By Adam B. Lawler | April 30, 2022

Who Is at Fault In a Car Accident T-Bone?

Who Is at Fault In a Car Accident T-Bone? Fault In a Car Accident T-Bone Car accidents happen quickly but leave you with lasting injuries and mounting expenses. T-bone accidents in particular can result in devastating injuries and difficult claims. It helps to understand what a T-bone accident entails. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer can provide the legal guidance you need.

What Is a T-Bone Car Accident?

T-bone accidents have earned that name because of how the cars look after this type of accident. Usually, one car hits another on the side, resulting in a "T" shape. T-bone accidents are also called side-impact or broadside collisions. A single driver usually causes these accidents, but the details of every accident vary. You need a lawyer to overcome the challenges of determining who contributed to a T-bone accident.

Causes of T-Bone Collisions

T-bone accidents should never happen, as they often represent careless driving. Side-impact accidents commonly occur due to:
  • Running a red light or stop sign
  • Reckless driving
  • Loss of control
  • Speeding
  • Driving irresponsibly during adverse weather
While the circumstances can vary, T-bone accidents most frequently happen at intersections while one driver makes a left turn. No matter the cause, a T-bone accident can result in a traumatic experience and significant injuries.

Who Can Cause a T-Bone Accident?

Typically, people automatically assume the vehicle that collides with the other car is at fault. However, that is not always the case. Either party can be at fault for a T-bone accident. For example, if a car turns left and another car slams into them because they ran a red light, they should be liable. On the other hand, if the car turning left was driving recklessly and didn’t look before turning, they will likely be at fault. In some cases, a third party might be responsible for a T-bone accident. If one of the drivers attempted to stop, but their brakes failed, perhaps you can hold the brake manufacturer or a mechanic liable. A chain of unfortunate events may cause some accidents. For instance, if you must swerve to avoid a collision and cause a side-impact crash, the individual who caused you to react might be responsible for your accident. Deciphering who is liable for a T-bone accident is often one of the most challenging parts of a case. A car accident attorney can investigate to correctly assign fault and get you the compensation you deserve.

Proving Fault In a T-Bone Collision

One of the steps to pursue compensation for your injuries involves establishing the other driver’s negligence. To do so, you must show:
  • The other driver owed you a duty of care
  • Their actions breached this duty of care
  • Their failure to exercise care while driving caused your accident
  • Your accident resulted in losses, tangible or intangible
Establishing negligence can be particularly challenging. However, your car accident lawyer can use specific details and data to prove fault for the collision. This includes:
  • Police reports
  • Witness testimony
  • Photos of videos
  • Vehicle damage
  • Accident reconstruction
A car accident attorney has the skills and resources required to prove fault and work diligently to seek compensation on your behalf.

Damages Available for T-Bone Accidents

After a T-bone accident, you are likely to experience many losses. You can pursue damages to help recover financially. You may recover compensation for:
  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Property damage
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
In the most unfortunate cases, T-bone accidents can take people's lives. In a recent year, side-impact collisions killed 913 people. In these situations, a wrongful death lawsuit can help the victim's family recover compensation for their loss. Determining how much you are entitled to can be tricky. A car accident lawyer can review the details of your case to calculate your damages and help you get the financial compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a T-Bone Collision?

What you do after a T-bone accident can strongly impact your case. It is best to keep specific steps in mind to protect your right to compensation after your collision.

Get Medical Treatment

Whether or not you receive medical care at the accident scene, always follow up with a trip to the emergency room or your primary physician. During an accident, bodies release adrenaline, and adrenaline can mask your injuries. An examination can shed light on your injuries, allowing you to begin medical treatment as soon as possible. Getting a prompt diagnosis helps your health, as you can begin treatment right away, which can prevent complications. You also create a formal record of the injuries you sustained in the crash, which your car accident lawyer can present to insurance companies as proof of your injuries.

Do Not Speak to the Other Driver’s Insurer

After an accident, it is typical for the other driver's insurance company to contact you. They will approach you in a friendly manner, simply asking for your account of what happened. Never speak to them without first consulting a lawyer. The insurance company will try to use your words against you to limit their liability and avoid paying you for your losses. Often, the adjuster will tell you there is no need to hire legal help. Do not believe them, and instead, seek legal guidance right away before you have any more conversations with insurers.

Consult a Car Accident Attorney

As soon as you can, discuss your case with a car accident lawyer. An attorney has the experience and resources to help you handle your claim and seek compensation for your injuries.

A Qualified Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

After suffering injuries in a T-bone collision, a car accident attorney will be your best ally throughout the entire process. You can count on your lawyer to handle your case timely and competently, actively pursuing the fairest possible settlement for your losses. If a T-bone accident injured you, consult an experienced car accident lawyer today.

Adam B. Lawler

Attorney at Law / Partner

Adam Lawler is the founder of Lawler Brown. Adam is a 2004 graduate of Saint Louis University School of Law. Adam worked for a local firm until founding the Lawler Brown in 2009. Adam’s practice areas focus in Personal Injury, Business, Real Estate, Probate/Trust/Estate Administration and general litigation.

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