Determining fault in a T-bone accident requires examining which driver did not follow traffic laws. Usually, the driver who failed to yield the right of way is responsible. However, each collision has unique factors that might affect fault. This is why working with an experienced car accident attorney who can investigate, gather evidence, and build a strong case is important. They will protect you from liability and demand the compensation you deserve.
Who Is At Fault If a Driver Hits You?
If another driver hits you in a T-bone accident, they are likely at fault. For instance, if the other driver didn’t stop at a red light and collided with your vehicle as you passed legally through an intersection, they would typically be responsible. Similarly, if the other driver was speeding and lost control, hitting your car in the process, they would probably be at fault due to reckless driving.
However, in some situations, the other driver might not be at fault even if they hit you. For example, they might not be responsible if their vehicle had a sudden brake failure that they could not have anticipated or prevented. Another possibility could involve a third driver who cut off the driver who hit you, causing them to swerve unexpectedly and collide with your vehicle.
It’s essential to gather all possible evidence after a T-bone car accident, including photos of the scene, statements from witnesses, and accident reports. These pieces of evidence can help your attorney determine who was at fault and support your car accident claim for compensation.
Who Is At Fault If You Hit the Other Driver?
If you hit someone else’s car in a T-bone accident, the other driver might accuse you of being at fault for the crash. For example, if you failed to yield while turning and collided with a driver who had the right of way, they might say you were responsible. Or you might be at fault if you were texting when you hit the other driver.
There are also cases where you might not be liable, even if you hit another driver. For instance, if the other driver suddenly changed lanes without signaling and you couldn’t avoid hitting them, the fault could lie with them. Another possibility is if the other driver stopped unexpectedly in the middle of an intersection for no apparent reason, and you hit them as you passed through.
Seeking legal representation is crucial if someone accuses you of being at fault in a South Carolina T-bone accident. An attorney can gather evidence to shield you from liability, such as traffic camera footage or witness statements, and provide legal advice on how to proceed.
How Do You Prove Who Is Liable in a T-Bone Crash?
In the aftermath of a T-bone crash, car accident attorneys work to prove liability by collecting and presenting evidence. They typically start by gathering statements from witnesses who saw the collision. These witnesses can often provide helpful details about what happened and who appeared to be at fault. The attorney might also request video footage from traffic or dashboard cameras, which can visually demonstrate both drivers’ actions at the time of the accident.
Additionally, a personal injury attorney might hire accident reconstruction experts who use scientific methods to analyze the crash details. These experts can explain how an accident happened and clarify which driver’s actions likely led to the collision. This comprehensive approach allows lawyers to build strong cases that prove liability for T-bone accidents.
What Are Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents?
Determining the direct cause of the collision is the first step in identifying who is at fault. T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, can result from several different contributing factors. Common causes of these accidents include:
- Ignoring traffic signals – When drivers run red lights or ignore stop signs, they may enter intersections illegally and strike vehicles that have the right of way.
- Failing to yield – T-bone wrecks frequently happen when one driver does not yield at a yield sign, stop sign, or traffic light and collides with a vehicle continuing straight through an intersection.
- Distracted driving – A driver who is texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise not focusing on the road might cause a side-impact crash if they do not notice traffic signals or other drivers.
- Speeding – Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions can prevent a driver from stopping in time at an intersection, causing them to crash into the side of another vehicle.
- Driver impairment – Intoxication from alcohol or drugs can severely impair a driver’s judgment and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of misjudging distances and ignoring traffic signs.
- Vehicle defects – A driver might get into an unavoidable T-bone accident if their vehicle has a critical malfunction due to manufacturing flaws or inadequate maintenance.
What Steps Should You Take to Protect Your Rights in a South Carolina T-Bone Accident?
If you get hurt in a T-bone accident, there are several essential steps you should take to protect your rights and handle the situation effectively. Here’s what you can do:
- Exchange information – Collect the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information. Also, get the names and contact details of any witnesses.
- Document the accident scene – Take photos of both vehicles, visible injuries, and the overall scene. If there are any skid marks, traffic signs, or signals, include those in your pictures, too.
- Seek medical attention – Even if you don’t think you’re injured, see a doctor soon. They can identify invisible injuries and create documentation that might be useful for your claim.
- Keep a record of your expenses – Keep detailed records of crash-related medical treatments and bills. If you miss work during your recovery, document any income losses as well.
- Consult an attorney – Contact a trusted accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can handle the process of preparing your claim and demanding fair compensation while you focus on recovery.
- Be careful on social media – Avoid sharing details about the accident or your injuries online. Other parties could use your posts or comments against you in legal or insurance proceedings.
How Dangerous Is a T-Bone Accident?
T-bone accidents are extremely dangerous, especially for occupants sitting on the side of the vehicle that gets hit. The sides of most cars offer less protection than the front and rear, even in newer vehicles with features like side-curtain airbags. There is also less of a structural barrier to absorb the force of impact from the oncoming vehicle. This limited protection means that same-side occupants can suffer serious injuries even in low-speed T-bone collisions.
This type of crash is also likely to cause significant vehicle damage, leading to expensive repairs or a total loss of the vehicle.
What Are the Most Common Injuries from T-Bone Accidents?
T-bone accidents are particularly dangerous because of the direct impact that occurs when one vehicle strikes the side of another. This type of collision typically results in a wide variety of injuries due to the limited structural protection on the sides of most vehicles. Common examples include:
- Concussions
- Whiplash
- Fractures
- Dislocations
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Abdominal injuries
- Punctured lungs
- Facial and dental injuries
- Eye injuries
- Nerve damage
- Airbag or friction burns
- Psychological trauma, such as PTSD
What Compensation May Be Available for a T-Bone Accident Lawsuit?
If you suffer serious injuries in a T-bone accident, you can file an injury claim to pursue compensation for the financial and personal losses you endure because of the crash. This could include money for:
- Medical expenses – You can be compensated for the costs of any medical treatments you required immediately after the accident, including expenses from hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and emergency care.
- Future medical costs – Any compensation should include your ongoing medical care expenses, such as the costs of rehabilitation, physical therapy, and any future surgeries or medical treatments you may need due to the accident.
- Income losses – The at-fault driver may owe you for any income you lose due to time away from work while you recover from the injuries you sustained in the accident.
- Lost earning potential – Losses in earning capacity if your crash-related injuries prevent you from returning to your former job or impact your ability to earn income in the future may also be covered.
- Pain and suffering – You could receive compensation for the subjective costs of the physical pain and emotional distress you experience as a result of your accident-related injuries.
- Lost quality of life – Changes to your lifestyle and ability to do activities you enjoyed before the accident, such as hobbies, exercise, and social interactions, can be included.
Contact a South Carolina T-Bone Accident Lawyer
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a T-bone accident in South Carolina, the knowledgeable legal team at McKinney, Tucker & Lemel, LLC is here to help. Arrange your initial consultation with us today to learn how we can support you through your recovery. We’re ready to take action on your behalf so you’re free to focus on healing and moving forward.
