What to Do After a T-Bone Accident

When an accident occurs, your first reaction should be to get help. However, once the dust settles, how do you deal with a t-bone accident, also known as a side impact collision? This type of accident can be deadly. Estimates are that up to 10,000 people die each year as a result of these types of car collisions. If you have been the victim of such a crash, it is critical that you seek out the help of an experienced accident attorney. At Brad Johnson Injury Law, our accident lawyers can manage the entire claims process and guide you step by step.

What Is a T-Bone Collision?

A broadside collision like this occurs when one vehicle smashes into the side of another vehicle, rather than the front or back. This creates a T shape. Most commonly, this happens when someone enters an intersection improperly – usually as a result, two vehicles going in opposite directions collide.
There are various reasons this type of collision occurs. It is always the result of one person failing to yield the right of way to the other party. The question that has to be answered is if someone was negligent and who had the right of way. For example, someone may make an unsafe turn when a light turns yellow or at a stop sign, not recognizing the fact that the other driver is moving. Other people may be making a left turn while another person is going forward. If you run a red light and hit another person, the accident is your fault.

Determining Fault in T-Bone Crashes

One of the biggest problems after a t-bone accident is in regards to fault. When you exit your vehicle, do not to admit any guilt. Simply state what you thought was happening. Perhaps you believe you had a green light. You may believe the other driver was speeding.
Communicate the details of the incident to the police at the scene of the accident. Ultimately, the police officer will use the facts of the case and the evidence on the scene to determine who is at fault.
If you are at fault, your liability insurance may be required to pay for the losses the other driver suffers. If the other party is responsible for the incident, their liability insurance should cover your losses. However, it is the right of all involved to disagree with the incident and for the case to move through detectives and even the court system to determine fault. It is a key advantage to have a car accident attorney in your corner.
If you are at fault for the accident and you have collision insurance, your policy may help cover the losses you face. This may include damage to your physical health and vehicle. Without this type of coverage, you may not have financial protection.

Obtaining Compensation for Your Losses

Filing a claim after a t-bone accident is not simple. You should determine the extent of your losses. This includes any type of monetary amount you lost as a result of the accident. Here are a few key examples that are common after this type of incident.
Medical Bills – Most people have medical bills after a t-bone accident due to the likelihood that they are hurt in the accident. These bills include emergency room costs, as well as long-term needs, such as rehabilitation and therapy. It may also include the costs associated with holistic care such as chiropractor bills. However, only injuries related to the accident are covered.
Lost Wages – Did you miss work because you were in the hospital or recovering? You may have missed work to go to a court hearing as well. Any lost wages due to the accident should be included in your calculation.
Pain and Suffering – This type of accident can create long-term, debilitating conditions. You may be able to claim pain and suffering as well.
Both the driver and passenger in the vehicle can obtain this type of compensation. No matter what occurred, you can file a claim with the involved insurance companies to seek financial support.

Get a Free Consultation From Our Team

As a personal injury lawyer, Brad Johnson Injury Law is here to help you after any accident. For a free consultation with our dedicated car accident attorneys, contact us online or call us at 602-285-6100 today.