What Happens When Your Car is T-Boned?
Of all the types of automobile collisions, few are as dangerous as a T-bone accident. Commonly referred to as a side-impact crash, this results when the front of one vehicle collides with the side of another.
Many victims of these accidents never see the other car until the moment of impact. Additionally, an impact to the side of a vehicle can send it spinning out of control. In the aftermath, the injured party typically has two paths to recover compensation for their losses: an ICBC claim or a civil lawsuit.
If you have suffered an injury in a T-bone accident, you might be entitled to benefits from an ICBC claim. There is no guarantee your claim will be successful, however. A phone call to an ICBC personal injury law firm could help you put yourself in the best position to recover compensation. For an in-depth review of your case, reach out to us as soon as possible.
Understanding T-bone accidents
Like with any accident, distracted or intoxicated drivers often play a role in this type of crash. However, most of these accidents occur due to a driver disregarding a stop sign or other traffic control device. A side-impact crash is more likely at an intersection, as it is one of the few situations where there is the potential to collide with high-speed cross traffic.
In many cases, an inattentive driver will fail to recognize a stop sign or red light and enter the intersection unlawfully. In other cases, a driver will attempt to squeeze through an intersection as the light changes red, only to strike cross traffic.
Unlike certain types of accidents, there is no presumption of fault in a T-bone crash. Depending on the circumstances, either vehicle could be liable. The vehicle with the right of way is just as likely to be struck by the other vehicle as it is to crash into it.
What to do after the crash
Your steps immediately following a T-bone accident are important. First and foremost, it is crucial that you seek medical treatment. Even if you feel fine, it is in your best interest to see a doctor. Ensuring you receive medical treatment is good for your health and your claim for damages.
Once your medical needs are stabilized, you could benefit from preserving as much evidence from the accident as possible. This can include taking photos of your vehicle or the scene. If you are aware of neutral witnesses, it is always a good idea to obtain their contact information. If a trial becomes necessary, neutral witnesses can be very persuasive.
If you suffered injuries in your accident, you will also need to contact the police. Notifying law enforcement in cases where bodily injuries have occurred is mandatory, and the investigation they complete could ultimately be of use to your claim.
Seek help from an experienced lawyer
Your odds of recovering compensation for your injuries increase dramatically if you work with an ICBC lawyer. They can guide you through the process of filing a claim as well as dealing with the insurance company, so you do not have to. While pursuing an ICBC claim after a T-bone accident might be overwhelming, the right lawyer could simplify the process.
Preszler Injury Lawyers has built its reputation helping the victims of serious accidents recover the compensation they deserve. To discuss your claim at length, contact us as soon as possible.
