T-bone car accidents or side impact collisions are common on Kentucky roads. Unfortunately, such accidents account for 24 percent of passenger or driver deaths and lead to extensive property damage.
Most T-bone accidents occur in intersections when one driver turns while another motorist goes straight. While either driver could be at fault for such an accident, only one of the drivers has the right of way. Here are a few ways liability can be distributed:
Drivers involved in the car accident
If you cross an intersection on a green light and another motorist runs the light and strikes you from the side, the driver at the bottom of the T is liable for the accident. On the other hand, if another motorist runs the green light and you hit them, then they’re at fault. However, depending on the circumstance of the car crash, you and the other motorist may share fault.
Another motorist
Sometimes, none of the drivers involved in a T-bone accident may be at fault. For instance, if another motorist made an improper left turn and caused you to swerve to avoid a crash, but you hit another vehicle from the side, then the driver who made the illegal turn is liable for your car accident.
Remember that the driver who indirectly caused the T-bone accident is legally required to stop and remain at the crash scene. If the driver fails to stop, you should talk to witnesses and document everything that happened before and after the collision.
Vehicle manufacturer
In case one of the cars involved in the T-bone crash had faulty parts that may have contributed to the crash, such as a malfunctioning alternator or bad brakes, then the vehicle manufacturer may be liable for damages.
T-bone collisions are traumatizing and can cause serious injuries. At this time, it’s essential to focus on recovering, but it’s equally important to seek legal assistance to get compensation for damages.