T-bone accidents are some of the most severe types of car accidents reported on New York roads. The catastrophic nature of a T-bone or side-impact crash can lead to life-threatening and fatal injuries, along with complicated car accident insurance claims. For this reason, it is generally recommended that those involved in these collisions contact car accident attorneys for reviews of their rights and recovery options.
What Is a T-Bone Accident?
A T-bone accident is a collision between the front of one vehicle and the side of another, forming a “T” shape with the two cars. It is also known as a side-impact or broadside collision. The majority of T-bone accidents in New York occur at intersections.
The point of impact in a T-bone accident could be the driver’s side or passenger’s side of the vehicle that is hit. The passenger(s) closest to the point of impact typically suffer the most severe injuries.
Common Injuries From T-Bone Accidents
The dynamics of a T-bone accident often result in severe, catastrophic and fatal injuries. Many of these accidents occur at high speeds, such as when a driver runs a red light and enters an intersection when he or she does not have the right-of-way. Distracted driving and driving under the influence are also common factors involved in T-bone accidents.
For these reasons, injuries can be serious:
- Bone fractures
- Head and brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis (paraplegia, quadriplegia)
- Neck injuries and whiplash
- Internal injuries
- Severe lacerations
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Burn injuries
- Crush injuries
- Fatal injuries
The sides of a vehicle generally have less structure and offer less protection than the front or rear. Unfortunately, this means the forces of a T-bone accident can affect victims more directly – ultimately causing more serious injuries and the potential for long-term damage, permanent disability and death.
Who Is at Fault in a T-Bone Accident in New York?
In New York, the no-fault law means that drivers generally seek financial compensation from their own car insurance providers after a car accident, regardless of fault. If the injuries suffered are serious, however, this gives them the right to file lawsuits against those responsible.
The nature of a T-bone accident means that victims can often bring claims against at-fault drivers. To recover compensation from another driver for a side-impact crash, there must be evidence that the driver is at fault, such as a police report, photographs, video footage, crash reconstruction and witness statements.
Shared fault between both drivers is also a possibility. Under New York’s comparative negligence law, if two or more drivers share fault for an auto accident, their financial compensation will be reduced accordingly.
The Importance of Legal Assistance for T-Bone Accident Victims in New York
T-bone accident claims in New York can be complex, with life-changing injuries, multiple at-fault parties, and the need to prove fault or liability to recover financial damages. In the aftermath of a serious T-bone accident, victims can benefit from consulting with an attorney about their rights and recovery options.
A New York car accident lawyer can investigate the T-bone accident, determine who is responsible and collect compelling evidence to support your injury claim. Then, your attorney can negotiate for maximum compensation by taking over communications with an insurance claims adjuster or bringing your case to trial, if necessary – all while you focus on healing.