Who Is at Fault in a T-Bone Car Accident?
If you have ever been the victim of a T-Bone car accident, then you’re probably wondering who is at fault. These types of collisions, also known as side-impact crashes, are often extremely violent and can be caused by either driver. However, it is always the motorist who did not have the right of way that will be at fault.
How Do You Prove Fault in a Side Impact Collision?
A T-Bone accident occurs when one vehicle hits the other in a perpendicular direction. Although it may be obvious to you who caused the accident, proving fault is not always easy.
The law holds that all drivers have a “duty of care” to others on the road. This means a motorist must drive safely and follow traffic laws. A failure to meet the duty of care is considered negligent behavior. The ability to prove the other driver’s negligence or recklessness requires solid evidence of the following:
- The at-fault driver had a “duty of care” to drive safely.
- The driver’s negligence breached this duty.
- This violation directly caused the accident and your injuries.
- You suffered damages as a result (e.g., medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, etc.)
The types of evidence you need to prove your case begins at the scene of the crash. Notify the police so a report can be made. If you physically can, take pictures or video of the location, the positions of the vehicles, damage, and your injuries, as well as exchange contact information with all involved and any witnesses. Seek medical care and speak to an attorney as soon as possible. They can help you determine which parties are liable and have the resources to investigate for you.
What are Common Causes of T-Bone Collisions?
Most of the time, T-bone crashes are caused by negligence. For example:
- Failing to Yield: Failing to yield the right of way when appropriate is a leading cause of T-bone accidents.
- Running a Red Light
- Making a Left-Hand Turn: Drivers fail to properly gauge the speed of oncoming traffic when making a left turn.
- Making a Right-Hand Turn: Drivers fail to gauge the speed of oncoming traffic or turn into the far right lane at the same time an oncoming vehicle is changing lanes.
- Distracted Driving: Talking on a cell phone, eating, or any other non-driving activity can divert a driver’s attention and make it likely that an accident will occur.
- Bad Weather: Cars can hydroplane on wet roadways and cause side-impact collisions.
- Braking or Mechanical Failure: This is a relatively uncommon cause of a T-bone accident, but defective parts can contribute to a crash.
If another person’s negligence or recklessness caused your T-Bone crash, you have a legal right in Minneapolis to recover compensation for your injuries and other damages. An experienced lawyer can go over the facts of your case, determine whether you might have a claim and who the liable parties may be—call (800) 292-1979 for a free consultation today.