Side-Impact/T-Bone Car Accidents in Bakersfield

Side-impact, or T-bone, collisions in Bakersfield are recognizable by the distinct “T” shape formed when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. These accidents frequently occur when a driver fails to yield the right-of-way, often at intersections, stop signs, or traffic signals.

T-bone accidents are dangerous because the sides of a vehicle provide less structural protection compared to the front and rear. As a result, occupants in the struck vehicle face a higher risk of serious injuries.  That includes broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, and internal damage. While the driver and passengers in the oncoming vehicle may also suffer injuries, they are generally less severe due to the protection offered by the vehicle’s front-end crumple zones.

If you were injured in a T-bone accident, a skilled personal injury attorney can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Seeking legal guidance can be crucial to securing the financial support you need for recovery.

Causes of T-Bone Wrecks

Nearly every T-bone accident happens because one or both drivers fail to yield the right-of-way. These crashes commonly occur at intersections with stop signs or traffic lights, but can also occur in parking lots, private driveways, and other areas where roads intersect.

Distracted and Reckless Driving

Distracted driving is a major factor in many side-impact collisions. When drivers are texting, eating, or focused on something other than the road, they may not notice a red light, stop sign, or oncoming vehicle in time to stop. Speeding also increases the likelihood of these wrecks. At higher speeds, drivers have less time to react and may be unable to stop before entering an intersection. Additionally, high-speed crashes result in greater impact forces, leading to more severe injuries.

Drowsy and Intoxicated Driving

Drowsy driving and intoxication further raise the risk of T-bone accidents by slowing reaction times, impairing judgment, and increasing driver distraction. A fatigued or impaired driver may misjudge when it is safe to proceed through an intersection or fail to notice a stop signal altogether.

Liability

Many people assume that the driver who crashes into the side of another vehicle is always at fault, but this is not always the case. For example, if a driver runs a red light and crosses into the path of another vehicle that had the right-of-way, the driver who was hit may have had no way to avoid the collision.

If you were injured in a side-impact accident, a Bakersfield lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.

Injuries in T-Bone Wrecks

T-bone collisions in Bakersfield can result in severe injuries, especially for the occupants of the vehicle that gets hit. Victims may suffer from head, spine, and torso injuries, as well as crush injuries and broken bones. Meanwhile, those in the vehicle that strike the other car face an increased risk of whiplash and soft-tissue injuries due to the sudden deceleration of their vehicle.

Seeking medical attention after a side-impact crash is crucial, even if you don’t immediately feel injured. Adrenaline can mask pain, and serious conditions like closed head injuries, spinal trauma, and internal organ damage may not show symptoms right away. A medical evaluation can help detect hidden injuries early, prevent complications, and establish a clear link between the accident and your injuries. That can be critical in a personal injury claim.

The impact of these injuries can be life-changing, affecting everything from medical expenses and recovery time to the ability to return to work. Some victims may face permanent disabilities that may prevent them from resuming their careers or daily activities. The severity of the injuries also affects non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life. The more an injury disrupts a victim’s life, the greater the compensation they may be entitled to pursue.

Talk to a Bakersfield Lawyer if You Were Injured in a Side-Impact or T-Bone Car Wreck

Victims of side-impact/ T-bone car accidents in Bakersfield may experience a wide range of damages. From medical bills to pain and suffering and much more. The wrongdoer may be held responsible for restoring victims to the position they were in prior to the wreck. If you were injured in a T-bone car crash, contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your potential remedies.