T-bone accidents are some of the more serious motor vehicle collisions that can occur on roads and at intersections in Greenville, SC, resulting in severe injury or even death. If you are involved in a T-bone accident, it’s essential to understand who may be at fault for the incident and what your legal options may be. It’s also important to contact a car accident lawyer in Greenville.
How do T-bone accidents happen and who may be held liable for them? What legal remedies do you have to receive compensation?
What Is a T-Bone Accident?
Also known as a side-impact collision, T-bone accidents occur when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. They can happen at an intersection if one driver fails to yield or runs a red light and hits another vehicle in the side. T-bone crashes can also occur in parking lots or driveways.
T-bone collisions are often severe because the sides of cars tend to provide less protection from a crash than the front and rear. Because the side doors don’t have a frame, they can buckle inward in an impact, potentially leading to severe injuries like broken bones, whiplash, head trauma, and even death.
T-bone accident injuries can be extensive and require expensive medical treatment. In some cases, the victim of a T-bone crash may be unable to work and will suffer from long-term disabilities or have difficulty performing everyday activities. Fortunately, if you have been T-boned in a car accident, you may be able to seek compensation for medical bills and lost wages.
Determining Fault
There are several parties that may be liable for a T-bone accident, depending on the circumstances. They include the following:
1. Another driver
When drivers neglect to yield the right of way when required, ignore traffic signals or signs, and/or disregard road rules, they may be held accountable for any injuries sustained by other motorists and passengers. In some cases, multiple drivers may share liability if both were negligent in some way that contributed to the collision.
2. Vehicle Manufacturer
If the cause of a T-bone accident is determined to be a vehicle defect, such as faulty brakes or tires, then the manufacturer of that vehicle may face liability. If a driver adheres to all traffic laws yet still gets into an accident due to faulty manufacturing or design of the car, they can take legal action against the manufacturer for compensation.
3. Other Parties
In some cases, other parties may face liability for a T-bone accident. This could include:
- The city or state if there was an issue with road design or traffic signage that caused the crash
- A mechanic who installed faulty parts or performed repairs negligently
- Another motorist who was driving recklessly and contributed to the collision
T-bone accident fault can be complicated to determine, so it is essential to speak to an experienced car accident lawyer about the specifics of your case.
Compensation for T-Bone Accident Victims
If you have been T-boned in a car accident, there are several ways to seek compensation for your losses. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim or take legal action against the vehicle manufacturer if defects were found to be at fault for the crash.
Additionally, if the responsible party for your T-bone accident is a government entity, you may be able to file a claim with the state of South Carolina.
A successful lawsuit could lead to compensation for:
- Medical bills: You may be reimbursed for past and future medical expenses, such as hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation costs, and prescription medications.
- Lost income: If you had to take time off work due to your T-bone accident injuries, you might be entitled to receive compensation for lost wages or diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: You may be compensated for physical and mental anguish and the loss of enjoyment of life that can result from a T-bone accident.
It is essential to act quickly after being T-boned in a car accident. South Carolina law allows victims three years from the date of an injury to file a lawsuit.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a T-bone crash, it is best to speak to an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney will:
- Investigate the cause of the crash
- Identify all potentially liable parties
- Determine your rightful compensation
- Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement
- Represent you in court if necessary
An experienced car accident lawyer will be able to review your case, answer any questions you may have and guide you through the legal process. With the proper representation, you can recover the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
Injured in a T-Bone Accident in Greenville? Contact Us
At Upstate Personal Injury Lawyers, LLC, we understand the physical and emotional burden that a T-bone accident can have on you and your family. Our experienced legal team is here to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
We know what it takes to win cases and secure the best possible outcome for our clients. Together, we will fight to ensure that you receive the maximum financial recovery possible.
Let us fight for you! Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
FAQs About T-Bone Accidents
Who determines fault in a T-bone accident?
Fault is typically evaluated by law enforcement, who investigate the scene and use evidence such as skid marks, vehicle damage and witness statements to determine who was at fault. However, if there is any dispute over liability or compensation, victims may need to hire an experienced car accident lawyer to help them with their case.
What if the responsible party does not have insurance?
If a driver who caused your T-bone accident does not have liability insurance, you may be able to pursue compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage. Additionally, you can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver directly with the help of an experienced car accident lawyer.
