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What Is a T-Bone Car Accident and How Do They Usually Happen?

Car Accident

A T-bone car accident happens when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another. These side-impact crashes frequently occur at intersections and can cause severe injuries because vehicle doors provide less protection than the front or rear of a car.

After this type of collision, you may face medical expenses and questions about insurance coverage. A proactive auto accident attorney can investigate what happened and help you understand your options during recovery. If you are wondering, “What is a T-bone accident and how do they usually occur?” our team is here to help.

How Do T-Bone Accidents Usually Happen?

Most T-bone auto collisions happen from a driver failing to yield or obey a traffic-control device. Common causes include:

  • Running a red light or stop sign
  •  Turning left across oncoming traffic
  •  Entering an intersection without checking for approaching vehicles
  •  Speeding to beat a changing traffic signal
  •  Driving while distracted, impaired, or fatigued

State law requires a driver turning left to yield to approaching traffic that presents an immediate hazard. Drivers entering a stop or yield intersection must also follow right-of-way rules. Violating these rules may support a finding that a driver acted negligently.

Liability for a T-Bone Collision

When a T-bone car wreck occurs, the driver who entered the intersection unlawfully is often responsible. However, liability is not always determined by which vehicle struck the other. Investigators may review traffic-camera footage and witness statements. Police reports may also be useful, along with photographs showing vehicle damage and roadway conditions.

The state follows a modified comparative-fault system under Florida Statutes § 768.81. Your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. A person found more than 50 percent at fault generally cannot recover damages in a negligence claim.

What You Should Do After a T-Bone Collision

Seek medical care promptly, even if your symptoms seem minor. When a side-impact car crash happens, head injuries and internal trauma are often not immediately apparent. Under Fla Stat § 627.736, initial medical services are required within 14 days of a motor vehicle accident to qualify for Personal Injury Protection benefits.

You should also save your medical records and repair documents. Avoid giving a recorded statement before you understand your rights. A car crash lawyer can review the evidence and help assess losses such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Speak With Us About T-Bone Car Wrecks and How They Typically Occur

A T-bone car accident can leave you uncertain about fault and the insurance process. Rue & Ziffra has more than 50 years of experience helping injured people pursue fair compensation.

We are your local injury attorneys, in your community and on your side. Contact Rue & Ziffra today for a free consultation to discuss T-bone car accidents and how they usually happen.

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