What Driver is Liable in a T-bone Collision?

T-bone collisions, also known as side-impact or broadside crashes, occur when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These car accidents are often severe due to the limited protection offered by the sides of vehicles, and they often result in significant injuries and damages. Determining liability in T-bone collisions can be complex and is influenced by various factors.

Here, we’ll explore the key elements that help establish which driver is liable in a T-bone collision. Please contact a skilled personal injury attorney now to help with all the liability issues that may arise in your car accident case.

Right of Way Violations

The most common cause of T-bone collisions is a failure to yield the right of way. Traffic laws dictate which driver has the right of way in different scenarios. Consider the following:

• Intersections with Traffic Lights: If one driver runs a red light or fails to stop at a stop sign, they are likely at fault for a T-bone accident. Traffic cameras and eyewitness testimonies are extremely helpful in proving liability in these cases.
• Uncontrolled Intersections: At intersections without traffic signals, drivers must yield to vehicles already in the intersection or those coming from the right. Failure to do so can place liability on the driver who did not yield.
• Turning Vehicles: A driver making a left turn across oncoming traffic must yield to vehicles traveling straight through the intersection. If a T-bone collision occurs during this maneuver, the turning driver is often deemed at fault.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding or reckless driving can significantly contribute to T-bone collisions. If one driver is found to be exceeding the speed limit or driving aggressively, they may be held liable for the accident.

Please note that speeding reduces reaction time and increases the force of impact, often exacerbating the severity of a crash.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents, including T-bone collisions.

If a driver is found to be texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other distracting activities at the time of the collision, they can be held responsible for the crash.

Evidence such as phone records and witness statements can be critical in proving distracted driving, and thus, liability for a T-bone accident.

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense and a common cause of accidents.

If either driver in a T-bone collision is impaired at the time of the collision, they are likely to be found at fault.

Police reports, breathalyzer tests, and field sobriety tests are key pieces of evidence in these cases.

Traffic Signal Malfunctions

In some cases, a malfunctioning traffic signal can contribute to a T-bone collision.

When traffic signals are not functioning correctly, it may not be immediately clear who has the right of way, leading to confusion and accidents.

In such instances, liability might be shared between the drivers and the entity responsible for maintaining the traffic signals.

Weather and Road Conditions

Adverse weather conditions and poorly maintained roads can also play a role in T-bone accidents.

While these factors do not absolve drivers of responsibility, they can influence liability.

For example, if a driver fails to adjust their speed in rainy or icy conditions and causes a T-bone collision, they may be held liable for not exercising due caution.

Comparative and Contributory Negligence

In some jurisdictions, the concept of comparative or contributory negligence applies.

This means that if both drivers share some degree of fault, liability may be apportioned accordingly.

For instance, if one driver ran a red light but the other was speeding, both might share liability. The specific rules vary by state, so understanding local laws is crucial.

Questions?

Contact Nelson Injury Law for Help!

If you were injured in an accident, let us shoulder the burden of your case. Your focus should be on healing from your injuries. The skilled injury attorneys at Nelson Injury Law are here to help. Please contact us now for a free consultation.

Eric S. Nelson, owner of Nelson Injury Law, is an experienced trial attorney who will provide you with wise and compassionate legal counsel and representation through each stage of your case. Remember, you pay nothing if we do not win your case.