The light turns green, and you start your left-hand turn through a busy California intersection. Before you make it across, another car slams into the passenger side of your vehicle. Glass shatters. Airbags explode. The terrifying jolt leaves you stunned and instantly worried. Who caused this? And more importantly, who’s going to pay for it?
T-bone accidents, also referred to as side-impact collisions, are among the most dangerous types of car accidents and can involve complex legal issues. This guide explains how fault is determined in a T-bone accident.
What Is a T-Bone Accident?
A T-bone car accident occurs when the front of one vehicle collides with the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These crashes usually happen at intersections and often involve:
- One driver running a red light,
- A failure to yield while making a left-hand turn,
- Speeding through a yellow or stop sign, and
- Distracted or impaired driving.
Due to the exposed nature of a car’s side, these crashes can cause serious injuries, even at lower speeds.
If You Get T-Boned, Who Is at Fault?
Many drivers assume the person who struck the other vehicle is always at fault. However, in T-bone collision cases, liability depends on who has the legal right-of-way. In some situations, the vehicle that was struck may be found at fault. Here are a few common scenarios:
- Left-turn collisions. California requires a driver turning left to yield to oncoming traffic. If the turning driver misjudged speed or ignored a straight-through car, they are likely at fault.
- Red-light or stop sign violations. The red-light runner is usually liable if a driver runs a red light or stop sign and hits another vehicle already crossing.
- Uncontrolled intersections. Both drivers may claim the right of way in less common rural or residential cases. These cases often require witness accounts or surveillance footage.
Put simply, the answer to “In a T-bone accident, who’s at fault?” comes down to road rules, right-of-way, and evidence.
How Is Fault Proven in a T-Bone Crash?
Fault isn’t always obvious after a side-impact crash. Each driver may blame the other, and insurance companies don’t just take your word for it. Instead, they rely on evidence. Strong evidence helps establish liability and increases your chances of recovering compensation.
Types of useful evidence include:
- Traffic or security camera footage;
- Witness statements from bystanders or passengers;
- Dashcam video from either vehicle;
- Police accident reports;
- Vehicle damage patterns consistent with the story; and
- Physical evidence, like skid marks or debris.
A competent car accident lawyer will help you gather, organize, and present this evidence to support your claim.
What If Both Drivers Share Blame?
So, whose fault is it when a car T-boned you, but you were not strictly following the rules of the road at the time of the crash?
California uses a pure comparative negligence system, which means multiple parties can share fault in a crash. If you were partially at fault for the accident, such as speeding slightly while the other driver ran a red light, you can still seek compensation, but the amount you receive will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 and found 20% at fault, your final award would be $80,000. Knowing how this rule works is crucial for understanding the potential value of your compensation claim.
Common Injuries in T-Bone Crashes
The physical trauma of a T-bone car accident is often severe, especially for passengers on the impact side. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from head contact or whiplash;
- Broken ribs, arms, or legs due to intrusion of the side panel;
- Internal bleeding or organ damage;
- Spinal cord injuries from forceful lateral impact; and
- Emotional distress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
These injuries often require long-term treatment and can significantly affect quality of life.
How Do Insurance Companies Determine Fault?
Insurance adjusters examine police reports, statements, damage photos, and other evidence to assign fault. In some cases, they may attempt to place partial blame on the injured driver to reduce payout.
California’s Department of Insurance encourages drivers to review their rights and insurance responsibilities after an accident.
Keep in mind that insurance companies are financially motivated. They often undervalue claims or attempt to settle quickly before the injured person fully understands their losses. This is why having a legal advocate matters.
Can I Recover Damages If I Was T-Boned in California?
Yes. If the other driver was negligent, you can seek compensation for both economic and noneconomic losses, including:
- Medical bills and rehabilitation costs;
- Lost wages and future earning potential;
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress;
- Car repairs or vehicle replacement; and
- Loss of enjoyment of life or activities.
If your loved one died due to a T-bone crash, you may also be eligible to file a wrongful death claim.
Why You Need a Lawyer After a T-Bone Accident
Side-impact collisions can involve complex liability, multiple vehicles, and severe injuries. A qualified car accident attorney can:
- Investigate the accident scene and collect crucial evidence,
- Consult accident reconstruction experts or medical specialists,
- Deal with insurance companies on your behalf,
- File claims within the statute of limitations,
- Negotiate fair settlements or take your case to trial, if needed.
At The Beliz Law Firm, we’ve recovered millions for Californians injured in crashes, including complicated T-bone accident claims. With more than 15 years of experience and a commitment to honest, compassionate legal service, Michael A. Beliz, Esq., leads a team that treats every case with the attention it deserves.
Hit from the Side and Unsure What Comes Next?
You didn’t ask for a wreck to change your life. But now that it has, you deserve answers and help. The Beliz Law Firm helps T-bone crash survivors throughout California fight for compensation, accountability, and peace of mind.
We understand how California law applies to side-impact collisions and how to fight back when the other driver (or their insurer) tries to shift blame. Our bilingual team provides personalized support, clear legal strategy, and fierce advocacy from your first call.
When your life has been sideswiped by someone else’s mistake, let us guide you back on the right path.
Resources
- California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Financial Responsibility and Insurance Requirements, link
- California Courts. California Civil Jury Instructions. CACI 400, link
Michael A. Beliz, Esq., established The Beliz Law Firm in the spring of 2011. Michael has been a practicing attorney since 2006 and worked for two of the most prominent plaintiff’s personal injury law firms in Southern California. He has worked on and handled hundreds of cases as an attorney in all types of personal injury cases, including vehicle accidents, pedestrian accidents and dog bites, and successfully recovered millions of dollars for his clients.
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