Changing lanes is something that all drivers do frequently. It may not appear like a dangerous activity initially, but it is when done incorrectly.
Unsafe lane changes put other road users at risk, with the end result being serious accidents. Here are some important points to consider.
What do unsafe lane changes look like?
Unsafe lane changes occur when a driver fails to ensure that it is safe to change lanes. They may:
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Fail to check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes
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Not use turn signals before changing lanes
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Change lanes without ensuring there is enough space
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Weave in and out of traffic erratically
All the actions mentioned above are dangerous and potentially negligent.
Common causes of unsafe lane changes
There are several causes of unsafe lane changes. In some cases, a driver may simply not be paying attention. They may be lost in thought or talking on the cell phone. Sometimes, unsafe lane changes are the result of aggressive driving or impairment. Distracted, angry, or intoxicated drivers are much more likely to make poor decisions like unsafe lane changes.
Accidents associated with unsafe lane changes
Unsafe lane changes can result in near misses or minor accidents. However, they can also cause catastrophic collisions like sideswipe crashes, rear-end crashes, and multi-vehicle pileups. In high-speed scenarios, these accidents can cause severe injuries and even fatalities.
If you have been injured because someone changed lanes unsafely, you may be entitled to personal injury compensation. Seeking legal guidance will give you further insight into your options.