Determining Fault in a T-Bone Accident

T-bone accidents are named for the “T” shape created when the front or rear of one car impacts the side of another vehicle. These are often violent and destructive crashes because the point of impact is so close to the occupants of the vehicle being struck. When attempting to recover compensation for the damages caused by a T-bone accident, it is essential to determine who was at fault. This decision is made by thoroughly investigating the circumstances of the accident. If you believe you have been wrongly deemed at fault for a T-bone accident, it is time to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer.

How Do T-Bone Accidents Occur?

Typically, vehicles drive parallel to one another on the road, so T-bone accidents are most common at intersections, in areas where people may be backing out (such as parking lots or residential areas with driveways), and in situations where a vehicle spins out of control and ends up in oncoming traffic. Common reasons for T-bone accidents include:

• Distracted driving.
• Failure to notice stop signs or traffic lights.
• Driving while under the influence of alcohol.
• Driving too fast for road or weather conditions.
• Poor design of intersections or parking lots.
• Failure to properly maintain roadways, such as allowing ice build-up at road crossings.
• Vehicle malfunctions, including the loss of braking ability.

Who May Be Held Liable for a T-Bone Accident?

In most car crashes, the driver who impacted the other vehicle with the front of their car is considered at fault for the accident. However, that is not always the case in T-bone accidents, and a careful investigation is often required to determine where fault lies. For instance, one of the drivers may have mistakenly thought they had the right of way at an intersection, or the car that caused the crash may have had a mechanical defect that led to the accident. Fault may lie solely with one driver or be shared between drivers. In some rare situations, the crash may have been caused by the actions of a reckless driver uninvolved in the actual accident. Even local governments might share some responsibility if they did not keep stop signs visible or designed dangerous intersections.

Why Should You Speak to a Lawyer After Your T-Bone Accident?

Determining fault in a T-bone accident can be challenging, but it is critical to the outcome of your settlement. The other party’s insurance company will be strenuously searching for evidence that may indicate you are at fault for the accident. If you’ve been injured in a T-bone accident, you should not give any statements to the insurance company before you’ve consulted with a lawyer. An experienced car accident lawyer will protect your rights and perform a thorough investigation of the crash to gather the evidence needed to prove fault. For a free consultation, call 206-447-1425.