A lane departure accident–also known as a roadway departure crash–occurs when a vehicle unintentionally strays from its designated lane and collides with another vehicle, object, or hazard. These types of accidents can happen on highways, city streets, or rural roads and often result in severe injuries or even fatalities. That’s why our Las Vegas car accident lawyers at ER Injury Attorneys are here with the info you need on what a lane departure accident is, as well as some of the most common causes.
Types of Lane Departure Accidents
Lane departure accidents encompass a range of crash scenarios, depending on the direction and nature of the lane departure. Some of the most common types include:
1. Crossing the Center Line:
When a vehicle veers into oncoming traffic, the consequences can be catastrophic. These head-on collisions are among the deadliest types of crashes due to the combined impact force of the two vehicles.
2. Running Off the Road:
In these instances, a vehicle leaves the roadway entirely, sometimes crashing into fixed objects like trees, utility poles, guardrails, or ditches. Rollover accidents are also common in these situations, especially for taller vehicles.
3. Sideswiping Another Vehicle:
When a car drifts into an adjacent lane, it may sideswipe a neighboring vehicle. While not always fatal, these crashes can still cause serious injuries and lead to multi-vehicle accidents.
4. Striking Fixed Roadside Objects:
A vehicle that departs its lane may hit stationary objects such as curbs, light poles, or construction barriers. These collisions can cause injury to the vehicle’s occupants and significant vehicle damage.
Common Causes of Lane Departure Accidents
Although driver error is the most frequent cause of lane departure crashes, other contributing factors may also be at play. Below are the primary causes:
Driver-Related Factors
Distracted Driving:
Texting, adjusting the radio, eating, or being otherwise distracted can take a driver’s focus off the road and lead to unintended lane changes.
Drowsy Driving:
Fatigue dulls reaction time and decision-making ability, making it easy for drivers to drift out of their lanes without realizing it.
Impaired Driving:
Drugs, alcohol, or even certain prescription medications can impair coordination and judgment, greatly increasing the risk of lane departures.
Speeding:
Excessive speed makes it harder to maintain control, especially on curved roads or in bad weather, increasing the chance of straying from a lane.
Medical Conditions:
Unexpected health issues, like seizures, heart attacks, or fainting spells, can cause a sudden loss of vehicle control.
Overcorrection:
If a driver realizes they are drifting, they may overreact and jerk the steering wheel, causing the vehicle to swerve unpredictably.
Vehicle-Related Issues
Mechanical Failures:
Tire blowouts, brake failures, or power steering problems can all result in unintentional lane changes.
Vehicle Design:
Vehicles with a higher center of gravity–such as trucks and SUVs–are more likely to roll over if they veer off the road or are involved in an impact.
Road and Environmental Conditions
Poor Road Design or Maintenance:
Narrow lanes, faded lane markings, or minimal shoulders can create confusion and increase the risk of a lane departure.
Adverse Weather:
Rain, snow, fog, or ice can obscure road markings and make it difficult to maintain lane position.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who is typically at fault in a lane departure accident?
A: The driver who left their lane is usually found at fault, especially if the departure was due to distraction, impairment, or negligence. However, mechanical issues or poor road conditions may shift liability.
Q: What evidence is used to prove fault in a lane departure accident?
A: Dashcam footage, witness statements, police reports, vehicle data, and expert accident reconstruction are commonly used.
Q: What compensation can I receive after a lane departure crash?
A: You may be eligible for medical bills, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
Get in Touch With a Las Vegas Lane Departure Accident Lawyer
The Las Vegas injury lawyers at ER Injury Attorneys are here with the information you need on what a lane departure accident is. We’re also here for you if you’ve been hurt in a lane departure accident through no fault of your own. Our dedicated team of Nevada injury attorneys is ready to help with the claim process and get you the compensation you need.
ER Injury Attorneys is available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can reach us right now by dialing 702-878-7878 or online through LiveChat. You can also fill out this contact form.
ER Injury Attorneys represents accident victims throughout Southern Nevada, including Henderson, Summerlin, Pahrump, Boulder City, Laughlin, and beyond. Get in touch with us today to get the legal advocacy you need.