Side swipe accidents are among the most misunderstood collisions on Texas roads. These crashes often occur in an instant when two vehicles traveling side by side make unexpected contact. While side swipe accidents may look minor at first, the force involved can strain the neck, back, shoulders, and joints, especially when a driver reacts suddenly to avoid further impact. Unfortunately, insurance companies frequently take advantage of these situations by claiming limited damage or shared fault, which can lead to claim delays or even denials.

Understanding why side swipe accidents happen, how injuries occur, and the steps needed to prevent insurance denial is essential for protecting your health and your legal rights. This is where Accident doctor Dr. Daniel L Pennell and the team at Texas Spine and Joint Rehabilitation provide essential guidance and support.

A side swipe accident usually occurs when two vehicles traveling in the same or opposite direction collide along the sides of their cars. These events often result from:

• Unsafe lane changes

• Distracted driving

• Drivers drifting into adjacent lanes

• Failure to check blind spots

• Merging incorrectly

• Roadway design that encourages close spacing

• Aggressive driving or speeding

Even at a slower speed, the sudden impact can cause a driver to lose control, overcorrect, or strike additional vehicles or barriers. Because the damage sometimes appears limited to the exterior of the car, many people underestimate the force of the collision on the body.

Side swipe accidents can generate significant rotational forces. The body may twist or jerk suddenly as the driver tries to maintain control or avoid a secondary impact. These movements often lead to injuries such as:

• Whiplash and neck sprains

• Shoulder strains from gripping the wheel

• Lower back injuries from sudden twisting

• Hip and knee pain from bracing during impact

• Headaches and concussion symptoms

• Pinched nerves or radiating pain

Accident doctor Dr. Daniel L Pennell at Texas Spine and Joint Rehabilitation specializes in identifying injuries that may not appear immediately after the crash. Early evaluation is important because symptoms from side swipe collisions often develop hours or even days later.

Insurance companies frequently challenge side swipe accidents because they often involve shared fault or limited visible vehicle damage. Some of the most common denial tactics include:

1. Claiming Lack of Injury Because the Damage Appears Minor  - Even a low speed side swipe can create enough force to injure the spine or soft tissues. Insurance companies often use the appearance of the vehicle to argue that the injuries are unrelated or exaggerated.

2. Disputing Which Driver Left Their Lane- Side swipe collisions are notorious for lack of clear evidence. Without witnesses or dash camera footage, insurers may deny responsibility by claiming the other driver drifted first.

3. Delaying Authorization for Medical Care- Some insurance adjusters delay approval, hoping that the injured person will give up or avoid seeking treatment. This can harm both health and the claim itself.

4. Using Gaps in Treatment Against the Accident Victim- if a person waits too long to be examined, the insurance company may argue that the injuries were not caused by the collision.

Because of these challenges, immediate documentation and medical evaluation are essential after any side swipe accident.

Taking the right steps from the beginning can strengthen your case and help ensure you receive proper coverage for your injuries and medical care.

1. Document the Scene Clearly- Take photos of both vehicles, the roadway, skid marks, lane lines, and any debris. These pictures can help prove which driver left their lane.

2. Get Police Involvement- A police report provides official documentation and often includes statements from both drivers. This reduces denial risk significantly.

3. Seek Immediate Medical Evaluation- Accident doctor Dr. Daniel L Pennell at Texas Spine and Joint Rehabilitation can evaluate injuries even if symptoms seem mild. Early diagnosis protects both your health and your claim.

4. Follow Treatment Consistently- Gaps in care are a major reason for claim denials. Consistent treatment demonstrates the seriousness of your injury and supports your case.

5. Keep a Record of Symptoms- Document changes in pain, mobility, sleep quality, and daily function. These notes help strengthen your injury documentation.

6. Use an Attorney When Needed- If liability is disputed or the insurer becomes uncooperative, an attorney can help protect your rights and prevent denial.

Accident doctor Dr. Daniel L Pennell provides comprehensive care for patients injured in side swipe collisions. Texas Spine and Joint Rehabilitation focuses on accurate diagnosis, compassionate treatment, and clear documentation that supports both recovery and insurance requirements.

From rehabilitation therapy to advanced imaging referrals when needed, the goal is to help patients recover comfortably while ensuring their accident related injuries are properly documented.

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