Side-impact car accidents occur when one vehicle collides head-on with the side of another. Compared to the front and rear of most cars, the doors and side paneling of many vehicles lack certain safety features. This leaves drivers and passengers with little physical protection against T-bone crashes.
Following any kind of car crash, your first priority should be seeking appropriate medical care for any injuries you sustained. After receiving initial treatment, you should consider contacting a Fort Mill side-impact car accident lawyer. A seasoned auto wreck attorney at Schiller & Hamilton could work with you to file a personal injury claim and recover financial compensation.
Who Could Be Liable for a T-Bone Crash in Fort Mill?
Side-impact collisions often occur at busy intersections. However, they can also take place on highways if one car suddenly swerves or turns into another driver’s lane. As such, there are many potentially liable parties depending on the circumstances of the crash.
Anyone who violates a traffic law, engages in reckless driving, or otherwise breaches the duty of care they owe to other drivers could be liable for causing an accident. Although, it is important to note that the driver who strikes the side of another car is not always the one who bears primary fault for the accident.
For example, a motorist who runs a red light may be liable if they hit another driver who was following traffic law. Conversely, an individual who unexpectedly turns in front of another car could be at fault for causing a collision even though they were T-boned.
It is also possible for an injured party to be found partially liable for causing their accident. Working with a skilled attorney who focuses on side-impact collisions could be critical both to proving the liability of another party and disproving allegations of partial fault.
Recoverable Damages Following a Side-Impact Car Accident
Side-impact car crashes can cause numerous types of injuries, ranging from minor scratches and bruises to deep lacerations, broken bones, and internal organ damage. Those involved in T-bone crashes may also experience paralysis due to brain or spine damage. Plaintiffs who are successful at proving liability could recover damages for both past and future medical bills, equipment, and other expenses related to their injuries.
However, medical expenses are not the only damages an injured party may recover. In addition to other economic losses such as missed work wages and vehicle repair or replacement costs, a plaintiff could seek non-economic damages. These losses may include loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment of life, the effects of a permanent disability, and physical pain and suffering
Injured parties who are found partially liable for the accident may have their damages award reduced by the percentage of fault they bear. If they are found more than 50 percent liable, the plaintiff may be completely barred from recovery. A dedicated local attorney could help an injured party recover the damages they may need after a side-impact collision.
Consider Working with a Fort Mill Side-Impact Car Accident Attorney
Whether a side-impact accident results in minor injuries or life-altering disability, anyone injured as a result of such an incident should consider their legal options. Civil recovery could help injured parties gain some financial stability after their accident.
A Fort Mill side-impact car accident lawyer could provide customized legal guidance and compassionate emotional support throughout your case. Call today to schedule a consultation about your potential claim.