If you get involved in a side-impact car accident, it is important to understand your rights and legal options. The other driver involved may have to pay for your damages and losses under Colorado’s fault-based car insurance law. Work with a skilled car accident lawyer in Denver for assistance in seeking the case results you need and deserve.
What Is a Side-Impact Accident?
A side-impact accident occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. It is also referred to as a broadside or T-bone accident because the two vehicles form the shape of a “T.” These accidents can be severe since the point of impact is close to where the driver or passenger of a vehicle sits. There is no crumple zone to act as a barrier between the vehicle’s occupants and the force of impact.
Common Injuries From Side-Impact Accidents
Side-impact or broadside accidents can be catastrophic in the amount of damage they inflict on those involved. They have a high risk of injury, especially for the passengers sitting on the side of the car struck. If there is speeding involved or a significant size difference between the two vehicles, this can also increase the level of damage.
These injuries can lead to expensive medical costs, pain, suffering, lost wages and property damage. T-bone accidents can also be deadly for one or more people involved. If you lose a loved one in a fatal side-impact crash in Denver, you may be eligible for financial compensation through a wrongful death claim.
What Causes Side-Impact Accidents in Denver?
Side-impact collisions are often traced back to driver error. They frequently take place in intersections when one driver is careless, reckless or breaks a traffic law.
Common reasons for these accidents include:
Running a red light or stop sign
Trying to “beat” the yellow light
Speeding or racing
Failing to yield the right-of-way
Making an unsafe turn or lane change
Distracted driving or cell phone use
Driving while drowsy
Driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol
If a driver is negligent, or fails to act with proper care, he or she can be held responsible for causing a related T-bone accident.
Proving Fault for a Side-Impact Accident in Denver
The responsible party in a side-impact accident is typically the driver who acted negligently or broke a traffic law. If you are the plaintiff in a T-bone accident claim, you must prove that the other driver is at fault using evidence.
Evidence may include a police accident report, eyewitness statements, photographs or camera footage, physical evidence from the scene, your medical records, and expert testimony. A lawyer can help you gather evidence to prove your case and maximize your financial recovery.
How Can a Denver Side-Impact Accident Lawyer Help?
Side-impact accidents can change lives. If you get injured or lose a loved one in this type of crash in Denver, protect yourself by hiring a car accident lawyer. Your lawyer can advocate for you during insurance settlement negotiations or bring your case to trial, if necessary, for a case outcome that can help you move forward with confidence. Begin your case with a free evaluation with a local lawyer. Contact Dormer Harpring.