Why Are T-Bone Accidents So Dangerous?

Unfortunately, T-bone accidents are among the most dangerous types of collisions. As such, it is essential to understand how these accidents happen and who may be held liable for the injuries that arise. If you or a loved one has been involved in this kind of collision, please continue reading to familiarize yourself with the facts surrounding these crashes and why you need a competent team of Irvine auto accident lawyers to help you through these challenging times.

What Are T-Bone Accidents?

A T-bone accident occurs when one driver’s front end collides with the side of another vehicle, resembling a capital T. These are also called side-impact or broadside collisions. Generally, these occur because one driver did not obey a stop sign or traffic light, or broke other traffic laws.

These accidents most commonly happen at intersections with traffic lights or stop signs, as a distracted, drunk, or otherwise careless driver will not pay attention to the signs before entering the intersection, even though they do not have the right of way. However, they can also happen near driveways and in parking lots.

Why Are These So Dangerous?

The severity of injuries sustained in these collisions will vary based on several factors. These include the size of the vehicles involved, how fast they were traveling, and where the impact occurred. For example, if a large, speeding truck crashes into a small sedan on the driver’s side, the driver will likely experience severe injuries, whereas the injuries would be less severe if a small sedan collided with the passenger side of a truck while slowly traveling through a parking lot. This is because the sides of a vehicle are generally very thin, meaning there is less metal to absorb the shock of the crash as opposed to the front or rear of a car, so the more force behind the collision, the more dangerous it is.

Who Is Generally Liable?

Determining liability for the collision will vary based on who had the right of way at the time of the accident, which can often be a “he said, she said” situation. For example, both drivers may claim they had a green light to evade responsibility. Because it can be challenging to determine who is liable for the injuries, it is in the best interest of drivers to consult with an experienced attorney. They may be able to contact witnesses who can speak to the fact that a driver ran a red light or did not stop at a stop sign. Similarly, they may be able to acquire local security camera footage to assist in the investigation.

If you have been injured because of a negligent, drunk, or distracted driver, understanding your rights is critical. It is imperative to consult with an experienced car accident attorney to help you potentially recover the compensation you need. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.