T-Bone Car Accident Lawyer

T-bone collisions—also known as side-impact or broadside accidents—occur when one vehicle strikes the side of another at a right angle, forming a "T" shape. These accidents often happen suddenly and can leave victims facing significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. 

If you’ve been injured in a T-bone car accident, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the path to recovery and justice. At William Mattar Law Offices, our dedicated team of T-bone car accident lawyers is here to help you navigate the aftermath of a T-bone accident, secure the compensation you deserve, and support your journey to recovery. 

Our attorneys are familiar with state and local laws that may impact your personal injury claim, and we’re ready to fight for your rights.

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What Makes T-Bone Accidents So Dangerous?

T-bone accidents frequently occur at intersections, often because one driver fails to yield or runs a red light. However, these collisions can happen anywhere, such as when a driver pulls out of a driveway or side street without seeing oncoming traffic. 

Unlike rear-end or head-on collisions, side-impact crashes leave vehicle occupants with limited protection on the side panels, increasing the likelihood of serious injury. Without the benefit of a crumple zone or reinforced framework, a vehicle struck from the side exposes its occupants to potentially severe trauma. 

In New York, where traffic congestion and busy intersections are common, T-bone accidents are unfortunately all too frequent. These collisions can be devastating, often resulting in injuries that may affect you for years to come. 

That’s why having a T-bone car accident lawyer who understands New York’s traffic laws and the intricacies of personal injury claims can make a meaningful difference in securing your future.

How Often Do Traffic Collisions Involve a T-bone Crash?

T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact or broadside collisions, account for a substantial percentage of severe car crashes in the U.S. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that side-impact accidents were responsible for 22% of vehicle occupant fatalities in car crashes in 2022. 

Where Do Side-Impact Collisions Occur?

T-bone accidents, also called side-impact or broadside collisions, typically occur in specific locations that present unique risks. A car accident attorney with experience handling claims involving T-bone collisions knows what to look for to identify the liable parties in these types of crashes.

Intersections

The majority of T-bone accidents occur at intersections, where vehicles cross paths and traffic flows from multiple directions. Intersections require drivers to yield, stop, and turn, often with signals or stop signs. 

However, these locations also create opportunities for mistakes or rule violations, such as running a red light, failing to yield, or misjudging another vehicle’s speed. Due to the volume of traffic and the complexity of these maneuvers, intersections are prime locations for side-impact collisions.

• Signalized Intersections: At intersections controlled by traffic lights, T-bone accidents often occur when one driver ignores a red light or stop signal, resulting in a side-impact collision with a vehicle that has the right of way.
• Four-Way Stops: These intersections can be confusing, especially if drivers are unsure of the right-of-way rules. Misunderstandings or impatience at four-way stops often lead to T-bone collisions.

Uncontrolled Intersections

Uncontrolled intersections, which lack traffic lights, signs, or yield markers, can be especially hazardous. These intersections are often found in residential areas or rural regions where traffic flow is less regulated. 

When drivers approach an uncontrolled intersection, they may assume they have the right of way, only to be struck by a vehicle approaching from another direction. The absence of clear signals or stop signs can lead to misunderstandings and unexpected T-bone crashes.

Driveways and Parking Lots

T-bone accidents can also occur in driveways and parking lots, especially as vehicles attempt to enter or exit these areas. In parking lots, cars often back out or move across lanes with limited visibility, creating the potential for side-impact collisions. Similarly, when vehicles pull out of driveways onto busy streets, drivers may fail to notice oncoming traffic, resulting in a T-bone accident. 

Shopping centers are especially risky areas for side-impact crashes. High traffic volume and frequent pedestrian activity increase the likelihood of T-bone accidents in shopping center parking lots, where vehicles frequently stop, start, and maneuver at different angles.

