Determining T-Bone Accident Fault in California

California has some of the busiest streets and highways in the country, so it is no surprise that it also tops the list of states with the most accidents annually.

One of the most common types of accidents involves the front of a vehicle striking the side of another.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a T-bone accident, you may be eligible for compensation. A reliable car accident attorney in California can help you determine the T-bone accident’s fault and pursue your case.

At The JLF Firm, we are a team of highly motivated and award-winning car accident attorneys committed to helping injury victims get justice. Our far-reaching experience and knowledge in handling cases like yours means we will fight relentlessly on your behalf.

What is a T-Bone Collision?

A T-bone collision occurs when one vehicle strikes the side of another. When this happens, the front end of the first vehicle hits the side of the second vehicle. As a result, the two cars form a T shape at the point of impact, causing serious damage to both vehicles.

The severity of the resulting bodily injuries and property damage depends largely upon how much force was applied by the initial impact.

Scenarios Where/When T-Bone Accidents Happen

Unlike most other accidents, T-bone crashes often occur in specific situations. Here is a closer look:

• At the intersection, when one driver disregards the red light or stop sign. Here, the first vehicle’s driver does not yield the right of way to the driver of the second vehicle already crossing the intersection.
• On the road where there is a blind spot. For example, a T-bone accident can happen when a car swerves from a truck’s side blind spot into the front blind spot. This creates a risk that the truck may clip the car’s rear end, impacting it as a T-bone collision.
• In parking lots with limited visibility due to poor lighting conditions or obstruction by other vehicles.
• Where there is a sudden change in traffic flow, for example, a truck pulls out from a driveway onto a busy street, impacting an oncoming vehicle from the side.
• Where there is a sudden change of direction. Abrupt changes in direction include turning left or right, making U-turns, and changing lanes abruptly. This may lead to a driver getting T-boned in a car accident when they fail to see what is coming up behind them.

Who May Be Responsible and Held Liable in a T-Bone Crash?

Liability for T-bone accident injuries may fall on one driver or be shared among both motorists, depending on the circumstances leading up to the crash. Below is a breakdown:

One driver is responsible

Most T-bone crashes occur when one driver fails to yield the right of way to another motorist. Usually, they are not paying attention to their surroundings and fail to notice the presence of the other vehicle. In these instances, only the negligent driver is held liable for any damages caused by the accident.

For example, in a situation where a driver turns left and the left-turn light is blinking yellow, they should give the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. So if they fail to stop or check traffic, they may be held responsible if they collide with the second driver.

Both drivers are responsible

If both drivers were equally negligent, each would be accountable for their fair share of the resulting damages. Essentially, each driver has to pay closer attention as they approach the intersection. Distraction or carelessness on either side, leading to a T-bone accident, means both drivers will be held partly accountable for their actions.

Receiving Compensation for T-Bone Accident Injuries

T-bone accidents often result in serious injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord damage, brain damage, and even death. These types of injuries require immediate medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation. Therefore, victims of T-bone accidents deserve to receive compensation for all of their expenses related to their injuries.

Here are some avenues through which you can receive compensation for your T-bone accident injuries:

• Medical bills: Medical bills are usually the most expensive part of a T-bone accident victim’s recovery. They include emergency room visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, and prescription drugs.
• Lost wages: Lost wages are also very common after a T-bone accident. You may need time off work to recover from your injuries or undergo rehabilitation. This includes missed days at school or work, reduced productivity, and loss of future earnings.
• Pain and suffering: A T-bone accident victim may experience severe pain and discomfort due to their injuries. Some people suffer chronic pain for months or years after their accident. Others may never fully recover from their injuries. Regardless of how long it takes to heal, you deserve compensation for your pain and suffering.
• Property damage: If your vehicle was damaged during the crash, you might be entitled to compensation for property damage. This includes repairs to your car, rental cars, and other vehicles involved in the collision.
• Wrongful death: If your loved one died in a T-bone accident caused by another person’s negligence, you might be eligible to file a wrongful death claim against them. This lawsuit allows you to seek compensation for the financial losses incurred due to your loved one’s demise.

Injured in a T-Bone Crash in California? Contact The JLF Firm

If you or a loved one has been injured in a T-bone auto accident, contact our law firm immediately. Our team of highly skilled attorneys will help you determine if you have a valid case and what legal options you have available.

In addition, we offer free case evaluations so that we can explain to you your legal rights and options. To schedule yours, please contact us now.

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