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Road accidents, youclaim.co.uk

"Sorry mate I didn't see you" accidents

When a driver suffers a traffic accident, and decides to make an RTA claim with us, he or she will first speak to one of our experienced legal advisors.

If they have been adversely affected by the negligence of another motorist, they may be entitled to claim compensation providing the accident was not their fault.

Our team has extensive knowledge of vehicle collision claims and can tell claimants if they have a viable case.

What is a SMIDSY accident?

A large number of road incidents take place because a driver failed to spot another road user. These collisions are commonly referred to as SMIDSYs, due to the phrase: "sorry mate I didn't see you".

SMIDSY research

According to the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), between October 2011 and March 2012, 58% of drivers were cut up by another road user who failed to look properly; 40% of these instances occurred in 30mph areas.

The IAM states failure to look properly is the single most reported factor in road accidents – causing 29% of serious traffic collisions and 21% of fatal crashes.

When behind the wheel, a person should always drive safely and leave enough space between themselves and the vehicle in front. This may allow drivers to take appropriate action if another road user does something unexpected.

Furthermore, to prevent SMIDSY accidents from occurring, the IAM suggests drivers:

  • Be aware of motorcyclists and ensure they have enough road space;

  • Use their mirrors before changing direction;

  • Let motorbikes pass in heavy traffic;

  • Give clear and early signals to allow other road users time to react;

  • Never cut up cyclists or other road users;

  • Pass other road users sensibly and safely;

  • Give cyclists and other riders plenty of room when overtaking; and

  • Always check for bikes before opening car doors.

When behind the wheel, motorists must always stay focused on the road and drive safely to prevent accidents from occurring. If a person suffers personal injury in a vehicle collision, an apology such as "sorry mate" is not acceptable as the sole response to the incident.

Claim compensation with YouClaim

If you have been adversely affected in a traffic accident, you may be entitled to make a car accident claim providing the incident was not your fault.

Every year, our experienced team of legal solicitors help large numbers of motorists receive compensation and treatment for their injuries – and we never charged them a penny.

To find out if you are eligible for an RTA claim, please contact YouClaim on 0800 10 757 95 and if the claim is successful you will receive 100% of any funds awarded.

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