A side impact collision at an intersection can be a serious crash. Often referred to as a T-bone collision, these crashes happen in various traffic situations. Depending on the what happened, either driver could be at fault for the crash that resulted.
It could be blamed on the driver who had been hit broadside, or it could be the fault of the driver that did the broadsiding. When a vehicle is hit broadside, it does not offer the same protection as when a vehicle is hit in the front or back. Frontal or rear collisions offer several feet of metal and protection with bumpers, a trunk or engine, and seats between you and the other vehicle.
When you are hit in the side, you are just protected by a door and window, and sometimes a seat. Thousands are killed in side impact crashes every year across the country.
Proving Fault in a Side Impact Crash
Just like any other crash, you will need to report the accident to police. The police will investigate and make a preliminary determination as to who was at fault for the crash. You will need to exchange insurance details and contact information with the other driver, get contact details for any eyewitnesses, and take photos of the accident scene and damages using your smartphone if you can.
You will need to get medical care right away. Keep copies of any medical records and medical bills. Get written repair estimates for your vehicle as well. Documentation is the key to a successful personal injury claim.
Sometimes there is a traffic signal involved when a side impact crash occurs. If there may be a question regarding the involvement the traffic light in the accident, take note of the accident time. Sometimes these details can be used to check the traffic light’s automated programming.
Checking for Vehicle Defects
Sometimes a side impact collision will reveal any defect in your vehicle. For example, a driver might have run a red light, but it could have been because the brakes failed. It will have to be determined if it was a manufacturer defect, the driver failed to have regular maintenance, or the repair shop messed up during the last visit.
Sometimes an airbag might not deploy properly or a seatbelt broke. These are manufacturer’s issues. When situations like this arise, the manufacturer or repair shop might share some liability for the responsibility of the crash or for the severity of the injuries that resulted.
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been injured in a side impact crash at an intersection, you should consult with a personal injury attorney. With the help of an attorney, you can be compensated for the damages you suffered because of the crash.
Working on a contingency basis, you have nothing to lose when you enlist the help of an accident injury lawyer. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page, so your details can be shared with a local lawyer who will review the details of your case.
