Accidents are alarming, yet they still occur daily somewhere in some form. T-bone collisions are one of those types of accidents that are more dangerous than head-on collisions and can be fatal.
Do you know what a T-bone collision is, why we consider it to cause serious injuries and fatalities, and how the best car accident lawyers help you in this situation?
The following sections answer all these questions.
What is a T-Bone Collision?
A T-bone collision, also called a side-impact collision, occurs when the front of one vehicle collides with the side of another, resulting in a T-shape. This is most commonly seen near intersections, although it can happen in other traffic situations.
Studies state that nearly half of collisions at intersections in the United States are T-bone collisions. It can cause major damage to the vehicle’s doors, windows, and passengers. The angle of the collision worsens the force, making the crash more likely to cause major injury or death for the occupants of the car, especially the passenger.
Why Do T-Bone Collisions Lead to Severe Injuries and Fatalities?
T-bone collisions may cause severe injuries and fatalities because of various reasons. The following are a few of them.
Lack of Protection on the Side
Unlike head-on or rear-end collisions, where vehicles are designed with crumple zones to absorb impact and protect people, side-impact collisions have devastating results due to the lack of protection. A vehicle’s side lacks energy-absorbing systems, commonly found in the front or back, such as the engine block or trunk.
Side-impact airbags are more common in modern cars but do not offer the same protection as front airbags. A T-bone accident is likely to have a direct impact on the passenger, potentially resulting in broken bones, head trauma, or internal injuries.
High Speed and Unpredictability
T-bone collisions are common at high speeds, particularly when one car runs a red light or speeds up at an intersection. The speed of impact increases the forces involved in the crash while limiting the time available for the driver or passengers to react.
Also, such events are typically challenging to avoid since drivers may be unable to predict the other vehicle’s movement or speed. The time constraint to prevent a collision raises the risk of severe damage.
Seat Belts and Restraint Systems
Although manufacturers design seat belts for safety, they do not provide adequate crash protection. In certain situations, the force of the impact causes the passenger to collide with the door or windows, resulting in severe injuries. Sometimes, the pressure of the seatbelt can lead to injuries, although they are comparatively minor.
Safety Features and Structural Weaknesses
The vehicle’s safety features have a major role in the accident and the injuries caused. Older cars lack several advanced technologies, making it more difficult to escape from serious harm. Even though modern vehicles have more advanced safety measures like side-curtain airbags, strengthened door frames, and stronger side structures, they offer less protection than front and rear.
Fatalities in T-Bone Collisions
T-bone crashes result in severe injuries and, in some cases, death. When a high-speed crash happens, vital organs such as the heart, lungs, and brain end up in danger.
In severe cases, internal bleeding, traumatic brain injuries, or neck and spine injuries lead to death immediately.
The Role of a Car Accident Lawyer
Given the complexities and severity of T-bone accidents, it’s essential to get legal guidance if you’ve been involved in one. A car accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process, ensuring you are fairly compensated for your injuries and holding negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
Whether it is a mild or severe injury, the financial burden of medical costs, lost wages, and emotional distress can be challenging. A lawyer can assist you in recovering compensation for all of these damages.
Additionally, an attorney can assist with:
- Investigating the cause of the accident and determining the fault
- Communicate with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation
- Representing you in court, if needed, to protect your rights
Conclusion
The unpredictable nature of the crash may lead to disastrous consequences. If you or a loved one has been involved in a T-bone collision, seek legal assistance from an experienced car accident lawyer. The right attorney ensures that justice is served and can get you the compensation required to recover from your injuries.
