A side-impact collision is when one vehicle is hit by another on either the driver side or passenger side doors or quarter-panels. Side-on crashes are also commonly known as T-bone accidents. They typically occur at an intersection when someone is trying to beat the light and strikes a vehicle while they are making a turn, or while after the light has changed the drivers that now have the right of way have entered the intersection and the driver running the red light hits them.
These accidents are among the most dangerous to the victims as there are usually fewer safety precautions on the side of a vehicle compared to the front, potentially leading to more severe injuries. If you or a loved one was injured in a T-bone crash, call a Clearwater side-impact car accident lawyer today and start seeking the compensation that you deserve. A dedicated car accident attorney could help you negotiate with insurance companies or fight for you in court.
The First Steps to Take After a T-bone Crash in Clearwater
A person who has been in a side-impact collision, first and foremost should get themselves to a safe location, assess their injuries, and make sure that they are receiving appropriate medical attention. The next most important thing to do is to get insurance and identification information from the other driver. Drivers should also speak with the investigating officers as soon as possible to give their statements on what happened with the accident. It is also important that the victim also contact their own insurance company.
The next most important thing to do is to contact a dedicated car accident attorney and start collecting evidence. Memories fade and the scene of the accident will be cleaned up, so it is essential to get all the necessary information about the crash as soon after the incident as possible. Once a skilled lawyer has been called to the scene, they could handle the collection of evidence and use it to start building a strong case for compensation.
Common Damages after a Side-On Collision
Some common effects of side-impact collisions are spinal injuries because of the forces of the collision. People are not necessarily meant to move side to side in the way that they are thrown and these crashes often lead to head, neck, and spinal injuries. There may also be lacerations, punctures, or severe bleeding caused by broken glass thrown in the impact.
As with most vehicles, plaintiffs are able to recover both property damage and bodily injury compensation. However, this largely depends on the insurance coverage the other driver has. All Florida drivers are required to carry a state minimum amount of coverage, but a victim’s damages may exceed this cap, or the insurance company may be unwilling to give a settlement for the deserved amount. In such situations, it may be necessary to file a lawsuit.
Let an Attorney Investigate and Pursue Appropriate Compensation
An attorney can help to investigate the liability and the cause of a side-impact collision. They can help ensure that your rights are protected and the insurance companies are handled. After a severe side-impact car accident, a compassionate Clearwater lawyer may be just the ally you need to secure the monetary damages you deserve. Call today to schedule a consultation for your case.
