T-bone accidents are amongst the most dangerous car accidents, otherwise also known as side-impact or broadside collisions. It is named so due to the vehicle ramming into the other car’s side, forming a “T” shape. T-bone accidents frequently lead to serious injuries and fatalities.
Therefore, it is important to understand how these accidents occur and the legal options available to victims, due to the high chances of injury. The victims can ask for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages with the help of car accident attorneys.
Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents
These accidents occur at intersections. This may be the result of drivers failing to yield or running red lights. The commonest causes of this are distraction while driving, speeding, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Failure to yield: The driver does not give way at a stop sign or at a traffic signal.
- Running red lights or stop signs: Ignoring traffic signals or signs resulting in collision with opposite vehicles.
- Distracted driving: Using phones or other distractions causes drivers to miss critical signals, leading to collisions.
- Reckless or aggressive driving: Aggressive driving like speeding, tailgating, and other forms of driving.
T-bone accidents result in serious injuries compared to other types of crashes. It is a result of the side panels of vehicles not providing adequate protection compared to the front or rear. Therefore, the victims are required to consult car accident attorneys for their legal rights and options.
Injuries Commonly Associated with T-Bone Accidents
Even at lower speeds, side-impact collisions typically cause significant injuries. The force of the crash can result in striking another vehicle and pushing into another traffic lane or flipping. T-bone accident injuries include:
- Head injuries: Head trauma, that includes concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) resulting from the window and door frame close to the driver and passengers caving in.
- Neck and spinal injuries: Whiplash, herniated discs, and spinal cord injuries due to sudden impact and jerking motion.
- Broken bones: Fractures of the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis sustained as a result of the impact crushing the side of the vehicle.
- Internal injuries: The collision can result in internal bleeding or organ damage.
Victims may require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, or even lifelong care, based on the crash’s severity. Compensation for these losses is essential for recovery, and car accident attorneys can help the victims through the legal process.
Proving Fault in T-bone Accidents
It is difficult to determine the fault in a T-bone accident, especially when both drivers claim that the right of way was theirs. A thorough investigation will be required to establish fault and liability. Evidence to help prove fault are:
- Traffic camera footage: Evidence from video recordings of traffic cameras or private surveillance systems.
- Witness testimony: Eyewitnesses account of the accident of any traffic law violation had occurred.
- Police report: Law enforcement officer’s report investigating the accident site.
- Vehicle damage: The extent of damage to the vehicles and location can indicate who was at fault.
It is often challenging for the victim to prove fault, especially if the at-fault driver disputes the facts. Here, assistance from an experienced attorney can help with evidence gathering and a case presentation for compensation.
Legal Options for Victims of T-Bone Accidents
The victims of T-bone accidents are entitled to compensation for the medical expenses, loss of wages, pain and suffering, and other damages incurred. A victim may be required to file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit based on the severity of the injuries and circumstances of the accident. If both parties share the responsibility or are at fault for the crash, it can complicate matters under certain state laws.
In states where contributory negligence rules are in effect, victims could be barred from receiving damages if found to be slightly at fault. In such situations, it is crucial to work with personal injury attorneys specializing in auto accident claims. These lawyers are skilled enough to help navigate the complexities of the legal system and maximize the chances of a successful outcome.
Conclusion
Victims need to act quickly to strengthen their cases as well as protect their rights. Filing lawsuits after the expiry of statutes of limitations will not help in getting any compensation. Many states have imposed a period between two and three years from the date of the accident as a statute of limitations. As these cases are complicated, it is always better to get help from personal injury attorneys specializing in auto accident claims to be successful in filing the claim as well as the claim successfully.
