Sideswipe Car Accident Attorneys in Albany, NY

Stressed and Overwhelmed after a Collision? We’re Here for You

Side-impact collisions aren’t always dramatic, but they can be just as damaging as any crash. Essentially, they happen when two vehicles traveling side-by-side make contact. Sometimes, it’s just a scrape. Other times, it’s a collision that sends one or both cars spinning out of control.

These accidents are all too common in Albany, where busy roads like Washington Avenue or I-787 mean lots of lane changes and merges. A distracted or impatient driver only has to miss checking their blind spot to cause chaos.

Being in a car accident like this can shake you up. It’s scary, stressful, and leaves you asking, “What do I do now?” We get it. At Horn Wright, LLP, our top Albany attorneys have helped countless people who’ve gone through the same thing.

We know it’s overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to take the legal burden off your shoulders. You focus on healing; we’ll handle the rest.

Why Do Motor Vehicle Crashes Happen? Let’s Get Real

There are a few major reasons why road accidents happen, and most of them involve human error. Let’s be real—driving mistakes happen, but when they lead to an accident, they’re unacceptable.

• Distracted Driving: It’s frustrating how often this happens. Whether they’re texting, messing with their GPS, or daydreaming, a distracted driver can drift into your lane without even noticing.
• Blind Spots: Every vehicle has them but failing to check before switching lanes is just careless. Large trucks, especially, have massive blind spots that make it hard to spot smaller cars.
• Aggressive Driving: Ever been cut off by someone speeding through traffic like they own the road? Drivers weaving in and out of lanes or merging without signaling are prime culprits in auto collisions.
• Albany’s Traffic Hotspots: Areas like the intersections near Pearl Street and exits off I-787 are magnets for sideswipe accidents. The congestion and constant lane changes create the perfect storm for these collisions.

Injured in Traffic Incidents? It’s Worse Than You Think

Even a “minor” road accident can lead to serious injuries. That’s because the impact often comes from the side, where your car offers less protection. You might not feel the pain right away—adrenaline can mask it—but the aftermath can be brutal.

Common injuries include:

• Neck and Back Pain: Whiplash is no joke. It can leave you dealing with stiffness, headaches, and months of physical therapy.
• Broken Bones: The sudden jolt of impact can break arms, legs, or even ribs.
• Head Injuries: If you hit your head during the crash, you could end up with a concussion or worse.
• Emotional Trauma: Don’t underestimate the mental toll. Anxiety about driving or flashbacks from the crash can stick with you long after the physical injuries heal.

If you’re dealing with any of these, you shouldn’t have to do it alone.

Proving Fault in a Vehicle Collision Who’s to Blame?

Figuring out who’s at fault in a sideswipe accident can feel like solving a puzzle—especially when both drivers blame each other. But don’t worry. That’s where we come in.

In New York, comparative negligence laws mean even if you’re partially at fault, you can still recover compensation. The key is proving that the other driver’s actions caused the accident. We’ll dig into:

• Police Reports: These often include critical details about how the accident happened.
• Witness Statements: People who saw what happened can provide valuable, unbiased accounts.
• Dashcam Footage: If you or someone nearby had a dashcam, it could be the smoking gun that proves your case.
• Damage Patterns: The location of the damage to your car tells a story. We’ll make sure it’s heard.

In a Crash? Here’s What You Need to Do Right Now

If you’re in a motor vehicle accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Your mind races, and it’s hard to think clearly. That’s why having a plan is so important.

Here’s what to do:

• Get to Safety: If your car is drivable, pull off to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights to keep yourself visible.
• Call 911: Reporting the accident ensures you get a police report, which is crucial for your case. Plus, it brings medical help if anyone’s injured.
• Document Everything: Use your phone to take photos of the damage, the road, and anything else that seems relevant. You can’t take too many pictures.
• Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, insurance details, and license plate number.
• Talk to Witnesses: If anyone saw the crash, ask for their contact info. Their account could make or break your claim.
• Contact an Attorney: This might feel like a big step but trust us—it’s the right one. The sooner you have legal guidance, the smoother the process will be.

Taking these steps can save you headaches down the line.

Compensation: What’s Fair, and What’s Possible?

After an accident, you’re probably dealing with medical bills, car repairs, and lost wages—not to mention the pain and stress. That’s why seeking compensation is so important.

You could be entitled to:

• Economic Damages: These include things like hospital bills, physical therapy, and any income you’ve lost because of the accident.
• Non-Economic Damages: This covers the stuff that’s harder to put a number on—like your pain, emotional suffering, and the impact on your daily life.

We know money won’t erase what happened, but it can make life easier as you move forward.

We’re Here to Support You Every Step of the Way

At Horn Wright, LLP, we truly understand how a sideswipe accident can throw your life into chaos. The physical pain, emotional toll, and financial stress can feel unbearable. You don’t have to face it alone.

Our compassionate team of personal injury attorneys in Albany can help you rebuild your life after an accident. Let us take on the legal challenges so you can focus on your health and well-being.

From dealing with insurance companies to fighting for every bit of compensation you deserve; we’ll stand by your side at every turn. Call us today. We’re ready to listen, support, and help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.