T-bone accidents, also referred to as broadside or side-impact collisions, occur when one vehicle crashes into another at a right angle, forming the shape of a ’T.’ Like all crashes, these car accidents usually happen within seconds, but they are often much more traumatic than other types of accidents. Afterwards, victims often suffer from serious physical, emotional, and financial challenges. If you or someone you love has been hurt, you are probably overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. You may be able to file a claim for compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Our Mount Pleasant T-bone accident lawyer can help you do it.
Why are T-Bone Accidents So Dangerous?
Of all the different types of accidents on the roads, T-bone accidents are some of the most severe.
These collisions often happen at intersections, usually because one driver runs a red light or fails to yield. Still, a T-bone accident can happen anywhere, such as when a driver pulls out of a side street or driveway without noticing oncoming traffic.
Vehicles today often do not have reinforced frameworks or crumple zones on the sides of the vehicle. Due to this, a person is very vulnerable when they are struck on the side of their vehicle. In busy intersections and areas that experience high levels of traffic congestion, these types of crashes are all too common. The injuries suffered during them are particularly traumatic and can remain with accident victims for years to come. It is critical to speak to a Mount Pleasant t-bone attorney who can help you claim the compensation you will need in the coming weeks, months, and potentially even years.
Where are T-Bone Accidents Most Common?
A T-bone accident can happen anywhere, but there are some locations where they are more likely. These include:
- Intersections: Most T-bone accidents happen at intersections due to traffic flowing from many directions and the fact that vehicles are always crossing paths. When at an intersection, drivers must stop, yield, and turn, often using stop signs or traffic lights. Due to the fact that there is so much traffic, intersections also create many opportunities for mistakes to occur, such as failing to yield or running a red light.
- Parking lots and driveways: T-bone accidents are also common in driveways and parking lots. This is particularly true as a driver is trying to exit or enter these areas. Cars in parking lots often back out of spaces or move across lanes where visibility is limited. Likewise, drivers who pull onto busy streets may not see oncoming traffic.
- Residential streets: Residential streets are another prime area for T-bone accidents because there are often bushes and parked cars that limit visibility, along with tight turns that can also cause a T-bone accident.
What Causes T-Bone Accidents in Mount Pleasant?
Any negligent or careless act can cause a T-bone accident, but these collisions do have some causes that are more common than others. These include:
- Failing to yield: Failing to yield the right-of-way, particularly in intersections, is the main cause of T-bone accidents.
- Distracted driving: Driver distractions such as texting while driving, eating, adjusting a vehicle’s systems, and rowdy passengers can all cause a motorist to take their focus off the road, which can result in a very serious crash.
- Impaired driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can greatly impair a driver’s judgment and reduce their reaction time, all of which can cause a T-bone accident.
- Improper road conditions: Missing traffic signs, poorly maintained roads, and malfunctioning traffic lights can all cause a T-bone accident, particularly when they are present at intersections. You may be able to file a claim against the government entity responsible for designing or maintaining the road, but these claims involve much shorter timelines and have different procedural rules.
- Defective auto parts: Defective steering systems, brakes, and tires can all cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle and cause an accident. In these cases, the manufacturer of the defective part can be held strictly liable. This means you are not required to show that they were negligent. You must only show that the auto part was defective and that you were hurt as a result.
Common T-Bone Accident Injuries
Again, T-bone accidents are some of the worst to happen on the roads in Mount Pleasant. Due to the very nature of these accidents, the resulting injuries are also some of the most severe. The most common injuries after these types of collisions are as follows:
- Head and neck injuries: A T-bone accident causes a vehicle to move in a side-to-side motion, which can result in whiplash or even traumatic brain injuries such as skull fractures and concussions.
- Spinal cord injuries: The force of a T-bone accident can cause extensive damage to the spinal cord, which can result in chronic pain, limited mobility, and even paralysis.
- Internal injuries: The force of these accidents can cause liver damage, punctured lungs, and injuries to the spleen. Internal bleeding is also common. Any internal injuries suffered during a crash can be life-threatening.
- Psychological injuries: Not all injuries after a T-bone accident are physical. It is not uncommon for accident victims to suffer from anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the weeks, months, and even years after a crash.
Time Limits on T-Bone Accident Claims
Like all car accident cases in Mount Pleasant, T-bone collisions are governed by a time limit known as the statute of limitations.
Under SC Code § 15-3-20, you have just three years from the date of the crash to file a claim. If this time expires and you have not filed your claim, you will likely be barred from receiving any compensation at all, as the insurance companies and the courts will throw your case out. There are some exceptions to the law, but they are very limited. It is critical that you speak to a Mount Pleasant T-bone accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your claim is filed on time.
Our T-Bone Accident Lawyer in Mount Pleasant Can Help You Claim Full Damages
After a T-bone accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other losses. Unfortunately, claiming the total settlement you deserve is never easy. At Rikard & Protopapas, our Mount Pleasant T-bone accident lawyer is here to help. We will conduct a full investigation into your crash to determine how it occurred, collect evidence to prove your case, and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf so you obtain the full and fair damages you are entitled to. Do not go through the process alone. Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule a free review of your case and to get the legal help you need.