How Common Are T-Bone Accidents?
Vehicle collisions occur in several distinct ways. Head-on crashes, for instance, happen when vehicles collide front-to-front, and rear-end accidents occur when one vehicle strikes another from behind. Among the most dangerous, though, are side-impact collisions, also known as t-bone accidents, wherein one vehicle crashes into another at a perpendicular angle.
What makes t-bone accidents that much more hazardous is the fact that when a vehicle gets hit from the side, there’s not much besides the door and perhaps a side airbag between passengers and the striking vehicle. In front and rear impacts, cars have substantial crumple zones that are designed to absorb such force.
Statistics on T-Bone Accidents in Texas and Nationwide
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) shows that side-impact collisions account for nearly one-quarter of all passenger vehicle fatalities across the U.S. The IIHSs’ data also reveals that in side-impact collisions, even belted occupants face severe risks, with these crashes accounting for more than 5,500 serious injuries and fatalities.
In Texas, intersection-related crashes, which most t-bone accidents apply to, contributed to 32% of all fatal crashes from 2017 to 2021. During that period, these crashes resulted in 4,104 fatalities and 28,480 serious injuries. The damage is worse when a larger vehicle strikes a smaller one, with the driver of the smaller vehicle facing up to 100 times higher risk of fatal injury.
Where Do T-Bone Accidents Occur and Why?
Most t-bone collisions happen at intersections where vehicles cross paths. Other common locations include busy shopping center exits and four-way stops without proper signals.
As for how these car accidents happen, these are the most common causes:
Failure to Yield
At intersections, t-bone accidents often result from drivers failing to yield the right-of-way. Some misinterpret traffic signals, while others misjudge the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles, especially when making left turns.
Running Red Lights
A significant number of t-bone accidents occur when drivers try to beat yellow lights or completely disregard red lights. These behaviors become particularly dangerous during rush hours, when drivers often feel pressured to make it through intersections as quickly as possible.
Distracted Driving
Distractions, such as using your mobile phone, interacting with dashboard displays, taking a bite of food, or even talking to passengers, can all contribute significantly to the risk of being in a t-bone accident. Even a brief moment of inattention while approaching an intersection can lead to a serious collision.
Weather and Road Conditions
Poor visibility, wet roads, and malfunctioning traffic signals can increase the risk of a t-bone accident as well. These conditions make it harder for drivers to accurately judge safe crossing distances and stopping times.
Common Injuries Sustained in T-Bone Accidents
Head and neck trauma are particularly common in t-bone accidents, including traumatic brain injuries and whiplash. Occupants frequently suffer broken bones, spinal injuries, and internal organ damage, with those seated on the impacted side facing the highest risk of serious injury.
How to Prevent T-Bone Accidents
There are several things you can do to help you avoid dangerous side-impact collisions, including the following:
- Pause briefly after the light turns green
- Check cross traffic in both directions
- Watch for vehicles accelerating toward yellow lights
- Stay alert for emergency vehicles
- Eliminate distractions like phones
- Maintain safe following distances
- Be especially cautious in poor weather
- Follow posted speed limits
- Pay attention to blind spots
Above all of these, remember that a moment of caution at intersections can prevent life-altering accidents.
What to Do After a T-Bone Accident
If you've been involved in a t-bone collision, do the following:
Take Immediate Action
First, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If it's safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent secondary collisions, then call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance.
Gather Evidence
Document the accident scene thoroughly by taking photos of the resulting vehicle damage, the intersection, and any relevant traffic signals or signs. Gather contact information from witnesses and exchange insurance details with the other driver, but avoid discussing fault or making statements about the accident.
Get Yourself Checked
It’s important to seek medical attention even if you feel fine initially, as some injuries may not show symptoms immediately. Keep records of all medical visits and treatments.
Seek Legal Representation
Contact your insurance company to report the accident, but avoid giving any recorded statements without legal representation. Given the complex nature of intersection accidents and potential serious injuries, consulting with a car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure proper compensation for your injuries.
FAQ
Is There a Deadline to File Your Side-Impact Collision Injury Claim?
Texas law sets a two-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims after a t-bone accident. Don't delay seeking legal help, as missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation.
How Is Fault Determined Following a T-Bone Accident?
Determining fault in such cases usually involves analyzing traffic signals, vehicle positions, speed calculations, and witness statements. In certain instances, multiple parties may share responsibility.
What Types of Compensation Can I Seek After a T-bone Accident?
After being in a t-bone accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and any other losses you’ve sustained due to the accident.
Contact a Qualified Car Accident Attorney
If you’ve been involved in a t-bone accident, do not hesitate to seek legal help. At Ramsey Law Group, we know how insurance companies may attempt to minimize their liability or shift blame onto you. Get in touch with us as soon as possible, and we’ll help you gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and build a strong case for your fair compensation while you focus on your recovery.