There are thousands of car accidents across the United States every day. Some accidents are minor, while others are very serious, depending on the type of collision, the speed at which the collision occurs, and what type of vehicles are involved. Broadside collisions are a type of motor vehicle accident that can be particularly serious especially when high speeds or a large vehicle is involved.
It can take months or years to recover from injuries sustained in a broadside accident; some are faced with a permanent disability or die as a result of their injuries. Many of these accident victims end up with huge medical bills, extended pain and suffering, emotional distress, and lost wages while they recover. Lost earning capacity applies in cases that result in disability or loss of life. If you or a loved one was injured in a broadside collision because of the negligence of another driver, you deserve to be compensated for your losses. Call a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights.
What is a broadside collision?
A broadside collision (also called a T-bone or side impact collision) is a type of car accident that occurs when the front of one vehicle slams into the side of another vehicle. When this type of accident happens at high speeds, it can cause very serious injuries or fatalities – especially to the driver or passenger hit from the side. The reason the person who is hit from the side is more vulnerable is because there is typically only a door in between them and the point of impact.
Common causes of broadside collisions
Negligent driving is the main reason for most broadside collisions, but specifically, the following actions create enormous risk for this type of accident:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Drowsy driving
- Failing to yield the right of way in an intersection (example, turning left into oncoming traffic that has the right of way)
- Running a red light or stop sign
An experienced car accident lawyer will gather information about what led up to and caused your accident, and help determine liability.
Where do broadside collisions most commonly occur?
A broadside collision can happen in many different circumstances but the most common location for broadside accidents is at intersections because this is where vehicles are most likely to cross paths coming from different directions. According to the Federal Highway Administration, approximately 50% of all traffic accidents that happen in an intersection are broadside collisions. Broadside collisions also commonly occur any place where an alley or driveway connects to a road. While certain places may increase the risk of broadside crashes, many broadside accidents could be prevented if drivers were paying closer attention to their surroundings.
Common injuries from broadside crashes
Here are some of the most common injuries suffered in broadside crashes:
- Broken bones
- Severe cuts and bruises
- Amputations
- Internal injuries
- Burns
- Spinal cord damage
- Disfigurement
- Physical impairment
- Concussion
- Crushing injuries
These are very serious injuries that require immediate medical attention after the accident. We encourage you to get the medical treatment you need as soon as possible.
Broadside collisions are extremely dangerous for both drivers and passengers, particularly those who are in the vehicle being hit from the side. A personal injury lawyer can help victims recover damages.
Seek the help of a car accident lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced car accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
