T-Bone Accident 

Also known as a side-impact collision or right angle collision, a T-bone accident is a serious type of car accident that can result in catastrophic injuries or death. Many times, T-bone accidents happen at intersections where one driver may run red lights or stop signs. 

Even at low speeds, T-bone collisions can cause extensive damage to both vehicles and serious injuries. The driver who is hit from the side has no time to react or move out of harm’s way. Oftentimes, they are hit on the drivers side, leading to broken bones and head injuries.

If you or a loved one was injured in a T-bone accident in California, speak with our experienced car accident lawyer. We can help you get the compensation you deserve. 

What Causes a T-Bone Car Accident?

A T-bone accident happens when one vehicle hits the side of another vehicle. These types of car accidents are typically caused by driver negligence. These are some of the most common causes of T-bone accidents in California: 

• Running red lights: If a driver runs a red light at an intersection, they may collide with a vehicle traveling with the right-of-way. Red light running car crashes accounted for 1,109 deaths in 2021. 
• Failure to yield the right-of-way: California Vehicle Code 21800 describes situations in which drivers must yield the right-of-way. Failure to yield at four-way stops or left turns can result in side impact collisions and significant injuries. 
• Distracted driving: While texting while driving is illegal in California, many drivers still do it. Distracted driving is a growing problem on our roads, especially at busy intersections. 
• Impaired driving: Driving under the influence is a major problem on roads and freeways, as many Americans still drive after drinking alcohol or taking drugs, including prescription medication. 
• Reckless and aggressive driving: Reckless behaviors, like excessive speeding, ignoring stop signs, and street racing, may cause a T-bone collision. Higher speed differentials always lead to more severe injuries. 

Who Is At Fault in a T-bone Accident?

Determining fault in a T-bone accident is necessary, as it establishes whether the other motorist is liable for any damages from the crash. In order to file a personal injury claim, the plaintiff (the injured party) must prove the defendant acted negligently and caused the accident. 

Vehicle position is not sufficient enough to name a liable party. Several contributing factors can play a part when determining fault for a T-bone crash. 

For example, one or both drivers may have been speeding at the time of the T-bone collision. In this case, there is shared liability. California’s comparative negligence laws allow both parties to collect compensation even if both parties share partial fault. 

Proving negligence will require an extensive investigation and gathering evidence such as traffic camera footage, eyewitness statements, statements from both parties, skid marks, stop signs or other traffic signals, and the police report. 

Common Injuries in T-Bone Car Accidents 

Vehicle manufacturers have greatly improved vehicle safety over the years. This includes side-impact safety. According to the IIHS, side-impact crashes accounted for 27% of fatalities in the U.S. in 2009. These types of car crashes are especially deadly because the sides of vehicles have little space to absorb energy and shield occupants. While side airbags save lives, they do not protect against all injuries. 

The drivers or passengers who are hit directly can suffer life-threatening injuries from a T-bone car accident, such as:

• Broken bones
• Internal injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Whiplash and other neck injuries
• Spinal cord injuries

Compensation for T-bone Accidents 

Once negligence has been established, it is up to the at-fault party’s insurance company to provide financial compensation to the injured victim. If the victim had any shared responsibility for the crash, their compensation will be reduced accordingly.

T-bone accident victims in California can recover two types of damages in a T-bone accident: economic and non-economic. These reflect the monetary and non-monetary losses suffered by the victim as a result of the injury. They include:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Pain and suffering 
• Property damage
• Lost wages
• Loss of future earning capacity
• Emotional distress
• Disfigurement or disability
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Funeral and burial expenses in the event of a wrongful death

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney 

If you or a loved one was injured in a T-bone accident, you may need legal representation. Daniel Kim is an award-winning Los Angeles personal injury lawyer who has been helping motor vehicle accident victims for many years.

Our law firm specializes in motor vehicle accidents, so we know all the loopholes which help us proceed in a manner to ensure our clients get maximum compensation for their damages.

Once you start dealing with the insurance companies you’ll quickly see how frustrating the legal process can be. Don’t be victimized by the insurance companies when you are at your most vulnerable state. Instead, contact us for real advice and help.

Call our Los Angeles law firm today for a FREE, no obligation consultation and get answers to your questions.