A T-bone accident also called a side-impact collision happens when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These crashes are common at intersections, where one driver fails to yield, runs a red light, or makes an unsafe turn.
T-bone crashes can be devastating leading to severe injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, and spinal damage especially for the driver or passengers on the impacted side. Unlike front or rear-end collisions, there’s less structural protection on the sides of most vehicles increasing the risk of serious harm.
If you were injured in a T-bone crash in Michigan, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, proving fault in these accidents can be complex as both drivers may claim they had the right-of-way. At The Clark Law Office, we help accident victims fight for the compensation they deserve.
What Is a T-Bone Car Accident?
A T-bone crash, also known as a side-impact collision, occurs when one vehicle’s front end slams into the broadside of another, creating a T-shaped impact. These accidents are especially dangerous because the sides of vehicles offer less protection compared to the front or rear, making occupants more vulnerable to severe injuries. T-bone crashes most commonly occur at intersections when:
The severity of these accidents depends on speed, vehicle size, and impact location. A high-speed T-bone crash can cause life-threatening injuries or fatalities, especially if the impacted vehicle is smaller.
Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents
T-bone accidents are one of the most dangerous types of crashes, often occurring at intersections when one driver fails to yield or obey traffic signals. These collisions are frequently caused by negligent or reckless driving behaviors. Below is a breakdown of the most common causes of T-bone accidents and why they happen.
T-bone crashes often result in severe injuries due to the direct impact on the vehicle’s side, where there is less structural protection. Next, we’ll discuss the most common injuries sustained in side-impact collisions.
Who Is at Fault in a T-Bone Collision?
Determining fault in a T-bone accident depends on which driver had the legal right of way. In most cases, the driver who failed to yield or disobeyed traffic signals is at fault. However, fault can sometimes be shared or disputed. Below is a breakdown of how fault is determined in different T-bone accident scenarios.
In some cases, insurance companies may try to assign partial blame to both drivers. Michigan follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation can be reduced if you are found partially at fault. If fault is disputed, an experienced Michigan car accident lawyer can help gather the necessary evidence to protect your claim.
Common Injuries in T-Bone Accidents
T-bone collisions often result in severe injuries due to the limited protection on the sides of a vehicle. Unlike front or rear-end crashes, where crumple zones and bumpers absorb impact, side-impact crashes leave occupants more vulnerable to serious harm. Some of the most common injuries in T-bone accidents include:
How to Recover Compensation After a T-Bone Crash
If you’ve been injured in a T-bone accident in Michigan, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Michigan’s No-Fault insurance system covers certain expenses regardless of fault, but in cases of serious injury, you may have the right to sue the at-fault driver for additional damages. The table below outlines the types of compensation available to T-bone accident victims:
FAQs About T-Bone Car Accidents in Michigan
Contact a Michigan T-Bone Collision Lawyer Today
A T-bone accident can leave you with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and an uncertain future. At The Clark Law Office, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be, and we are here to help. Unlike large law firms that treat you like just another case number, we provide personalized legal representation and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Get the help of a trusted car crash attorney on your side.
If you were injured in a side-impact crash, don’t let the insurance companies dictate your future. We handle everything—from filing your claim to negotiating with insurers and taking your case to court if necessary. Best of all, you pay nothing unless we win your case. Call us today at (517) 347-6900 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. Let us fight for you while you focus on recovery!
Discover how side-impact crashes compare to other collision types in our guide to common car accidents.