T-Bone Accidents: Causes, Injuries, and Your Legal Options

T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions occur when the front end of a vehicle strikes the side of another, forming a “T” shape and are one of the most common and dangerous types of car accidents. They usually occur in areas where there are vehicles traveling in multiple directions, like intersections, and are typically the result of driver error, such as a failure to yield the right-of-way or running a red light. Whatever the cause, these kinds of accidents can result in significant injuries and property damage. Fortunately, injured parties who can prove that someone else’s negligence was the cause of their crash are often able to recover compensation for their losses.

The Most Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents 

T-bone accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, but most can be attributed to some sort of driver negligence, like:

• Failing to yield;
• Ignoring traffic signs or signals;
• Driving while distracted;
• Speeding;
• Driving under the influence; and
• Falling asleep at the wheel.

There are other factors, however, that could end up contributing to a t-bone accident and affecting a subsequent legal claim. A malfunctioning traffic signal, for instance, poor road design, inclement weather, or a defective vehicle could all come into play when assigning liability for this type of crash.

Common T-Bone Accident Injuries 

T-bone accidents, like any other type of collision, can result in a wide range of injuries, but the most common include:

• Whiplash, with the sudden impact of the collision causing the head and neck to snap forwards and backwards, straining the ligaments and muscles;
• Head trauma, often caused by striking the side of the head on the window or steering wheel;
• Shoulder injuries, including fractures and dislocations;
• Hip and pelvic injuries;
• Broken ribs;
• Hearing loss; and
• Lacerations from broken glass.

Diagnosing and treating these kinds of injuries can be expensive, which is why it’s so important for accident victims who weren’t at fault for their t-bone crashes, to speak with an attorney about their potential legal options and seeking compensation for their treatment.

Liability for T-Bone Accidents 

Determining who was at fault for a t-bone accident is a critical part of any personal injury claim. These kinds of cases are unique, in that one party (rather than multiple individuals) is typically at fault for the crash. The identity of this person will need to be determined through eyewitness testimony, video recordings, photographs, and police reports. Once liability has been determined, an injured party can seek compensation for his or her losses, which could include medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repair costs.

Call Today for a Free Assessment of Your Car Accident Case 

For help navigating the personal injury process in Florida, please call the experienced Tampa car accident lawyers at Anderson & Anderson today. You can set up a free consultation by calling our office at 813-251-0072 or by reaching out to a member of our dedicated support staff via online message.

Sources: 

forbes.com/advisor/legal/auto-accident/t-bone-accident/

fox13news.com/news/ambulance-carrying-patient-tipped-on-side-during-crash-in-pinellas-park