Highways and Merging Lanes

While less common, T-bone accidents can happen on highways, particularly in areas where merging occurs, such as highway on-ramps or exit ramps. When a vehicle attempts to merge and doesn’t yield or misjudges the speed of another car, it can lead to a high-speed side-impact collision. These T-bone accidents are especially dangerous due to the higher speeds typically involved on highways.

Residential Streets

Residential streets, especially those with lower visibility due to parked cars, bushes, or tight turns, can also be prone to T-bone accidents. In these areas, vehicles may pull out from side streets, driveways, or parking spots, sometimes with limited visibility. 

Children playing nearby or pedestrians crossing the street can add to the complexity, as drivers may become distracted or react suddenly, increasing the risk of side-impact collisions.

Rural Roads and Unmarked Crossings

On rural roads, T-bone accidents may occur at unmarked crossings or dirt-road intersections without stop signs or signals. Drivers unfamiliar with rural areas may not anticipate intersections, and the lack of signage can lead to confusion over the right-of-way. Rural T-bone accidents are often dangerous because of higher speeds, minimal road lighting, and longer emergency response times.

Common Causes of T-Bone Car Accidents in New York

T-bone auto accidents can happen for various reasons, but some of the most common causes in New York include:

• Failure to Yield: At intersections, drivers who fail to yield the right of way are a primary cause of T-bone crashes. Ignoring traffic signals, running red lights, or disregarding stop signs can lead to sudden, forceful impacts.
• Distracted Driving: Distractions such as texting, eating, or using in-car technology can take a driver’s focus off the road, leading to accidental lane departures and intersection collisions.
• Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug impairment reduces reaction time and judgment, making it more likely for an impaired driver to miss traffic signals or fail to yield.
• Dangerous Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, missing traffic signs, and malfunctioning traffic lights can contribute to T-bone accidents, especially at intersections.
• Vehicle Defects: In some cases, faulty brakes, steering systems, or other vehicle issues can prevent a driver from stopping or maneuvering in time to avoid an accident. If a vehicle defect played a role in the collision, you may be able to hold the manufacturer accountable for your injuries.

Understanding the cause of the accident may impact liability and the type of compensation you could be eligible to pursue.

Common Injuries in T-Bone Collisions

The impact of a T-bone collision can cause a variety of serious injuries, including:

• Head and Neck Injuries: The sudden side-to-side motion in a T-bone accident can cause whiplash or even traumatic brain injuries (TBI), including concussions and skull fractures.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of impact can damage the spinal cord, potentially leading to paralysis, chronic pain, or mobility issues.
• Bone Fractures and Dislocations: Broken bones are common, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis, as these parts of the body often absorb the impact of the collision.
• Internal Organ Damage: The force of the crash can cause internal injuries such as punctured lungs, liver damage, or spleen injuries, which may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening.
• Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, T-bone accident victims may experience lasting emotional effects such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, especially if they have endured a long recovery.

Each injury can lead to extensive medical bills, ongoing rehabilitation costs, and loss of income, which is why obtaining compensation is essential to support a victim’s recovery.

New York Traffic Laws and Liability in T-Bone Accidents

In New York, drivers are required to follow specific traffic laws to ensure safety at intersections and on the road in general. Disregarding these laws, such as running a red light or failing to yield, often establishes clear liability for the accident. However, determining fault in a T-bone accident is sometimes complex, especially if both drivers claim the other was at fault. 

In some cases, third-party liability may also apply. For instance:

• Defective Roads: If a hazardous road condition caused a T-bone accident, the entity responsible for maintaining the road might be liable.
• Traffic Signal Malfunctions: If a faulty traffic light contributed to the accident, the municipality or agency in charge of traffic signal maintenance may bear responsibility. 

An experienced New York T-bone car accident lawyer can investigate your case to identify all liable parties and determine how best to pursue compensation for your injuries. 

