Side Impact Car Accidents: T-Bone Crash Dangers
Also known as T-bone accidents and broadside collisions, side impact collisions occur when the front of one vehicle collides with the side of another vehicle. The perpendicular strike creates a T-shape, hence one of its names. Side impacts crashes are one of the deadliest kinds of auto accidents.
The Daytona Beach, FL attorneys of Chanfrau & Chanfrau would like to explore the dangers and causes of side impact crashes in greater detail. If you or a loved one has been harmed in such an accident, our law firm can help.
Why Side Impact Collisions Are So Deadly
When a vehicle is struck on its side, there is less of the car’s structure guarding a driver or passenger from the brunt of the impact. This means there is a high risk of catastrophic or fatal injuries during side impact crashes, especially at higher speeds.
While automakers have added side-impact airbags to help protect people from broadside impact, injuries and fatalities are still possible.
Why Do Side Impact Collisions Occur?
Side impact collisions typically occur at intersections given the perpendicular crossing of roads. Here are some potential scenarios:
- A vehicle runs a red light and as a result strikes another vehicle traveling perpendicular to it, or is struck by a vehicle traveling perpendicular to it
- A vehicle darts into an intersection and strikes a vehicle that is stopped but is blocking the intersection
- A distracted driver (texting behind the wheel) is not paying attention to hazard in the intersection and strikes/is struck by another vehicle
- A drunk driver or reckless driver disregards traffic signals or the right of way
It is also possible for malfunctioning traffic lights and bad weather to contribute to a side impact crash.
Side Impact Collision Statistics
According to numbers from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), there were 5,866 fatalities in single-vehicle and multi-vehicle side impact collisions in 2016. These crashes accounted for 25 percent of all auto accident fatalities that year. Side impacts were the second deadliest type of collision, surpassed only by front-end crashes, which accounted for 54 percent of all accident fatalities in 2016.
Holding Negligent Parties Accountable
In any case in which negligence played a role in a collision, it’s of the utmost importance that the negligent party be held accountable. Had the driver not be exhibiting negligence, the accident would not have occurred.
How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
An auto accident lawyer can help you and your loved ones pursue legal action against a negligent driver. They will note evidence in the collision that demonstrates distraction, recklessness, or general negligence that contributed to the crash occurring. Damages will be sought to cover vehicle damage, lost wages, medical bills, and other losses associated with the collision.
While your lawyer handles the legal proceedings, you will have peace of mind moving forward, knowing your case is in good hands.
Contact Chanfrau & Chanfrau
For more information about your legal rights and options, be sure to contact the injury accident lawyers of Chanfrau & Chanfrau. We are here to provide expert legal counsel as well as peace of mind as you seek damages and justice.