injuries
- Broken bones
- Knee and leg injuries
- Facial injuries
- Cuts and scarring
- Internal injuries
- Psychological trauma
Some symptoms may not become obvious until hours or days after the crash. Seek medical attention promptly and explain every symptom you are experiencing. Delayed treatment can affect both your health and the insurance company’s evaluation of your claim.
What Compensation Can I Receive for a Sideswipe Car Accident?
Compensation in a Connecticut sideswipe accident claim may include:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospital and surgical expenses
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Future medical care
- Lost wages
- Reduced future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent impairment or disability
- Vehicle damage and other property losses
- Loss of enjoyment of life
The value of the claim depends on factors such as the severity of the injuries, the length of treatment, whether the injuries are permanent, the effect on the person’s employment and the available insurance coverage.
How McCoy & McCoy Can Help
Our attorneys can investigate the collision, preserve available evidence and handle communications with the insurance companies while you focus on your recovery. Depending on the circumstances, we may:
- Obtain the police accident report
- Inspect and photograph the vehicle damage
- Search for traffic, surveillance or dash camera footage
- Interview witnesses
- Review medical records and document your injuries
- Analyze insurance policies and available coverage
- Work with accident reconstruction professionals when needed
- Challenge allegations that you caused or contributed to the crash
- Negotiate for a fair settlement
- Prepare the case for litigation when the insurer refuses to make a reasonable offer
McCoy & McCoy represents people injured in sideswipe accidents throughout Connecticut, including Hartford, New Haven, Torrington and surrounding communities. Contact us for a free consultation. There are no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Why Choose McCoy & McCoy?
Over 50 Years of Serving Connecticut Injury Victims
Our firm has been helping injured individuals and families throughout Connecticut since 1960. We have decades of experience handling injury claims and understand the challenges accident victims face.
Recognized and Respected in the Legal Community
Our attorneys have earned recognition from some of the most respected organizations in the legal profession for their dedication to personal injury law and commitment to achieving results for clients.
Our accolades include:
- Recognition in Best Lawyers in America
- Included in Best Law Firms rankings
- Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer (Attorney Frank McCoy)
- Super Lawyers and Super Lawyers Rising Stars selections
- Members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- Members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- AVVO Highly Rated Attorney Profiles
- Decades of recognition for excellence in personal injury litigation
Trial-Ready Advocacy
Attorney Frank McCoy is Board Certified in Civil Trial Law by the NBTA. This rigorous credential is held by less than 0.5% of all Connecticut lawyers, signaling the highest level of courtroom expertise. Insurance companies know which law firms settle for the first offer and which law firms – like ours – have the credentials to take a case to trial. Our courtroom reputation gives our clients a level of leverage that most firms simply cannot provide.
The “Insurance Insider” Edge
We know their playbook. Attorney Brian Parrott previously worked as an insurance adjuster, so he knows exactly how they evaluate claims and minimize payouts, giving our firm a unique advantage.
Proven Results
Our attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for injured clients throughout Connecticut. We know how to build strong cases, negotiate effectively with insurance companies, and pursue maximum compensation when litigation becomes necessary. Because the insurance companies know our record, they are forced to take your case seriously from day one. See our case results.
Limited Caseload & Direct Attorney Access
When you hire McCoy & McCoy, you will have direct access to the attorney handling your case. Unlike high-volume firms that handle hundreds of cases at a time, we intentionally limit the number of cases we accept. This allows us to devote more time, attention, and resources to every client we represent.
No Fees Unless We Win
After an accident, the last thing you should have to worry about is how you will afford an attorney. Your focus should be on recovering from your injuries and taking care of yourself and your family – not paying legal fees.
At McCoy & McCoy, we offer free legal consultations to discuss your case and answer your questions. If we agree to represent you, you do not pay any upfront costs, retainers, or hourly fees. We handle your case on a contingency fee basis, meaning our fee is paid only if we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.
Under Connecticut law, contingency fees in personal injury cases are regulated by statute and are based on a percentage of the recovery obtained. If there is no recovery, you do not owe us an attorney’s fee.
We believe every injury victim should have access to experienced legal representation regardless of their financial situation. Our goal is to make the legal process as stress-free as possible so you can focus on your recovery while we focus on your case.
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Our Clients’ Success Is Our Success
See what past clients have to say about working with McCoy & McCoy – real stories from people we’ve helped through some of life’s toughest moments. Read more on our testimonials page.
“They have been a blessing from day one.”
I highly recommend McCoy & McCoy for anyone who had to unfortunately experience any sort of accident. After my car accident, I was so lost and confused on what to do next. After some research, I stumbled on McCoy & McCoy, and immediately called them. They have been a blessing from day one! They have been nothing but helpful. I cannot thank McCoy & McCoy enough for helping me during such a tough time in my life!
— Valerie, Previous Client
“I’m beyond happy with the outcome.”
I can’t thank Attorney Parrott and Jessica enough for their outstanding service after my car accident while I was 8 months pregnant. They were incredibly kind, patient, and knowledgeable, guiding me through every step of the process with clear explanations. Their professionalism and dedication made a stressful situation much easier, and I’m beyond happy with the outcome. I would absolutely recommend them to anyone in need of a reliable and compassionate attorney!
— Y Colon, Previous Client
“I can’t imagine a better team to have on your side.”
Although no one wants to be in the situation of having to hire a personal injury attorney, working with McCoy & McCoy on my car accident case has been absolute pleasure. Their staff exhibited unparalleled kindness and professionalism. They guided me through the whole process, helped me through every step of the medical care I needed, and kept me informed along the way. They seem to really care about their clients, and I can’t imagine a better team to have on your side. Highly recommended!
— Mike P, Previous Client
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