Side-impact collisions, often referred to as T-bone accidents, can cause devastating injuries because there is relatively little protection between vehicle occupants and the point of impact. These crashes frequently occur at intersections when a driver runs a red light, fails to yield the right of way, drives distracted, or gets behind the wheel while impaired.
Victims of side impact / T-bone car accidents in Birmingham often face extensive medical treatment, lost income, and a lengthy recovery process. At the same time, insurance claims can quickly become complicated as parties dispute fault and damages. If you or a loved one has been injured, the car accident attorneys at Singleton Schreiber Injury Attorneys can help you understand your legal options, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
How Drivers Cause Side Impact Collisions
Most side impact crashes occur at intersections. A Birmingham driver may run a red light or turn their car into an intersection without the right of way, leading to a T-bone collision. Side impacts also happen when a driver sideswipes by drifting out of their lane or attempts to change lanes without clearance.
Drivers may cause accidents because of:
- Carelessness, such as failing to yield
- Intoxication
- Distraction, such as phone use
- Inexperience with the area or with driving
The collision is likely to have serious consequences for the driver and the occupants of the car that is struck.
Why Do Side Impact Crashes Cause Severe Injuries?
Although modern vehicles offer far better protection than older models, the side of a car still offers less protection than the front or rear. When the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another, the person inside has far less shock absorption and safeguarding against any impact.
Many side-impact crashes are fatal for the drivers and passengers in the impacted vehicle. Crash survivors are likely to live with at least one life-altering physical injury that changes their ability to function. These can include:
- Crush injuries and amputations
- Paralyzing spinal cord fractures
- Complex fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries
For Birmingham families, the aftereffects of a T-bone auto collision can last for years, as spouses, parents, and children adjust to the survivor's long-term recovery needs.
Financial Strain for Survivors
A Birmingham car crash victim can lose months or years of income after a severe side impact accident. Initial recovery can take weeks, and even those who are not permanently disabled may take months to regain all their abilities. Some accident survivors may have to choose a new career or even give up work entirely.
During this time, they may face bills for emergency medical care, ongoing treatments such as surgery, rehabilitation, or physical therapy. Survivors may also require accommodations for reduced mobility, such as walkers, wheelchairs, or home modifications, as well as extra home assistance.
In Alabama, recovering these costs for survivors or bereaved families is often more challenging than it needs to be. State law requires most accident victims to demonstrate they were not at fault in a crash before they can claim compensation. Our experienced injury attorneys could handle your claim safely and avoid an insurer's denials, demands, and pressure.
Call Our Birmingham Team After a T-Bone Auto Wreck
At Singleton Schreiber Injury Attorneys, we bring together legal talent from across the country who understand Alabama's laws, cities, and courts. Side impact / T-bone car accidents in Birmingham can disrupt multiple lives, and you deserve an attorney who can protect your rights.
Let our team hear about your circumstances as soon as you are able. Call our injury lawyers to start your case today.