Posted on 07/22/24
After any accident, fault must be established so victims can recover the compensation they need. This includes T-bone, or sideswipe, collisions. When a T-bone accident happens in New York, it is not uncommon for individuals to sustain major injuries due to the decrease in the level of protection afforded by the sides of the vehicle. A side-impact crash can occur in a variety of ways, and understanding how a particular incident happened can help establish liability. Sometimes, there may be more than one party at fault for a T-bone crash so employing the help of a Buffalo car accident lawyer that specializes in t-bone crashes is crucial.
Common Causes of T-Bone Collisions in New York
T-bone collisions can occur for various reasons, often due to driver error or negligence. Some of the most common causes of T-bone accidents in New York include:
- Running red lights or stop signs. When a driver doesn’t stop at a red light or stop sign, they can collide with another vehicle that has the right of way through the intersection.
- Failing to yield. Drivers who don’t yield when making left turns or entering traffic from a side street, driveway, or parking lot can cause T-bone collisions with vehicles that have the right of way.
- Distracted driving. Using a cell phone, eating, or some other activity that diverts attention from the road can lead to Buffalo distracted driving collisions, including T-bone collisions.
- Speeding. Driving too fast (not necessarily just above the speed limit, but also too fast for conditions) can make it difficult to stop in time to avoid a collision, especially at intersections.
- Driving under the influence. Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s ability to make sound decisions and react quickly, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Our Buffalo drunk driving accident attorney can hold these negligent drivers accountable and
Determining Fault in a T-Bone Collision
Determining fault in a T-bone accident can be hard, as it depends on the specific circumstances of the crash. Key factors that can help establish liability include:
- Traffic signals and signs. The status of traffic lights and stop signs at the intersection where the accident occurred is crucial. A driver who runs a red light or stop sign is typically at fault.
- Right of way. Understanding which vehicle had the right of way is essential. A driver who fails to yield the right of way is usually found liable for the collision.
- Witness statements. Eyewitnesses can provide good information about how the accident occurred, including which vehicle entered the intersection first or whether a driver was speeding or distracted.
- Police reports. Law enforcement officers at the scene will document their observations and any traffic violations, which can be critical evidence in determining fault.
- Surveillance footage. Video evidence from traffic cameras or nearby businesses can help clarify the events leading up to the collision.
Shared Fault and Comparative Negligence in New York
New York follows a comparative negligence system, which means that more than one party can be found partially at fault for an accident. Under this system, each party’s level of fault is determined as a percentage, and the compensation they receive is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 40% at fault for a T-bone accident, your compensation will be reduced by 40%.
Legal Assistance for T-Bone Accident Victims
If you have been involved in a T-bone accident in New York, it is essential to seek legal help before navigating the complexities of your case. An experienced Buffalo personal injury attorney can:
- Investigate the accident. Your attorney will gather evidence, including law enforcement reports, witness statements, and surveillance video from nearby cameras, to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Negotiate with insurance companies. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A skilled attorney will negotiate aggressively to help you receive fair monetary compensation for your injuries and damages.
- Represent you in court. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may be able to help bring the case to court to seek the compensation you deserve.
T-bone accidents can result in severe injuries, significant property damage, and even death. Determining fault in these collisions involves analyzing various factors, including traffic signals, right of way, and witness statements. In New York, the comparative negligence system allows victims to recover compensation even if they are partially at fault. Working with an experienced Buffalo wrongful death attorney can help ensure that you navigate the legal process effectively and secure the compensation you need to recover from your injuries.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a T-bone accident, contact us for a free consultation. Our team is here to help you understand your rights and options and to guide you through the process of seeking justice and compensation.