What Happens If a Crash Occurs on the Center Highway Divider?

Many people choose to drive on the highway because it’s more direct than driving through town. Unfortunately, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safer. A typical highway design includes two lanes for cars traveling in the same direction, divided by a center line. When cars cross over this line and aren’t driving in a designated lane, they can cause terrible accidents and injuries. If this has happened to you, a Biloxi car accident lawyer from Corban Gunn, Attorney at Law can help you. We’ll make sure your voice is heard and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

How Do Center Line Crashes Happen?

We all know when we’re driving that we need to stay in our lane. But sometimes there are situations where people cross the center line unsafely and can potentially cause accidents. The following factors contribute to center line accidents:

• Ignoring Blind Spots. When a driver is preparing to switch lanes or merge, they may forget to check their blind spots and put the vehicle next to them in danger.
• Failure to Signal. Drivers are supposed to use their turn signal before changing lanes. Failing to put on their signal means the drivers around them won’t be able to slow down or give them room.
• Intoxicated Driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs greatly reduces your ability to drive safely. A common indicator of intoxicated driving is inability to stay in one lane.
• Distracted Driving. People who are more preoccupied with texting, messing with the radio, eating, or trying to do anything other than driving are more likely to go out of their lane and cause an accident.
• Fatigued Driving. Exhausted drivers are likely to fall asleep at the wheel and could potentially leave their lane and hit other cars. Truck drivers often face issues with fatigued driving. Truck accidents can cause more serious injuries and damage because of a semi-truck’s size and weight.
• Aggressive Driving. Some people allow road rage to determine how they drive. Aggressive drivers who are angry at others may try to block or cut off a person they believe wronged them. While they’re focusing on getting back at another driver, they may cross the center line and either hit the other car, or cause the other car to run off the road because they were trying to avoid them.

Who Is at Fault in a Center Line Crash?

When you’re operating a motor vehicle, you owe others around you a duty of care to drive safely. This includes staying in your lane and signaling when you plan to turn or switch lanes. A driver that crosses the center line and puts others in danger is failing to meet that duty of care.

If their negligent actions cause an accident and injuries, they can be held liable for the damages. You want to make sure your claim is valid and has evidence that supports your story. Luckily, our car accident lawyers in Biloxi know the components of a successful claim.

What Do You Need for Your Claim?

It’s important that you get in touch with a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident. You will remember most of the details and will be able to give your lawyer your account of the wreck. You then will need to prove that the other driver acted negligently and injured you as a result.

Your attorney will investigate the accident scene and gather any photographic evidence to show the other driver’s negligence. They can also use your medical records as evidence of your injuries and if they’ve kept you from working or will require future treatment as part of your recovery. There may also be police reports of the accident that can help your claim.

There may be a situation where the other driver tries to lay partial blame on you for your injuries. This is why it’s vital to tell your lawyer everything so they can prove that you weren’t at fault and can continue to pursue full compensation.

Let a Biloxi Car Accident Lawyer Help You

Corban Gunn, Attorney at Law will make sure your rights are protected. Negligent drivers need to be held responsible for their actions. Crossing the center line of the road can lead to terrible consequences. If you’re facing medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, or more, we can help you.

Our initial consultation to go over your case is free. Get in touch with us today and explore your options.