T-bone accidents happen when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. They often occur at intersections and can cause devastating injuries. If you’ve been involved in this type of crash, you may be wondering who will be held responsible.
So, who is usually at fault in a T-bone accident? In most cases, the driver who failed to yield the right of way is at fault. However, in some scenarios, liability can be shared.
If you’ve been injured in a T-bone accident, you may be facing costly medical bills and a long recovery. A Kansas City car accident lawyer can help you file a claim and obtain the compensation you deserve.
Who Is Usually At Fault in a T-Bone Accident?
In most cases, the driver who failed to yield the right of way is at fault for a T-bone accident. This often includes drivers who:
- Run a red light or stop sign
- Make an illegal or unsafe turn at an intersection
- Fail to yield when another driver has the right of way
Ultimately, liability depends on the circumstances of the crash. For example, if a driver who technically had the right of way was speeding, they may share liability.
How Is Fault Determined in a T-Bone Accident Case?
In a T-bone accident case, fault is determined by examining the circumstances that led up to the collision. Insurance companies, lawyers, and, in some cases, courts will look at:
- Traffic laws: Did either driver break laws related to yielding, signals, or right of way?
- Driver actions: Was one driver distracted, speeding, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs?
- Road conditions: Poor weather, construction zones, or malfunctioning traffic signals can complicate liability.
- Comparative negligence laws: In some states, both drivers may share fault, which can reduce the amount of compensation a victim can recover.
Contact our Kansas city personal injury lawyers now.
What Evidence Is Crucial in a T-Bone Accident Case?
Strong evidence is essential to proving liability in a T-bone accident case. Some of the most important types of evidence include:
- Police reports: Officers often note which driver they believe caused the accident in traffic crash reports.
- Witness statements: Independent witnesses can confirm which vehicle ran a red light, failed to yield, or was driving recklessly.
- Traffic camera or dashcam footage: Video evidence can clearly show what happened at the time of impact.
- Accident reconstruction: Experts can analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions to recreate the crash.
- Medical records: These can help link your injuries directly to the accident.
Without strong evidence, insurers may try to shift blame onto you, which could lower your settlement.
How Do Insurance Claims Work for T-Bone Accidents?
If you’ve been in a T-bone accident in Kansas City, the way your insurance claim works will depend on whether the crash occurred in Missouri or Kansas:
- Missouri: Since Missouri is an at–fault state, you’ll typically file a claim with the at-fault driver’s liability insurance. If they’re an unlicensed driver, you may turn to your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- Kansas: Since Kansas is a no–fault state, your own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage will pay for your medical bills and lost income up to policy limits, regardless of who caused the accident. If your injuries are severe enough, you may also bring a claim against the at-fault driver.
Since Kansas City straddles states with different legal systems, navigating insurance claims can get complicated fast. A car accident lawyer can help determine which laws apply to your case and handle negotiations with insurers.
What Is the Average Settlement for a T-Bone Accident?
Settlement values for T-bone accidents vary widely. While minor T-bone accidents may settle for tens of thousands of dollars, cases involving life-altering injuries can yield payouts worth six or seven figures. Your settlement’s value will depend on factors such as:
- Injury severity
- Medical expenses and future medical needs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
Working with a lawyer will give you much better odds of securing fair compensation.
Why Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
If you’ve been injured in an accident, the insurance company may try to pressure you to accept a low settlement or even argue that you’re at fault. A lawyer can:
- Investigate the crash and gather critical evidence
- Calculate the full value of your claim
- Handle negotiations with insurers
- Represent you in court (if necessary)
Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents
T-bone crashes often occur in busy intersections or traffic-heavy areas. Common causes include:
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, or using a GPS)
- Drunk or impaired driving
- Speeding through intersections
Common Injuries in T-Bone Accidents
Since side-impact collisions strike where vehicles offer the least protection, the injuries they cause are often serious. Victims may suffer:
- Broken bones
- Head and brain injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Today
T-bone accident cases can be complex, and insurance companies go to great lengths to minimize payouts to injury victims. If you’ve been injured in a T-bone accident, a car accident attorney from Foster Wallace Personal Injury Lawyers can fight for your rights and help you pursue the maximum compensation available.
Schedule a free consultation today to find out how you can hold the driver who injured you accountable.
