Aggressive or Unsafe Lane Changing

Motorists can not only be given a citation for unsafe lane changing; it could also be considered the cause of an accident. Unsafe or aggressive lane changes put others—pedestrians, bicyclists and other vehicles—at serious risk. In the event of a lane change accident, those injured may pursue a legal claim against a negligent driver with help from a Colorado car accident attorney.

What is considered aggressive or unsafe lane changing?

One type of unsafe lane change is making one without looking or without signaling. Others in the vehicle’s path will find it difficult to react when a move such as this is made suddenly.

Similar is making a lane change and then signaling while in the middle of it. It’s important to let others know of an intention to change lanes by signaling in advance to avoid a lane change accident.

It is also unsafe to turn into a lane and suddenly slow down when the flow of traffic was moving at a faster speed. There is the risk of not only a rear end accident but of multiple vehicles crashing.

Sudden changes, even with a signal, can be unsafe. If a vehicle was approaching and the driver cuts in front, it could make braking difficult when the lane change is sudden and unexpected.

Not only are other vehicles at risk from unsafe lane changing; if made at an intersection or in a school zone, pedestrians could be at risk of a lane change accident, too. Those injured by an unsafe driver may speak with a Colorado car accident attorney for help establishing the cause of the accident.

Meanwhile, aggressive lane changes generally stem from a driver who is angry, upset or in a rush. This can include making frequent changes to get around traffic. Or it could be purposefully changing lanes without signaling. Lane changes made with the intention to follow another vehicle closely are extremely unsafe.

The consequences of aggressive or unsafe lane changing include rear end collisions, rollovers and hydroplaning (sliding uncontrollably). Vehicles that lose control could also crash into objects, such as buildings or bridges.

Laws in Colorado Pertaining to Lane Changes

Certain laws apply to bicycles, mopeds, electric scooters and motorcycles when it comes to lane changes. Anyone using these forms of transportation cannot pass another vehicle on the right in the same lane. However, it can be done on the left if it’s safe and the vehicle passing isn’t closer than three feet.

For motorists on roadways that are divided into two or more clearly marked lanes (going the same direction), vehicles must remain within a single lane. When making a lane change, a signal must be used and it can only be done when a prudent distance is available between vehicles.

If for some reason a turn signal can’t be used or doesn’t work, hand signals should be made. These should be done outside the window where others can clearly see the intended move.

Legal Consultation with a Colorado Car Accident Attorney

When there are questions concerning the cause of lane change accidents, it can helpful to seek legal advice. A Colorado car accident attorney can help collect evidence and documentation to bolster a victim’s claim against a negligent driver. If a motorist was cited for making an improper lane change, for example, this could help establish the cause of the crash.

A Colorado car accident attorney can assist accident victims wishing to pursue a claim for damages following a lane change accident. A lawyer can review the circumstances of the negligent driver’s unsafe lane changing and help build and pursue the case.