T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact or broadside collisions, are among the most serious and potentially life-altering. Often occurring at intersections, these harrowing crashes can result in devastating injuries and even fatalities.
Below is a brief on these deadly kinds of accidents, shedding light on their causes and what makes them so dangerous.
Common causes of T-bone accidents
T-bone accidents typically happen when one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a T-shape. Several factors contribute to these accidents, including:
- Running red lights or stop signs: Negligent drivers who fail to observe traffic signals put themselves and others at great risk.
- Distracted driving: In an era dominated by smartphones and other gadgets, distracted driving has become a major cause of T-bone accidents. Taking your eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, can have catastrophic consequences.
- Failure to give way: Failure to yield or give the right of way to oncoming traffic, especially at busy intersections, can lead to severe T-bone collisions.
The impact of a high-speed T-bone accident often results in serious injuries, from broken bones and internal injuries to neck and head trauma. This is primarily due to the limited safety features on the side of a vehicle. In addition, victims bear the full brunt of the collision as there is no chassis to absorb some of the impact, unlike in a frontal collision.
The steps to take to protect your interests
After a car accident, taking immediate steps to protect your interests is crucial in securing the compensation you deserve. Seek medical attention, report the incident to the authorities, gather the necessary evidence and document your damages. Most importantly, consider having adequate legal representation to help navigate the complex insurance claims process and protect your interests.