T-bone accidents take place when a driver hits a vehicle on the side- either the passenger or the driver’s side. The accidents are called T-bone because one car is moving straight while another hits it from the side. T-bone accidents take place when one vehicle fails to yield right of way as required under the traffic rules. T-bone accidents, also called impact accidents, can lead to serious injuries. This is because the sides of cars offer little protection against the force of an impact. If you have suffered a T-bone accident, read on to learn about its effects and how a lawyer can help you.
Effects of a T-bone Accident
During a T-bone accident, the impact by the striking vehicle causes the other vehicle’s side to cave in. The components of the affected vehicle and the striking car both occupy the compartment space of the car and can cause serious injuries to the driver or passenger involved in the accident. Although many new model cars have curtain airbags for the sides of the vehicle, these accidents normally result in traumatic brain and head injuries because the passenger or driver’s head will hit the car window. Other injuries that result from these kinds of collisions include lung injuries, rib fractures, injuries to body organs, and facial injuries.
T-bone accidents are categorized as minor, moderate, and severe depending on the level of intrusion into the inside space of the impacted vehicle. In cases where the level of intrusion is 4 inches or lower, the accident is classified as minor. In cases where the level of intrusion ranges between 4 to 6 inches, the accident is classified as moderate. A severe T-bone accident is one in which the level of intrusion is 6 inches and over. In severe collision, it is common to see roof buckling in the impacted vehicle.
Proving Liability in a T-bone Accident
T- bone crashes usually result from the careless behavior of the at-fault driver. T-bone accidents may be caused by speeding, distraction, or failing to follow the traffic signs. The main premise for suing a person for a T-bone crash is negligence. Motorists are required to exercise reasonable care when driving. To hold a driver liable under the concept of negligence, your lawyer will help you prove that the at-fault driver (defendant):
- Owed you a duty of care
- Breached duty of care
- Failed to exercise reasonable care resulting in your injuries
In some cases, it is not easy to determine that the other driver caused the accident. The at-fault driver may try to dispute your claim. The measures you should take to ensure you are able to prove your case include:
- Call your lawyer- for defense and to gather evidence
- Contact the police
- Take pictures of the scene of the accident including sustained injuries and vehicle damages
- Jot down information from the witnesses who were present when the accident occurred
One of the common complications in T-bone accidents is when the vehicles involved have defective parts. The other driver may run a red light because of failing brakes. In such a situation, is it the manufacturer’s fault or the driver’s fault for failing to take their vehicle for maintenance? Perhaps you sustained serious injuries because the side impact air bags never deployed or the seatbelt was damaged. In such cases, your lawyer will advice you whether it is the repair shop, or manufacturer who should share some liability for the accident.
Seeking Compensation
The amount of compensation you are eligible to get for a T-bone collision depends on several factors. Your lawyer will help you seek a fair compensation under all of these scenarios. If you have a no-fault insurance cover, the insurance provider will cater for your injuries. However, if you have significant injuries, your lawyer can help you make a personal injury claim to recover damages such as property damage, medical bills, and pain and suffering. If the accident resulted in the death of a loved one, you can recover damages under a claim of wrongful death. In such claims, you are able to recover your deceased relative’s burial bills, medical expenses, and for the loss of companionship.
If you or are loved one has been a victim of a T-bone accident, the best way to ensure you are sufficiently compensated is by hiring a lawyer. A lawyer will help you navigate the rigorous process of proving the fault of the other driver and seeking compensation that reflects your injuries or the amount of damage caused.
Need legal help? Our Los Angeles car accident attorneys and Los Angeles personal injury lawyers are available to help whenever, and wherever, you need it.
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