After a serious T-Bone accident, it can be challenging to determine how to recover compensation. To recover compensation through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit, you must prove that the at-fault party's negligence caused the accident. T-bone accidents are hazardous because they involve the front of one vehicle colliding with the side of another vehicle. Although T-bone accidents can happen in many different circumstances, they are most common when two vehicles enter an intersection or when a mechanical problem causes a driver to lose control of their vehicle.
How Do T-Bone Accidents Occur?Not confined to intersections, T-Bone accidents can unfold on highways when a driver's control slips, resulting in a collision with the side of another car. They can also transpire in parking lots when a driver backs out and is struck by an approaching vehicle on the side. T-Bone collisions are more likely when drivers disregard the right of way, such as running through a stop sign or red light. A driver's lack of careful attention and failure to yield to oncoming traffic when turning left can also lead to a T-bone accident.
T-Bone accidents are relatively common, but that does not mean they are not dangerous. They are dangerous because of the physical impact that can occur near the occupants. For example, passengers can become seriously injured when a car collides with the side of the vehicle right where they are sitting. Many factors can contribute to causing T-Bone accidents. Deciding who is at fault for the accident requires analyzing many factors. Working with an attorney can help you gather evidence and determine who is at fault.
Who is Potentially Liable for a T-Bone Accident?Several parties may be liable for your injuries if you have been injured in a T-bone accident. People may assume that the other drivers are always at fault, but other third parties could also be at fault.
Drivers Involved in a T-Bone AccidentIn a T-bone collision, the driver of at least one of the other vehicles will likely be found at fault for the accident. Whenever a T-bone accident happens, it means that at least one driver should not have entered the intersection and was driving negligently and in violation of traffic safety laws. Generally, drivers who enter an intersection they should not be in are either speeding, distracted, or impaired by drugs or alcohol.
The Manufacture of the VehicleIn addition to the other driver involved in the accident, the vehicle manufacturer could be liable. For example, Suppose the manufacturer engaged in negligence and a vehicle's brakes are defective. If the driver tries to come to a complete stop at an intersection but cannot because of the faulty brakes, they may swerve and collide with another vehicle, causing a T-bone accident.
In many cases, if the victim can prove that a part of the vehicle was dangerously manufactured, it can be easier to prove liability. Proving a defective part caused an accident usually results in strict liability for the negligent manufacturer. In other words, as long as you are able to prove that they sold a defective vehicle or component, you will be able to prove that they were at fault. An attorney can help you investigate your case, determine which part failed, and prove that the defective part caused your injury.
Negligent EmployersIf the driver who caused the T-bone accident was working for an employer when the accident happened, the victim may be able to hold the employer liable. When employers hire drivers with unsafe driving records, such as reckless driving or DWI charges, and their employee goes on to cause an accident due to negligence, they can be responsible for the damages. This legal theory is called negligent hiring. Employers are responsible for their employees' actions while handling job-related tasks like driving. An experienced attorney will look at all potentially liable parties to determine who is at fault.
Contact a Car Accident AttorneyWhen dealing with the aftermath of a T-Bone accident, reaching out to a seasoned personal injury attorney in North Carolina is essential. Their expertise and guidance can provide the reassurance and support you need during this challenging time.
If you have been injured in a T-bone accident, you are not alone. You could be facing significant medical expenses and a lengthy recovery time during which you cannot return to work. Speaking to an attorney can help you protect your legal rights. Contact the North Carolina car accident attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC, to schedule a complimentary case evaluation.