Sideswipe Car Accident Attorneys in Burlington, VT 

Sideswipe accidents can happen in a split second, and when they do, they can turn your day—and your life—upside down. One moment, you’re driving along I-89 or navigating downtown Burlington, and the next, another car scrapes into yours, leaving you shaken and wondering what to do next. 

We know this can be a stressful, even overwhelming experience. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to go through it alone. At Horn Wright, LLP, our car crash lawyers got your back. Our team understands how difficult these situations can be, and we’re here to take the weight off your shoulders. From helping you figure out what happened to fighting for the compensation you deserve; we’re in your corner. 

What are Sideswipe Accidents in Vermont? 

So, what exactly is a sideswipe accident? It’s when two vehicles traveling in the same or adjacent lanes collide side-to-side. Often, it’s because one driver didn’t check their blind spot, drifted out of their lane, or made an unsafe lane change. 

In Burlington, we see these accidents all the time on roads like Main Street or in heavy traffic near the University of Vermont. Tight spaces, distracted drivers, and Vermont’s unpredictable weather can all contribute to the problem. As one of Vermont’s best law firms we see these same factors cause crashes time and again. 

It might sound like a minor incident—after all, it’s not a head-on crash—but sideswipes can cause major damage. Cars can spin out of control, drivers can lose stability, and injuries can be much worse than they first appear. 

What Injuries are Seen Most After a Sideswipe Car Accident? 

Let’s talk about injuries. Even in what seems like a “small” accident, the impact can leave you hurting in ways you didn’t expect. 

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries. It happens when your head snaps forward and back, straining your neck muscles. But that’s not all—soft tissue injuries, broken bones, concussions, and even spinal cord injuries can result from a sideswipe. 

Here’s the tricky part: some injuries don’t show up right away. You might walk away thinking you’re fine, only to feel sore or dizzy hours later. That’s why we always tell clients, “Don’t wait—get checked out by a doctor.” It’s better to catch injuries early, so you can start healing and get the documentation you need for your claim. 

Who’s to Blame in a Vermont Sideswipe Car Accident? 

One of the most frustrating parts of a sideswipe accident is figuring out who’s at fault. After all, the other driver might deny they did anything wrong, leaving you to prove your side of the story and dealing with Vermont's comparative negligence statute.

Here’s how fault is typically determined: 

• Improper Lane Changes: Vermont law says drivers must signal and check their surroundings before switching lanes. If the other driver merged recklessly, they’re likely at fault. 
• Right-of-Way Violations: Maybe they didn’t yield when merging onto I-89 or tried to squeeze into a space they had no business entering. That’s on them, and a violation of 23 V.S.A. § 1048 under Vermont law.
• Distracted Driving: If they were texting, eating, or just not paying attention, their negligence could be the cause. 

Police reports, dashcam footage, and witness statements can paint a clear picture of what happened. And don’t worry—our legal team knows how to gather and analyze that evidence, so you don’t have to stress about it. 

Do You Need to Report a Sideswipe Accident in Burlington, VT? 

Yes, in most cases. Vermont law requires you to report an accident if there’s any injury, significant property damage, or if fault is in question. 

Here’s how it works in Burlington: 

If you’re on a city street, you’ll contact the Burlington Police Department. 

If the accident happened on I-89 or another highway, the Vermont State Police usually handle it. 

Even if you’re not legally required to report the accident, filing one is often a smart move. An official report can help back up your claim and protect you if the other driver changes their story later. 

What Evidence Proves Fault in Sideswipe Car Accidents? 

You might be thinking, “What kind of evidence do I even need?” The truth is, the more you have, the better. Here’s what we recommend: 

Photographs: Snap photos of the damage to your car, the other vehicle, and the scene. Include skid marks, road signs, and anything else that might show what happened. 

Dashcam Footage: If you’ve got a dashcam, check the footage—it can be a game-changer. 

Eyewitness Testimony: If someone saw the accident, get their name and contact info. An unbiased account can go a long way. 

We know this might feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already shaken up. That’s why we’re here—to help you gather what you need and make sense of it all. 

What Steps Should You Take Following a Sideswipe Car Accident? 

When you’re in an accident, it’s hard to think clearly. That’s why we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you stay on track: 

Ensure Safety. First things first—move to a safe spot if you can. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. 

Call the Police. Even with minor damage, a police report can be a must-have piece of evidence. 

Document Everything. Take photos, write down details, and get the other driver’s information. Don’t forget to jot down the time, location, and any weather conditions. 

Get Medical Attention. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor. Injuries like whiplash or concussions often show up later. 

Reach Out to Us. This is where we come in. We’ll help you figure out your next steps, so you can focus on recovering while we handle the details. 

Getting Compensated as a Sideswipe Car Accident Victim 

After a sideswipe accident, you’re probably wondering, “What can I actually get compensated for?” The answer depends on your situation, but here are some common types of damages: 

• Medical Bills: From doctor's visits to long-term therapy, we’ll fight to make sure those costs are covered. 
• Lost Wages: If you’ve missed work—or can’t return due to your injuries—you shouldn’t have to shoulder that financial burden. 
• Pain and Suffering: It’s not just about the bills. You deserve compensation for how the accident has affected your life emotionally and physically. 

We’ll dig into every detail of your case to make sure you get what you’re entitled to. 

Horn Wright, LLP, Fights for You 

Let’s face it: dealing with insurance companies and legal paperwork is the last thing you want to do after an accident. That’s where we come in. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, our team of personal injury attorneys are more than just attorneys—we’re your advocates. We’ll handle the hard stuff so you can focus on what really matters: getting your life back on track. Whether it’s gathering evidence, negotiating with insurers, or taking your case to court, we’ve got your back every step of the way. 

Contact Horn Wright, LLP today at (802) 328-9098. Together, we’ll work to get you the compensation—and the peace of mind—you deserve.