Car accidents are unfortunately a part of life in a mobile society. They may be minor fender-benders or catastrophic collisions. Unlike most dented bumpers, however, side impact/T-bone car accidents in Galveston are some of the most dangerous. T-bone accidents occur when a vehicle strikes the side of another vehicle at its midpoint, often leading to severe injuries.
Most vehicles do not have side crumple zones that can absorb some of the impact. As a result, passengers absorb the energy released during a collision, often causing life-threatening injuries. Anyone injured in this way should contact a car accident attorney to preserve their rights to compensation.
What Causes a Side Impact Car Accident?
Side-impact is an umbrella term that covers T-bone and sideswipe accidents. Sideswipe accidents occur when the side of one vehicle comes in contact with the side of another, and although they are often less severe than T-bones, they can still cause damage or lead to a secondary accident. Most side impact accidents occur because of the following:
- A driver is impaired
- Drivers attempt a left-hand turn across oncoming traffic
- Drivers fail to check their blind spots when changing lanes
- A driver fails to yield the right of way and strikes another vehicle
- A driver is distracted because of smartphone use, drinking, eating, or grooming
Regardless of the cause or injuries, accident victims should consult an experienced personal injury lawyer to avoid exceeding the two-year statute of limitations.
What to Do if Involved in a Side Impact Accident
Car accident scenes can be chaotic, making it difficult to remember what to do to prevent critical information from being lost. The following three actions are essential for anyone in Galveston involved in a side-impact car accident.
Call 911
When requesting assistance, be sure to ask for law enforcement and medical assistance if anyone is injured. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) can assess injuries and transport individuals to a hospital, if needed. Law enforcement will investigate the accident and submit a report that forms the foundation of any legal action. They may issue citations for traffic violations.
Take Pictures
If possible, take pictures of the vehicles at the crash scene before they are moved. Videos of surrounding areas can reveal environmental conditions that impact liability. Witnesses can also provide videos or photographs as well as statements. Collect contact information from all witnesses, as they may not be part of the police report.
Exchange Insurance Information
Drivers should exchange insurance information. Taking a picture of the insurance card or document ensures that information is accurate and can be forwarded to insurance carriers. Ask for identifying documents to determine who was driving at the time of the accident. Remember, the person driving the car may not be the person on the insurance documents.
Call a Galveston Attorney About T-Bone Accidents
Accident victims often face physical, financial, and psychological obstacles as they try to recover from side impact/T-bone car accidents in Galveston. The stress of juggling appointments, work, and bills can become overwhelming, interfering with recovery. A lawyer experienced in side impact accidents can help alleviate some of the stress.
Knowledgeable attorneys can negotiate settlements with insurance carriers or take legal action to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve. They can file the appropriate paperwork to preserve victims’ rights to pursue compensation and develop a legal strategy. If you or someone you know has been injured in a side impact accident, contact Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP to schedule an appointment.
