Who’s at Fault in a T-Bone Car Accident?
T-bone car accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, occur when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. These accidents often result in severe injuries due to the limited protection on the sides of most vehicles. Determining who is at fault in a T-bone accident can be complex, as it depends on the circumstances leading up to the crash.
Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents
T-bone collisions typically occur at intersections, where traffic from multiple directions converges. Some of the most common causes include:
- Running a Red Light or Stop Sign: When a driver fails to stop at a red light or stop sign, they may crash into a vehicle legally proceeding through the intersection. The driver who runs the signal or stop sign is usually at fault in these situations.
- Failure to Yield: T-bone accidents can occur when a driver fails to yield the right of way to another vehicle at an intersection. In such cases, the driver who did not follow the traffic laws is often considered at fault.
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who are distracted by texting, eating, or adjusting their GPS may fail to notice traffic signals or other vehicles, leading to a T-bone collision.
- Speeding: A speeding driver may be unable to stop in time to avoid a vehicle crossing their path at an intersection. If speeding played a role in the accident, the speeding driver might bear some responsibility.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI): A driver impaired by alcohol or drugs may have delayed reaction times or impaired judgment, increasing the likelihood of causing a T-bone accident. DUI drivers are typically at fault in accidents they cause.
Determining Fault in T-Bone Accidents
Determining who is at fault in a T-bone accident requires careful investigation of the events leading up to the crash. Key factors that help determine fault include:
- Traffic Laws: Understanding which driver had the right of way is crucial. If one driver violated traffic laws, such as running a red light or failing to yield, they are likely at fault.
- Eyewitness Testimony: Statements from bystanders who saw the accident can provide valuable insight into what happened.
- Surveillance Footage: Video footage from traffic cameras or nearby businesses can help reconstruct the accident and determine fault.
- Police Report: Officers who respond to the scene will usually document their observations in a police report and may assign fault based on their findings.
When Fault is Shared
In some T-bone accidents, both drivers may share fault. For example, if one driver ran a red light, but the other was speeding, both parties might be found partially responsible. In states that follow comparative negligence laws, each driver’s percentage of fault will affect their ability to recover compensation.
For instance, in Washington, a pure comparative negligence state, even if a driver is found 90% at fault, they can still recover 10% of their damages from the other party. However, their compensation will be reduced based on their percentage of fault.
Contact Justice Through Compensation for Help
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident, please know that the law firm of Justice Through Compensation is here to help. Our legal team is skilled, experienced, and passionate in their representation. Let us shoulder the burden of an injury claim or lawsuit while you focus on healing from your injuries. Contact us today for the quality legal help you deserve.