You often hear side-impact collisions referred to as T-bone collisions because of the nature of the impact, and these incidents can be devastating for drivers and passengers. At Gary C. Johnson, P.S.C., Our Lexington car accident attorneys are here to help if you need a Lexington side-impact accident lawyer by your side. We know you likely have many questions about the steps you need to take to file a claim with the insurance carriers or even a personal injury lawsuit. We want to answer your questions, and we want to help you get through this.
Injuries and T-Bone Accidents
Side-impact accidents are particularly dangerous because the sides of most vehicles offer less protection than the front or rear. When another vehicle crashes into the side, especially at high speeds, the force of the collision can directly impact the occupants, leading to severe injuries. Some of the most common injuries seen in T-bone accidents include:
- Head and brain injuries. Victims may strike their heads against windows, doors, or the steering wheel, leading to concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries can result in long-term cognitive or physical impairments.
- Neck and spinal cord injuries. The sudden jolt of a side-impact collision can cause whiplash or, in more severe cases, damage to the spinal cord, potentially leading to paralysis.
- Chest and rib injuries. When the side of the vehicle is crushed, the force can break ribs or damage internal organs, such as the lungs or heart.
- Pelvic and abdominal injuries. The lower half of the body is particularly vulnerable in a T-bone collision, leading to broken bones, organ damage, or internal bleeding.
- Broken bones. Fractures are common, especially in the arms, legs, and collarbone, as victims may brace themselves for impact or be trapped inside the vehicle.
Determining Negligence After a T-Bone Accident Case in Lexington
One of the key aspects of any side-impact accident case is determining who was at fault for the crash. In Kentucky, a comparative negligence system is used, meaning each person involved in the T-bone collision can be assigned a percentage of fault. However, identifying negligence is not always straightforward, especially in T-bone accidents, which often occur at intersections.
To prove negligence in a side-impact collision, several factors need to be considered:
- Failure to yield. Many side-impact crashes in Lexington occur when one driver fails to yield the right of way at an intersection, whether at a stop sign, traffic light, or roundabout.
- Speeding or reckless driving. If the other driver was speeding, ran a red light, or engaged in reckless driving behaviors, they may be held liable for the accident.
- Distracted driving. Texting, talking on the phone, eating or drinking, or other distractions can lead to a vehicle driver missing important traffic signals or signs, leading to a T-bone collision.
- Impaired driving. A driver under the influence of alcohol, illicit narcotics or even prescription and OTC meds is far more likely to make dangerous errors that lead to accidents.
Types of Compensation Available if Your Case Is Successful
If you are successful in your side-impact accident claim, there are several types of compensation you may be eligible to receive. The amount of compensation will depend on the severity of your injuries, how the incident affects your daily life, and the circumstances of the collision. In general, compensation falls into two main categories:
- Economic damages. These cover the tangible costs associated with the accident, such as:
- Medical expenses. This includes past and future medical bills, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, medication, and any ongoing treatment you may require as a result of your injuries.
- Lost wages. If your injuries keep you from work duties, you may be compensated for the income you lost during your recovery. In cases of long-term or permanent disability, you may also be entitled to compensation for loss of future earning capacity.
- Property damage. You can recover the cost of repairing or replacing your car or other property that may have been damaged or destroyed.
- Non-economic damages. These compensate for the emotional and psychological impact of the accident, including:
- Pain and suffering. Severe injuries can cause ongoing physical pain and emotional distress, both of which can be compensated.
- Loss of enjoyment of life. If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed, you may be entitled to compensation.
- Emotional distress. A side-impact accident can cause anxiety, depression, or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly if the accident was traumatic.
In certain cases, you may also be awarded punitive damages, which are intended to punish the at-fault party for particularly reckless or malicious behavior.
Contact a Lexington Side-Impact Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one have been injured in a side-impact collision, it is crucial to seek legal assistance to protect your rights. At Gary C. Johnson, P.S.C., our experienced Lexington injury attorneys are dedicated to helping accident victims secure the compensation they need to recover and move forward with their lives. You can get in contact for a free consultation of your situation today by filling out our contact form or calling us at (800) 337-4002.