How Your Personal Injury Attorney Proves Fault in a Car Accident Case

When you file a claim after a T-bone collision, your lawyer will work to prove that the other driver or another party was responsible for the crash. This often involves:

• Gathering Evidence: Collecting police reports, traffic camera footage, witness statements, and accident reconstruction can help demonstrate how the accident occurred.
• Consulting Experts: Accident reconstruction experts may be consulted to create a clear picture of the events leading up to the collision.
• Examining Traffic Laws: An attorney familiar with New York traffic laws will assess whether a violation—such as failure to yield or distracted driving—led to the accident.

Compensation for T-Bone Accident Injuries in New York

If you’ve been injured in a T-bone accident in New York, you may be entitled to seek compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Current and future medical bills related to the accident, including surgery, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Income: Compensation for lost wages from time missed from work and future lost earning potential if your injuries prevent you from returning to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation if your injuries prevent you from enjoying activities or hobbies you once loved. 

Each case is unique, and compensation will depend on the specifics of your injuries and the impact on your life. Working with an attorney ensures that you understand the full range of compensation available and have a strong advocate to negotiate on your behalf.

How the Car Accident Lawyers at William Mattar Law Offices Can Help

We understand the complex nature of T-bone accident cases at William Mattar Law Offices. Our experienced legal team will:

• Investigate Thoroughly: We will gather evidence, consult experts, and build a compelling case to prove fault and secure compensation.
• Handle All Communication: From dealing with insurance companies to negotiating settlements, we’ll manage every detail, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
• Advocate for Fair Compensation: We understand the toll a T-bone accident can take on your life and are committed to pursuing the maximum compensation you deserve.

Legal Deadlines for Filing a T-Bone Accident Claim in New York

Individuals injured in a T-bone accident have a limited window to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, sets a specific time frame in which legal action must be initiated. 

In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those related to car accidents, is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means that if you were injured in a T-bone accident, you typically have up to three years to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party to pursue compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Every case is unique, though. Sometimes the limitations period can be much shorter. Notice of Claim deadlines can be as short as 90 days. 

Why Filing Promptly Matters

While three years may seem like ample time, the period immediately following an accident is critical for gathering evidence, securing witness statements, and documenting injuries. Over time, important evidence can be lost, witnesses may forget key details, and physical injuries may heal or become less visible, all of which can weaken your claim. 

By beginning the legal process sooner rather than later, you allow your attorney the time needed to build a compelling case on your behalf. Filing a claim as early as possible can also help ensure that all necessary documentation, such as medical records and accident reports, is collected while the information is still fresh and readily available. 

Early action also allows your legal team more time to negotiate with insurance companies, explore settlement options, or prepare for trial if necessary.

Consequences of Missing the Filing Deadline

If you miss the three-year deadline to file a personal injury claim for your car accident, you may lose your right to seek compensation entirely. In most cases, the New York courts will dismiss claims filed after the statute of limitations has expired, meaning you won’t be able to recover damages for the injuries and losses you sustained. 

Additionally, even if you intend to settle out of court, insurance companies are aware of the statute of limitations and may attempt to delay the settlement process. If they sense that time is running out, they may leverage the approaching deadline to pressure you into accepting a lower settlement. 

Acting quickly helps prevent you from being placed in a vulnerable position where you may feel compelled to settle for less than you deserve due to time constraints.

Injured in a New York T-bone Crash? Call William Mattar Law Offices

A T-bone accident can disrupt your life in an instant, leaving you facing physical pain, emotional turmoil, and financial strain. By partnering with a trusted T-bone car accident lawyer at William Mattar Law Offices, you gain an advocate who will stand by you, handle the legal aspects, and help secure the financial support you need to rebuild and move forward. Reach out today to take the first step toward recovery and justice.

We know the New York legal system and are ready to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Call our main office in Williamsville, NY, at 716-444-4444 or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. We are here when you need us most. We also have offices in Syracuse, and Rochester, and our personal injury lawyers can serve clients throughout New York, including Albany, Long Island, Binghamton, Watertown, Plattsburgh, and New York City.

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