One of the most dangerous types of car accidents is a side impact collision. This is often referred to as a T-bone accident and the effects can be catastrophic. Victims almost always experience serious injuries in this type of accident due to the lack of protection and limited number of airbags in older vehicles. As with any accident, be sure to immediately seek medical help and professional legal advice. 

The Issue of Liability

Establishing fault in a side impact car accident can be tricky. For example, you might get T-boned while turning left at a red light, but if you failed to yield properly and the other driver is speeding then both of you might be considered at fault. Another common example is if you get hit while turning at a four-way stop. The factors of speed and distraction for both drivers will come into consideration. Due to complex ways of apportioning fault, do not waste time and contact an attorney who has experience in handling these types of cases.

Top 5 Causes of Side Impact Accidents

1. Distracted Driving: Drivers have more opportunity for distraction than ever before. The impact of cell phone use has become so prevalent that many states have laws against the use of phones while driving. If a driver is busy texting or selecting music from a cell phone, he or she increases the chance of turning improperly and t-boning another vehicle.

2. Substance Abuse: Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol while driving will naturally impair one’s decisions. You may find yourself making a judgment you would normally never make, and the consequences could last a lifetime.

3. Speeding: Increased speed makes it difficult to react in an appropriate way while driving. The faster a driver is going, the less time he or she will have to make changes to the path of the vehicle. Impacts of any kind will become more likely and side impacts will become more deadly with increased speed. 

4. Failure to Yield or Stop: A majority of T-bone collisions occur at stoplights and/or four-way stops. This makes proper yielding and complete stops even more crucial. Fight the urge to roll through lights or four-ways as it can lead to dire consequences. 

5. Disregard of Weather Conditions: Weather can significantly impact driving conditions. Intense rain, snow, or sleet can require drivers to slow down and be more cautious than usual. If a driver fails to do so, he or she will struggle to control the vehicle in a safe manner. Some areas of the country even require certain tires or tire chains to be used during the winter because accidents are anticipated. 

Car accidents happen every day and can be physically and emotionally draining. Instead of trying to sort this type of problem on your own, seek the help of an experienced lawyer. If you have been involved in a side impact collision, pick up the phone and call (888) 588-1777 to speak with Amicus Legal Group today.