In South Carolina, T-bone accidents are extremely dangerous for motorists and passengers alike.
At Elrod Pope Law Firm, we are familiar with the long-term consequences and severity of T-bone collisions. Our attorneys are committed to providing quality representation to T-bone accident victims in the areas we serve. Contact a Rock Hill car accident attorney at our firm to discuss your eligibility for compensation after a T-bone crash.
What Is a T-Bone Accident?
As the name suggests, a T-bone accident or collision refers to a situation where the front of one automobile strike’s another vehicle’s side, forming something similar to a right angle. The point of impact in such incidents is often T-shaped.
T-bone accidents are dangerous because, unlike a vehicle’s back or front side, the side isn’t designed to absorb much force. Therefore, the driver and passengers become highly susceptible to severe or life-threatening injuries when a car gets stuck at a right angle.
Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents
The most common causes of T-bone accidents include:
A driver’s failure to yield to another
Most state laws require drivers to yield to other road users with the right of way. For instance, in South Carolina, those approaching a crosswalk or an intersection and planning to make a right or left-hand turn while other cars are present must yield the right of way.
Sometimes, drivers fail to observe this fundamental rule. When they do, their chances of “t-boning” other vehicles increase exponentially.
Driving under the influence
Drunk driving causes thousands of deaths in the United States annually. Many more arise from drugged motor vehicle use, involving drivers who’ve used substances like marijuana, amphetamines, and cocaine.
Driving under the influence often leads to collisions, and T-bone accidents are not exempted. That is so because numerous symptoms can undermine an intoxicated driver’s ability to drive safely and make sound judgments, including a slower reaction time, reduced concentration, and impeded hand-eye coordination.
Distracted driving
Countless temptations can surround a driver and take away their attention. For instance, a road user may be inclined to pick up a call or reply to an urgent text message. Also, some people eat, attend to their grooming needs, talk with passengers, or daydream while driving.
Whatever the case, any event or action that causes distractions should be avoided because it increases the likelihood of getting involved in a T-bone accident or any other crash.
Adverse weather conditions
Thunderstorms and other bad weather events can affect vehicles’ abilities to stop effectively when they’re supposed to, sometimes resulting in T-bone collisions.
How Fault is Determined for a T-Bone Accident in South Carolina?
Insurance adjusters and other authorities use various factors to determine fault in a T-bone accident, including, road conditions, traffic signals and vehicle defects. In most cases, a negligent driver is held responsible for a collision and is liable to the other road users and passengers.
A driver may be considered negligent if:
- They owed you, the victim, a duty of care
- They breached the duty of care
- Their actions are responsible for your injuries and damages
Simply put, when a driver negligently speeds through an intersection when they are not supposed to and hits you from the side, chances are high that they will be held at fault and required to compensate you accordingly.
Common Injuries in T-Bone Accidents
The victims of T-bone collisions often report the following injuries:
- Bruises, cuts, and scrapes
- Spinal and back injuries
- Neck injuries, including whiplash
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken limbs, including forearms, hands, and legs
- Strains and sprains
As a victim of a T-bone accident, the severity of your injuries depends on factors like the point of impact and the other vehicle’s speed and size.
Tips for Preventing T-Bone Collisions
Motorists can prevent T-bone collisions by:
- Being extra cautious as they approach sidewalks and intersections
- Yielding to road users with the right-of-way
- Coming to a complete stop as they approach a stop sign
- Obeying stop signs and traffic lights at all times
- Paying extra attention when adverse conditions impair visibility
- Keeping in mind that other drivers may sometimes break traffic rules
The bottom line is all drivers should be careful and respect other road users.
Are You a Victim? We Can Help
After you’ve been involved in a T-bone accident in South Carolina, contact the Elrod Pope Law Firm now. We have a team of experienced accident lawyers serving Rock Hill, Lancaster and Lake Wylie and are ready to offer legal counsel and representation. Our attorneys can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance representatives, and let you focus on recovering your health.
T-Bone Accident Case FAQs
Can a T-bone accident claim be disputed?
Yes. The other driver may dispute your right of way and blame you for the collision. Also, insurers may try to invalidate your claim. But with a skilled car accident lawyer, your chances of getting justice and fighting bias increase exponentially.
Should I contact the other driver’s insurance company after a T-bone accident?
Avoid interacting or negotiating with the other party’s policy provider as much as possible. Leave all these to your attorney.
