Improper Lane Change Accidents

Changing lanes while driving is a frequent, necessary maneuver that drivers do almost automatically. However, changing lanes improperly, either without looking, without using a turn signal, or in an aggressive manner, can lead to improper lane change accidents and significant injuries to others. Victims injured due to an improper lane change caused by negligence may be entitled compensation by pursuing legal action against those responsible. The Miami car accident attorneys of the Law Offices of Robert Dixon assist victims and families whose loved ones have died in car accidents caused by someone’s carelessness. Mr. Dixon and his staff have the experience and knowledge to help victims navigate their legal journey during such a difficult time. Our firm serves clients in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties, helping those injured throughout South Florida in both personal injury and wrongful death claims arising out of a motor vehicle collision. If you have questions regarding your legal rights and are unsure of what to do in the aftermath of a serious accident, please contact our office today and you can schedule a free consultation to talk with an attorney about your options.

To pass another vehicle and change lanes, drivers must engage in specific actions in order to do so properly and safely. One requirement is use of a turn signal, which unfortunately is all-too-often not used, especially when a driver think there is no other vehicle ‘close enough’ to them. However, if a driver fails to use a signal, especially when changing lanes on a highway, and another driver decides to change into the same lane at the same time, this could lead to an accident. Checking a vehicle’s blind spots, especially when behind the wheel of an SUV, is also an important safety measure to take before changing lanes or merging. Florida also imposes some restrictions on what kind of lane changes and passing of other vehicles is allowed. Most passing on the right is illegal, unless another vehicle is turning left on a two-lane road. “Blind passes,” where a driver can’t fully see any oncoming traffic is also prohibited. Improper lane change accidents can also be caused by drivers who cut off another vehicle by switching lanes too closely while speeding.

When a driver makes an illegal, or otherwise reckless, lane change, others may suffer significant injuries such as broken bones, concussions, paralysis, or even death. Victims who sustain these injuries in a crash may pursue a lawsuit against those responsible. To succeed in these claims, negligence must be proven. Negligence is present when one party, the defendant, breaches their duty to act as a reasonable and prudent person, causing another’s injury, which results in damages to that person. For example, drivers aggressively switching lanes on a highway causing improper lane change accidents can be held liable. Victims who show that negligence is the reason they were hurt may be entitled to damages in the form of past and future medical costs, lost income, loss of earning capacity, and in certain cases, pain and suffering compensation. Seeking legal guidance is important as soon as possible following a car accident, as claims for personal injury must be filed within four years from the time of injury, and wrongful death suits only have a two-year statute of limitations.

Some car accidents are unavoidable, despite all the precautions taken on the road. However, accidents caused by a negligent driver who changes lanes in a dangerous manner can be prevented when exercising the most basic care. When someone fails to take that care, he or she should be held accountable to those harmed as a result. Miami attorney Robert Dixon is dedicated to making sure victims of car accidents receive the compensation they need, and deserve, in order to deal with the financial impact of a serious injury. If you need legal assistance following a collision involving a negligent driver, please contact the Law Offices of Robert Dixon by phone at 877.499.4878 or online to set up a free, no obligation consultation regarding your potential claims.