Side-impact car crashes (also known as “T-bone” or “broadside” collisions) occurs when a vehicle is hit on its side by another vehicle. Side-impact crashes are a particularly deadly kind of crash, accounting for 29% of all passenger-vehicle occupant deaths in the U.S. in 2009. They also produce a high rate of severe injuries, including broken bones and fractures, head trauma, spinal cord injury, paralysis, and damage to the abdomen and pelvis.
The driver and passengers in the struck car in side-impact collision are more likely to suffer injuries than those in a rear-end collision. This is because the sides of vehicles have a fairly small amount of space to absorb the energy of the other vehicle. Moreover, the force of a side-impact crash often pushes the struck vehicle into the path of other vehicles, causing further collisions, damage and injuries.
Causes of Side-Impact Car Accidents
In most cases, broadside collisions are preventable. They are typically caused by a negligent or reckless driver who:
- ran a red light or stop sign
- failed to yield the right of way during a turn
- engaged in distracted driving behavior such as texting or talking on a cell phone
- raced through a yellow light
- drove under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Consequences of Side-Impact Car Accidents
Even though many vehicles are now designed with side airbags and reinforced side doors, the odds remain high that you’ll suffer a serious injury if you have the misfortune to get into a side-impact collision. Such injuries often require multiple surgeries, rehabilitative therapy, and long-term medical treatment. The resulting medical bills can be exorbitant, making many side-impact car accident victims feel overwhelmed and frightened.
How an Accident Lawyer Can Help
Negligent or reckless drivers that cause injuries and damage through a side-impact collisions can – and should – be held responsible for their actions. While you’re recovering from your injuries, let an experienced San Francisco Bay Area car accident lawyer fight on your behalf for the financial compensation that you need and deserve.
If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to receive reimbursement of your medical expenses as well as compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, a permanent disfigurement or disability, or costs relating to a wrongful death.
Please contact us for a free consultation without delay if you’ve been a victim of a side-impact car accident. We are ready to do battle for your right to compensation.
The California side-impact car accident attorneys at the Appel Law Firm LLP are dedicated to helping San Francisco Bay Area residents receive compensation for injuries and wrongful deaths arising from side-impact car accidents.
