When you’ve been involved in a T-bone accident, determining fault can be complex and stressful. These side-impact collisions often result in serious injuries and substantial vehicle damage, leaving victims wondering who’s responsible for their mounting expenses. A qualified t-bone accident lawyer can help navigate the complicated liability issues that arise in these dangerous crashes, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

What Exactly is a T-Bone Accident?

A T-bone accident, also called a side-impact or broadside collision, occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These accidents commonly happen at intersections when one driver fails to yield the right of way, runs a red light, or makes an improper turn.

Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents

T-bone collisions typically result from:

1. Running red lights or stop signs
2. Failure to yield right of way
3. Distracted driving
4. Impaired driving
5. Poor weather conditions affecting visibility
6. Reckless driving behaviors
7. Misjudging the speed of oncoming traffic

Determining Fault in T-Bone Collisions

Establishing liability in a T-bone accident requires careful investigation of the circumstances. While it might seem obvious that the driver who crashed into the side of the other vehicle is at fault, liability isn’t always clear-cut. Several factors determine responsibility:

Traffic Signals and Signs

The driver who disobeyed traffic signals typically bears responsibility. If one driver ran a red light or stop sign, they’re generally considered at fault. However, proving this requires evidence such as witness statements, traffic camera footage, or police reports.

Right of Way Laws

Understanding who had the legal right of way is crucial. At four-way stops, the first vehicle to arrive typically has the right of way. At two-way stops, the driver at the stop sign must yield to cross traffic.

Multiple Party Liability

In some cases, multiple parties may share fault:

• Both drivers might share responsibility if both violated traffic laws
• A municipality could be partially liable if malfunctioning traffic lights contributed to the accident
• Vehicle manufacturers might bear responsibility if mechanical failures caused the crash

Comparative Negligence

Many states follow comparative negligence rules, which assign a percentage of fault to each party involved. Your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident.

Why T-Bone Accidents Are Particularly Dangerous

Side-impact collisions pose greater risks than many other accident types:

• Vehicle sides offer less protection than front and rear areas
• The impact point is often close to vehicle occupants
• The striking vehicle’s momentum transfers directly to passengers
• Side airbags aren’t standard in all vehicles, especially older models

This explains why T-bone accidents frequently cause severe injuries including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken ribs, internal injuries, and even fatalities.

Collecting Evidence After a T-Bone Accident

To strengthen your case, gather these crucial forms of evidence:

• Photos of vehicle damage, the accident scene, and visible injuries
• Contact information from witnesses
• The official police report
• Medical records documenting your injuries
• Traffic camera or surveillance footage, if available
• Data from vehicle event data recorders (black boxes)

How a Lawyer Can Help After a T-Bone Collision

After a side-impact accident, an experienced attorney can:

1. Investigate the crash thoroughly
2. Work with accident reconstruction experts
3. Gather and preserve critical evidence
4. Handle communications with insurance companies
5. Calculate the full extent of your damages
6. Negotiate for maximum compensation
7. Represent you in court if a fair settlement isn’t offered

Protecting Your Rights After a T-Bone Accident

To safeguard your legal rights:

• Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor
• Report the accident to police and your insurance company
• Avoid discussing fault or giving recorded statements to insurers
• Document everything related to the accident and your injuries
• Consult with a qualified attorney before accepting any settlement

Contact Bojat Law Group Today

If you’ve been injured in a side-impact collision, don’t face the aftermath alone. Our experienced t-bone accident lawyer team at Bojat Law Group is dedicated to helping victims receive the compensation they deserve. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take, and we’re committed to fighting for your rights every step of the way. Call us today at (818) 877-4878 for a free consultation and let us help you begin your journey to recovery and justice.