Side impact, also called T-bone, vehicle collisions are a frightening experience, and when someone is sitting in the area of impact, they are at a substantial risk of suffering severe harm. Cars have much less material on the side compared to the front and back, making T-bone crashes among the most severe.
Sadly, they almost always happen because of a driver’s negligence. You could be eligible for compensation if someone else’s carelessness causes you bodily harm and other losses. Speak with a compassionate attorney skilled in handling claims resulting from side impact/T-bone car accidents in Kent to learn more.
Causes of Side Impact Car Wrecks
Side impact collisions most commonly happen in intersections in Kent because of a motorist’s negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
- Failure to yield the right-of-way
- Driver distractions, such as eating, changing the radio station, or sending text messages
- Drinking and driving
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Neglecting to follow other traffic safety rules and regulations
- Speeding and reckless driving
Bad weather causing hazardous road conditions is another typical reason the collisions occur and can leave those involved with life-threatening injuries.
Injuries from Side Impact Collisions
Whether the occupants sustain minor or severe injuries, seeking medical care immediately is essential. Sometimes, injuries to internal organs or brain damage are not apparent right away, and seeing a healthcare professional is crucial for recovering a settlement from the at-fault party. A person could sustain the following injuries in a crash:
- Broken bones or traumatic amputations
- Neck injuries, such as whiplash
- Severe head, skull, and traumatic brain injuries
- Chest and internal organ damage from seat belts
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Severe crush injuries
- Hip fractures and severe leg injuries
- Wrongful death
An attorney could investigate and reconstruct the accident to determine fault and establish liability in civil court.
Auto Insurance Requirements
After a crash caused by someone else’s recklessness, the injured person has the right to file a claim with the liable party’s auto insurance provider. They can also bring legal action in civil court when there is insufficient coverage or the provider will not agree to a fair payout amount.
The Revised Code of Washington ยง 46.29.260 provides that the negligent party who causes a car wreck is financially responsible for covering the cost of damages for themselves and other drivers. They must promptly report the accident to their insurer to initiate the claims process. Other drivers involved in the accident have the legal right to recover the cost of medical care, lost salary, emotional distress, loss of the enjoyment of life and inconvenience, and pain and suffering.
Insurance Company Communication
The at-fault driver’s insurance company usually calls the other drivers within a day or two for a statement and to begin discussing the settlement amount. Handling the communication independently without legal advice can mean taking a payout that is too low for the damages. A lawyer seasoned with cases resulting from Kent T-Bone car crashes could handle the communication on the injured person’s behalf and the legal work to file a claim if necessary.
Meet With an Experienced Attorney for More About Kent Side Impact/T-Bone Car Accidents
T-bone crashes are traumatic and often have catastrophic consequences, leading to outrageous medical bills and missing time from work. Therefore, when someone else’s carelessness causes the collision, holding them financially accountable is essential.
A hard-working lawyer skilled with the claims process for side impact/T-bone car accidents in Kent could guide you and fight for the fair settlement amount you deserve. Call soon to schedule a consultation and review your case and options.