Few types of collisions are more devastating than being struck directly in the driver’s or passenger’s door by another vehicle. Side panels offer minimal protection compared to the front and rear of modern cars, leading to serious and sometimes fatal injuries.
When you or a loved one has been injured in a T-bone accident, you have the right to file an insurance claim or lawsuit against the responsible party. These cases frequently involve complex questions about right-of-way and liability, requiring thorough investigation and skilled legal representation with the help of a car accident lawyer in McAllen.
How Do T-Bone Accidents Happen?
A T-bone accident occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another vehicle, forming a “T” shape at impact. These collisions often happen at intersections, parking lots, and driveways where vehicles cross paths perpendicularly.
T-bone accidents can happen in many ways, but some of the most common causes include:
- Running red lights
- Rolling through stop signs
- Failing to yield
- Distracted driving
- Poor visibility
- Impaired driving
- Left turns across traffic
- Backing out of driveways
- Mechanical brake failure
- Driver fatigue
- Aggressive driving
Who Is at Fault for a T-Bone Accident in Texas?
Texas follows a fault-based system for car accidents, meaning the driver responsible for causing the crash bears financial liability for resulting damages. Victims can pursue legal claims against the responsible party and recover compensation to make themselves whole again. Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be liable for a T-bone accident.
A driver who runs a red light and strikes another vehicle lawfully passing through the intersection bears clear fault for violating traffic laws. Similarly, when a driver backs out of a parking space without checking their surroundings and collides with a vehicle traveling in the parking lot lane, the reversing driver would typically bear full liability for failing to yield. However, if a driver makes a left turn on a flashing yellow signal and gets hit by a speeding vehicle, both parties may share responsibility.
Compensation Available in T-Bone Accident Claims
T-bone accidents often result in severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment and prolonged recovery periods. The financial and personal toll can be overwhelming for victims and their families. If you were involved in one of these collisions, you can recover compensation for the damages that you suffered by filing an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Compensation in these claims is usually divided into two categories: economic and non-economic.
- Economic Damages: These include quantifiable losses like medical bills, lost wages, property damage, rehabilitation costs, and any other expenses directly related to the accident that can be proven with documentation.
- Non-Economic Damages: These cover subjective losses that do not have a clear monetary value, such as physical pain, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent disability or disfigurement.
A Texas car accident lawyer can help you determine the damages that you qualify for and calculate the full value of your claim. With this support, you can pursue the full compensation that you need to move forward.
Discuss Your Case with De La Garza Law Firm Today
Side-impact collisions can leave devastating injuries and overwhelming medical bills in their wake. You should not have to shoulder these burdens alone, especially if another driver’s negligence caused your crash.
De La Garza Law Firm has years of experience handling T-bone accident cases throughout Texas and will fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us at (956) 533-1426 to discuss your case and begin protecting your future.