That said, even when most motorists drive defensively, carelessness or negligence on the part of others can still cause significant injuries and wrongful deaths in car accidents, which can occur in the blink of an eye.
Moreover, a T-bone or side-impact collision is roughly four times as likely to cause a serious head injury than any other kind of crash configuration.
T-bone automobile accident victims often have life-changing injuries in Texas, typically requiring many hospitalizations and surgery. T-bone crashes increase the likelihood of serious injury or death.
Accident victims and their families who are seeking justice from insurance companies often hire seasoned Houston auto accident attorneys to advocate on their behalf. An attorney familiar with T-bone accidents in Texas will know how to prove blame in these cases and advocate effectively for their clients.
Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents
According to research conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board, distracted driving accounts for the lion’s share of these incidents. T-bone accidents, also called broadside crashes and side-impact collisions, occur when one car slams into the side of another, often at an intersection. Most crash configurations, when seen from above, resemble the letter “T” and are generally caused by:
- Running red lights
- Inattentive driving
- Making a turn while the roadway is partially obscured
- Aggression when driving (road rage)
- General disregard for the rules of the road
- Speeding or misjudging the distance between two vehicles
Liability in Texas T-Bone Collisions
In Texas, determining liability in a T-bone accident requires a thorough investigation of the circumstances leading up to the crash. Because these collisions often occur at intersections, traffic signals, right-of-way laws, and witness statements play a crucial role in establishing fault.
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system, which means that if an injured party is found to be 51% or more at fault, they are barred from recovering compensation. However, if they are less than 51% at fault, they may recover damages, with their compensation reduced by their percentage of fault.
Proving liability in a T-bone accident typically involves evidence such as:
- Traffic camera footage or dashcam recordings
- Eyewitness testimony
- Police accident reports
- Skid marks and vehicle damage to determine the angle and force of impact
- Cell phone records to establish if distracted driving was a factor
When a negligent driver is responsible for a broadside collision, their insurance company is typically liable for covering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages suffered by the victim. However, insurance companies often attempt to downplay claims or shift blame onto the injured party to reduce their payout.
Seeking Compensation After a T-Bone Crash
Because of the severe nature of side-impact collisions, victims may face overwhelming medical expenses, long-term rehabilitation, and even permanent disabilities. An experienced Houston car accident attorney can help victims:
- Gather critical evidence to prove liability
- Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement
- File a personal injury lawsuit if necessary
- Secure compensation for medical bills, lost income, and non-economic damages such as emotional distress
If you or a loved one has been injured in a T-bone accident, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A skilled personal injury attorney can protect your rights and work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve.