T-bone car accidents, which are side-impact or broadside crashes, are one of the most devastating types of accidents for anyone inside the vehicle. According to multiple studies, including one conducted by Monash University Accident Research Center, T-bone crashes are more likely to result in the deaths of victims. These types of crashes are responsible for killing up to 10,000 victims every year. Even at lower speeds, side-impact accidents can cause severe or fatal injuries.
The North Carolina car accident attorneys at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp know how tragic these crashes can be for victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured in one of these horrific accidents, call our office to speak with a member of our legal team and find out what legal options you may have.
T-Bone Crash
When a victim is in a front or rear vehicle crash, the airbags and seat belts in the vehicle help to minimize any impact for occupants in the front seat. The only protection in a T-bone crash comes from side airbags, however, side airbags did not become mandatory in vehicles until September 2009. This means when the vehicle is slammed into the side, the victim can be thrown against the vehicle door, resulting in fractures and head injuries. There is also the possibility of the victim being crushed by the door, resulting in lacerations, fractures, and compartment syndrome.
If the injuries are left untreated (i.e. unknown internal injuries) or are severe, an injury from a T-bone crash can lead to the victim’s death. Even serious injuries usually end up requiring some length of rest and recovery period, meaning months without an income. Medical treatments can involve hospitalizations, surgeries, physical and occupational therapy, medical equipment, medications, and more. Depending on how severe the victim’s injuries are, they may never fully recover and are left with permanent disabilities.
If the side-impact crash was caused by another driver, then the victim is entitled under the law to full and fair compensation for any losses they have suffered. Not only does this include the economic losses, but it also includes noneconomic losses related to their injuries and/or loss of consortium.
While it may appear obvious that a T-bone crash victim has suffered severe injuries and deserves compensation, the reality is that insurance companies will do all they can to get out of paying that full and fair compensation. They will attempt to pay as little as possible or will do all they can to deny the claim, even blaming the victim for the crash. This is especially true in cases where that compensation should result in hundreds of thousands of dollars or even millions to cover all of the losses the victim has suffered.
The tactics these companies use are well documented, manipulating and intimidating victims and family members when they are at their most vulnerable – injured, suffering from pain, overwhelmed by the physical and financial impact of the crash – in order to get out of paying what the victim deserves.
This is why all victims of T-bone crashes should contact a Carolinas car accident attorney. The attorneys at our firm are skilled in negotiations with insurance companies, as well as seasoned litigators in the event the insurance company will not settle, and the case has to go to trial. We will also assist with avoiding medical bill collection action while your case is pending.
Let a Carolinas Car Accident Attorney Help
If you have been injured in a T-bone crash, not only to you have to deal with the physical and emotional effects of the accident, but you are likely dealing with the financial consequences, as well. Since these crashes often result in serious or severe injuries, the medical bills for treatment of these injuries are usually much higher than other types of crashes. This also means the victim is unable to work while they recover, leading to a loss of income and benefits during this time.
If the crash was caused by another party who behaved recklessly or negligently, North Carolina allows victims to take legal action in order to be financially compensated for all of these financial expenses. Victims can also pursue damages for losses that are not economic, such as pain and suffering, scarring emotional anguish, and more.
If you would like to discuss your situation, contact our office to speak with a seasoned North Carolina accident attorney. Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp has been advocating for accident victims for more than three decades and will work diligently to get you the compensation you deserve.
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