T-bone car accidents, sometimes referred to as side-impact or broadside accidents, are common in densely populated urban regions like Chicago. This type of crash typically occurs when one vehicle strikes the side of another at a 90-degree angle – giving it the appearance of a “T.”
Determining who is at fault necessitates a thorough understanding of the typical causes of such incidents and likely parties that could be held responsible. Ultimately, the best way to make this determination is to work with an experienced Chicago car accident lawyer.
Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents
A variety of situations can lead to T-bone accidents and serious injuries – like whiplash and broken bones. However, certain circumstances repeatedly present themselves as common causes:
Failing To Yield the Right-of-Way
Failing to yield at stop signs or traffic lights is one of the largest contributors. A driver who breezes past a stop sign or rushes through a yellow light at an intersection can put other motorists in great danger, leading to a T-bone collision.
Reckless or Aggressive Driving
Drivers who disregard traffic regulations and engage in reckless behavior like speeding or abruptly changing lanes are also more likely to cause a T-bone crash. These actions make it difficult for other drivers to anticipate movements and react appropriately, increasing the risk of accidents.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other types of medication can result in T-bone accidents, as an intoxicated driver has impaired reaction times and judgment.
Poor Road Conditions
Potholes and other road obstructions are often overlooked causes of T-bone accidents. Vehicles swerving to avoid these can easily end up colliding with the side of another vehicle.
Identifying these common causes enhances the understanding of potentially liable parties.
Potentially Liable Parties in T-Bone Car Accidents
When it comes to determining liability in T-bone accidents, there are several possible at-fault parties. Here’s an overview:
The Other Driver
Quite often, another driver is the liable party in T-bone car accidents. If this other driver was intoxicated, speeding, failed to yield at a traffic light or stop sign, or was otherwise engaged in negligent behavior before the collision occurred, they can be held accountable for your damages.
A Government Entity
In some cases – like where potholes or poor road conditions lead to a wreck – you may have grounds for filing your claim against the government entity tasked with maintaining the safety of our roads.
A Car or Parts Manufacturer
At times, the cause of a T-bone accident can be traced back to faulty vehicle parts, such as brake failure. In these instances, potential liability may rest with the manufacturer responsible for those defective parts (this is known as product liability law).
The Employer of the Other Driver
An employer potentially becomes liable in a T-bone accident if the driver was acting within the scope of their employment when the crash occurred. This is due to a legal concept known as “vicarious liability,” which applies when an employee’s negligent action, conducted during their work duties, causes harm to someone else.
A Mechanic/Maintenance Company
Sometimes, lax service by mechanics can lead to critical vehicle systems failing and thus causing accidents. If it is determined that poor maintenance practices contributed significantly to an accident, you might have grounds to hold these individuals accountable.
As you can see, several parties can be held liable for a T-bone accident. It’s critical to work with a personal injury attorney, as they can help make this determination and ensure you obtain the compensation you need so you can focus on healing.
Evidence Used To Prove Liability for a T-Bone Crash
While understanding the potentially liable parties is helpful, it’s also beneficial to understand what evidence is used to prove negligence in this type of accident:
Traffic Cameras or Surveillance Footage
Videos often offer irrefutable proof about the specifics of an accident. Any nearby cameras on streets, businesses, or homes can provide footage detailing the incident.
Witness Testimony
Eyewitnesses can help support your account and corroborate that another party was at fault. Additionally, expert testimony may be used. Experts like accident reconstruction specialists can reconstruct the scene and offer an informed analysis of how exactly the collision occurred and who is likely to be at fault.
Vehicle Damage
The point of impact, damage pattern, and degree of damage on vehicles often provide clues in determining which driver was at fault.
Providing evidence is critical to obtaining compensation. The more evidence you have, the more likely it is that your lawyer will be able to negotiate a fair settlement offer for you.
Contact the Chicago Car Accident Law Firm of Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys for Help Today
Determining fault in a T-bone car accident can be a complex endeavor, with many possible liable parties. If you’ve been involved in a T-bone collision and believe someone else was at fault, working with a car accident lawyer is essential.
For more information, please contact the experienced Chicago car accident lawyers at Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys today. We offer free consultations.
We proudly serve Cook County, Will County, Kendall County, and its surrounding areas:
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Chicago Office
10 S La Salle St STE 1230, Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 726-1616
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Joliet Office
195 Springfield Ave, Joliet, IL 60435
(815) 726-1616
