Sideswipe accidents may appear minor at first glance, but on busy Texas freeways, they often result in catastrophic harm. The high speeds, heavy traffic, and close spacing of vehicles create conditions where a single unsafe lane change can trigger chain-reaction crashes involving multiple cars and trucks.
Unlike low-speed fender benders, sideswipe collisions on highways frequently lead to rollovers, loss of control, and secondary impacts that place drivers and passengers at severe risk of injury or death.
Common Causes of Lane-Change Crashes
Most sideswipe collisions are preventable. They occur when drivers fail to take the necessary precautions before merging or changing lanes. Understanding the causes helps accident victims recognize why liability often rests on the driver who initiated the unsafe maneuver.
Typical causes of sideswipe accidents include:
Failing to check blind spots before moving into another lane.
Distracted driving, such as using a cell phone or adjusting navigation systems.
Speeding or aggressive driving that forces unsafe merges.
Drowsy or impaired driving that slows reaction times.
Mechanical failures, such as malfunctioning mirrors or signal lights.
When drivers fail to account for the speed and distance of surrounding vehicles, they create sudden hazards that are difficult for others to avoid.
The Injuries Resulting from Freeway Sideswipe Collisions
Because freeway travel involves higher speeds, the injuries from sideswipe collisions are often severe. Victims may experience multiple impacts, including the initial sideswipe and subsequent collisions caused by losing control of their vehicles.
Common injuries include:
Traumatic brain injuries from striking vehicle interiors or being ejected.
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis from rollovers or high-impact crashes.
Broken bones and internal injuries from multiple collision points.
Severe lacerations and burns if a vehicle is pushed into barriers or ignites.
Emotional trauma resulting from sudden, violent accidents
These injuries often require long-term medical care and may prevent victims from returning to work or normal daily activities.
Proving Liability in Texas Sideswipe Cases
Establishing liability in a sideswipe crash can be complex, particularly when multiple vehicles are involved. However, several forms of evidence can support a personal injury claim.
Our attorneys often investigate:
Police reports detailing the collision and witness statements.
Traffic camera or dashcam footage showing unsafe lane changes.
Vehicle damage patterns that reveal the point of impact.
Driver cell phone records to determine distraction.
Toxicology reports if alcohol or drugs were suspected.
By building a comprehensive case, attorneys can demonstrate that the at-fault driver’s negligence directly caused the collision and resulting injuries.
Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable in Houston
Sideswipe collisions on Texas freeways should never be dismissed as “minor accidents.” When they occur at highway speeds, they can leave victims facing catastrophic injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and lasting emotional distress. Holding negligent drivers accountable is essential for both justice and prevention.
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our Houston personal injury attorneys understand the complexities of freeway collisions and the devastating impact they can have on victims and families. We investigate every detail, work with accident experts, and fight to recover the compensation our clients need to rebuild their lives after a catastrophic crash.
Steve Hollingsworth is a seasoned trial attorney with extensive experience across Texas. After beginning his career as a felony prosecutor, Steve went on to represent major insurance companies before focusing on helping individuals injured in car, motorcycle, trucking accidents, and premises liability cases. Founder of his own firm, Steve is committed to providing personalized, client-focused legal representation to ensure justice for those he serves.
View Our Recent Cases
Confidential
Worker killed when he fell from height on a construction site.
CASE SETTLED
$1.3 MILLION
Man broadsided in an automobile accident when a lady ran a red light.
CASE SETTLED
$1.3 MILLION
Pedestrian was struck while walking by rideshare, suffered from multiple fractures.
CASE SETTLED
$882,500
Our client suffered severe arm injuries from a head on collision with a drunk driver.
CASE SETTLED
$715,000
Construction worker shattered his knee when he fell into an unmarked elevator shaft
JURY AWARDED $715,000
$500,000
Our client suffered from a gunshot to the abdomen caused by unsafe handling of firearms.
CASE SETTLED
$500,000
Our client and his family members were rear-ended by an 18-wheeler in Columbus, Texas.
CASE SETTLED
$450,000
Our client was struck by a commercial vehicle, causing severe damages to him and his car.
CASE SETTLED
$450,000
Our client was rear-ended by a negligent tow truck, causing injuries that necessitated a back surgery.
CASE SETTLED
$429,300
Workplace injury at grocery store, our client suffered from severe injuries from a fall.
CASE SETTLED
$360,000
Our client was struck on the driver’s side of the vehicle by a commercial truck, the negligent driver fled the scene after the accident.
CASE SETTLED
$350,000
Our client was rear-ended by another driver, causing damages to her neck, back, shoulders and leg.
CASE SETTLED
$304,341
Our client was rear ended by a negligent driver of a commercial vehicle.
CASE SETTLED
$300,000
Woman injured when a commercial truck sideswiped her.
CASE SETTLED
Confidential
Woman fell on wet floor at Wal-Mart and shattered knee cap.
CASE SETTLED
Confidential
Man injured when he was rear-ended by an oil field services truck.
CASE SETTLED
In Progress
Refinery worker received 3rd degree burns over approximately 30% of her body due to a flash fire at an oil refinery.
