Side-impact collisions are among the scariest types of car accidents, accounting for approximately 25 percent of passenger vehicle occupant deaths, according to statistics published by the insurance industry. Side-impact collisions are often called “T-bone accidents” because of the shape formed when one vehicle slams into the side of another. The side-impacted car usually takes the brunt of the damage, since there is little more than a door and window — and maybe an airbag — to absorb the impact of the other car’s entire front section.
If you are injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation from the driver who caused the collision. T-bone accidents are like any other personal injury case: A plaintiff must establish liability and damages. At Bednarz & Bednarz, we have experience in helping car accident victims from Nashville, Hendersonville, and throughout Tennessee fight for the compensation they deserve. We can help you prove a defendant’s negligence and establish appropriate damages.
How Do I Prove the Other Driver Was Responsible?
Most T-bone accidents take place at intersections. A typical scenario involves one driver running a red light and smashing into the side of a vehicle that had the right-of-way. In theory, establishing the defendant’s liability should be simple.
But real-world accidents are often more complicated. For instance, what if both drivers claim they had a green light? If that is the case, it may be necessary to locate any witnesses who can corroborate one driver’s story.
If you are in any car accident — especially a T-bone collision at an intersection — the first thing you should do is contact the police. They can interview any witnesses at the scene and prepare an official accident report. This can prove critical in establishing the negligent driver’s liability for purposes of a personal injury claim later on.
Your next step–after seeking medical attention, of course–should be contacting a Nashville T-bone accident attorney. Even the simplest of car accidents produces large amounts of evidence, paperwork, and other details that can prove overwhelming, especially if you are still dealing with physical and mental injuries. Our attorneys know how to keep track of these details so you can focus on getting better.
T-Bone Accidents Can Cause Serious Physical and Mental Injuries
Because drivers and passengers in the “T-boned” vehicle are often unprotected from the full impact, they may suffer several serious, life-threatening injuries, including:
- Chest trauma
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Damage to the spinal cord
- Broken ribs, arms, and legs
- Whiplash or related neck injuries
- Torn ligaments
Traumatic brain injuries are a special concern because the symptoms may not be immediately apparent. TBI can occur even when there is no blunt-force wound. The sudden movement of your head during a T-bone accident can actually cause your brain to impact internally against your skull. It may take several weeks for the damage to manifest itself–but when it does, you may be looking at permanent neurological impairment.
The Nashville Car Accident Attorneys at Bednarz & Bednarz Can Help
The potential for long-term damage is one reason you need to work with an experienced Nashville car accident attorney. The negligent driver’s insurance company will likely move quickly to settle your claim — especially if it is clear that their client was at fault. But an insurer’s first offer rarely accounts for the full amount of damages you sustained. You should never agree to any settlement unless you are represented by an attorney who is looking out for your interests.
Contact Bednarz & Bednarz today at 615-256-0100 to schedule a free consultation with one of our highly qualified Nashville T-bone accident attorneys. We can review your case and deal with the insurance companies on your behalf. If necessary, we will file a personal injury lawsuit and vigorously advocate for your rights in court.
