Improper Lane Changes Can Result in Major Auto Accidents By Zucker & Regev, P.C. on June 30, 2017

A series of highways and roadwaysCountless people drive the highways, expressways, and city streets leading into and out of Brooklyn on a daily basis. That means that auto accidents can happen anywhere. When they do, skilled car accident attorneys can help you hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.

Many collisions are the direct result of dangerous or improper lane changes. Let's take a moment to consider what these are and how you can keep yourself safe on the road.

What Is an Improper Lane Change?

An improper lane change refers to instances in which a driver acts in an unsafe manner when changing lanes or merging lanes. This can take many different forms. In essence, a sudden lane change and a failure to exercise caution can be considered an improper lane change.

Failure to Use Signals and Blinkers

Using your blinkers is a simple way to let others around you know that you intend to change lanes or make a turn. It's a simple part of driving, and yet there are many people who neglect to use their turn signals. This can result in many auto accidents that are easily avoidable.

While on the road, always use your blinkers when turning or merging. It's also a good idea to replace bulbs and/or fuses for your blinkers and tail lights regularly just to be safe.

Failure to Check Mirrors and Blind Spots

Before changing lanes, it's always advisable to check your rearview mirror and side mirrors for any motorists or bicyclists nearby. Checking your blind spots is also a good idea since you may not be able to see certain vehicles just behind you and to your side.

When people do not check mirror or blind spots, there's a much higher risk of colliding with other vehicles beside and around them.

Changing Lanes Too Often

Frequent lane changes can be very dangerous, even if you are using blinkers. Darting around multiple other vehicles at high speeds can lead to a number of close calls and near misses. Even if you are in a rush, be sure to stay in a lane and only change lanes when it's safe and practical to do so.

Cutting Across Multiple Lanes Very Quickly

Sometimes as a turn or an exit is coming up, a driver decides to quickly dart across multiple lanes. Cross diagonally over multiple lanes dramatically increases the risk of a serious collision with multiple vehicles.

Rather than put so many people at risk, pay attention to turns and exits as they are coming up so you can get in the correct lane well ahead of time. If you do miss your turn or exit, just take the next one and come back to the turn/exit around to it safely.

Other Causes of Unsafe Lane Changes

In addition to the above examples of improper lane changes, people can also make improper lane changes as a result of the following:

  • Texting while driving
  • Cellphone use while driving
  • Driver distraction
  • Drunk driving
  • Inattentive driving
  • Reckless driving
  • Driver fatigue
  • Speeding

No matter the reason for the dangerous lane change, it is unacceptable to put others at risk. Experienced auto accident attorneys can help hold negligent motorists accountable for these kinds of actions.

Learn More About Auto Accident Litigation

To learn more about your legal options following a serious collision, be sure to contact our team of personal injury attorneys today. Our legal team will fight diligently for you and your legal rights every step of the way.

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