In Progress
Testimonials
Awesome Attorney
I was a client of Steve Hollingsworth. I was totally satisfied with his representation of me. He was very helpful in answering all my questions and always kept me updated on the status of my case. I am very happy with the settlement of the case and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for legal advice.
Rossana Former Client
Houston’s Best Consultation!
Steve was just great! Very easy to work with, communicates really well and most importantly sets realistic expectations. He is very straightforward and promptly responds to all your questions. I would definitely recommend Steve and would not hesitate to hire him in the future.
Anonymous Former Client
Very Accommodating and Caring
Steve and his assistant Kristina takes care of all my requests right away. Steve personally calls on issues and keeps me updated on the developments of the case. Got me a great settlement! Would highly recommend!
Mila G. Former Client
Rear End Case
Mr. Hollingsworth was an excellent lawyer in my case. He kept me up to date and informed through the whole process. He was always honest and fought hard in my case. He comes highly recommend.
Anonymous Former Client
Awesome!!!!!
I have no complaints; Steve did a very good job on explaining the details on everything that I was going through with my case. Steve got my case settled in no time, I will sure spread the word about Steve he is a very great lawyer.
Sara Former Client
Review
I liked how Steve explained everything, so I knew what I was getting in to. Steve got me what I deserved in no time. I would recommend him to anyone.
Andrew Former Client
Steven and I attended law school together and I have known him since 2000. He was stellar in representing a close friend with a personal injury matter. I have been very impressed with his communication, dedication and thoroughness in representation.
Pamela V. Attorney from Cypress, TX
Steve is the real deal! He is an extremely invaluable resource on all things Litigation for me as a younger attorney. He is not only great a securing the bigger verdicts, but actually cares about the clients and still sticks by his tried and true method of meeting, in person, with his clients to go over facts .
overall, a solid attorney, with a wealth of knowledge!
Crystal H. Attorney from Houston, TX
Steve and I were colleagues, where we worked on complex personal injury and wrongful death cases. What I observed in the years we worked together is that Steve is not only extremely skillful in his profession, but he is a tireless student of the law, constantly working to perfect the art of practicing law.
He genuinely cares about his clients and their cases and it shows. He has excellent work ethic. He is not only a terrific lawyer but also a great person. As a fellow member of the State Bar of Texas, I would recommend Steve to anyone needing a zealous advocate in a personal injury case.
Vivian E. Attorney from San Antonio, TX
After working with Steve for a couple of years, I found Steve to be an outstanding, aggressive and highly skilled lawyer in the courtroom. His confidence and knowledge of the courtroom and what it takes to succeed there, I believe will ensure his long term prosperity.
Robin T. Attorney from College Station, TX
I had the pleasure of working on a trial with Steven last August. His background as an ADA is clearly evident in the courtroom. Steven’s presentation of the evidence throughout trial is that of a seasoned attorney who has spent many hours in front of a jury.
His opening/closings were excellent, as well as his strategic litigating throughout the trial. Steven is a consummate professional and a pleasure to work with, and watch in the courtroom.
James H. From Miami, FL
When I met Steve, I was a legal assistant at a Plaintiff’s firm and he was working as an attorney for AIG. We connected there and then. Steve is a likable guy and an outstanding trial lawyer. He is charismatic and jurors like him.
He is a Plaintiff’s lawyer now and he has the right skill set to represent injured individuals: he is compassionate, honest, and sincere and will go the extra mile for his clients. I’ve known Steve for almost 8 years now and I’m excited to see his career evolve.
Alice L. Attorney in Houston, TX
Professional and Thorough
I used Steve Hollingsworth for a personal injury case following a car accident. He was very easy to work with and managed my expectations regarding costs, time commitment/duration, filing suit etc. Steve kept me informed during the process and always made sure I understand what everything meant.
My case took about 18 months to resolve, ending in mediation after filing suit and he pushed hard to make sure my best interest was represented and to ensure that I had the best possible (and fair) outcome.
I hope I never have a personal injury claim again but if I do, I would absolutely consult with Steve. He exceeded my expectations and made the process as painless as possible. I would high recommend him.
Jessie Former Client
About Hollingsworth Law Firm
Our aggressive personal injury trial attorneys at the Hollingsworth Law Firm are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve. If you are the victim of an automobile accident, airplane accident, workplace injury or other catastrophic injury, you need legal advice from a personal injury attorney with proven results you can trust. Our dedicated legal team is proud to represent clients across the state of Texas. WE WILL START FIGHTING FOR YOUR RIGHTS TODAY!
Why Rear-End Collisions in Houston’s Stop-and-Go Traffic Often Lead to Serious Neck and Spine Injuries
Comments:
Houston drivers navigate congested Texas highways, construction zones, and urban intersections for countless hours. During rush hour, traffic can shift from high speeds to a complete stop within seconds, creating…
The Rising Threat of SUV-Related Pedestrian Fatalities in Houston’s Urban Areas
Comments:
Over the past decade, pedestrian fatalities have risen sharply across the United States, and Houston is no exception. A key factor behind this increase is the growing popularity of sport…
How Houston’s Urban Sprawl and Long Commutes Drive Up Car Crash Fatalities
Comments:
Houston’s reputation as one of the largest and fastest-growing cities in the United States comes with serious transportation challenges. The city’s rapid expansion, widespread development, and car-dependent infrastructure have created…
