A T-bone accident, also known as a side-impact or broadside accident, can be catastrophic due to the angle and speed of the impact. The sides of a motor vehicle offer limited protection to the car’s occupants, often leading to serious injuries. If you get into a T-bone accident, contact our Oakland car accident attorneys for a free consultation.
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What Is a T-Bone Accident?
A T-bone accident is a crash where the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another to form the shape of an uppercase “T.” T-bone accidents occur most often in Oakland at busy intersections, such as International Boulevard and High Street. They can happen when a driver fails to obey road signs and traffic laws at an intersection, such as by running a red light or failing to yield the right-of-way.
Common Causes of T-Bone Collisions
Identifying the cause of a T-bone collision is a primary step toward establishing a legal claim for damages. As California follows a fault-based system, the driver or party determined to be responsible for the crash may be held financially liable for the resulting losses. An attorney can assist in investigating the circumstances of the accident to help identify liable parties and the legal options available to you.
Common causes of T-bone accidents in Oakland include:
- Running red lights
- Rolling through stop signs
- Distracted driving
- Texting and driving
- Driving under the influence
- Drowsy driving
- Failing to yield to others
- Unsafe left-hand turns
- Illegal U-turns
- Traffic light malfunctions
After a T-bone collision, your priority should be seeking immediate medical attention. Once you are able, collecting initial evidence—such as photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and eyewitness contact information—can be vital. Under California’s fault-based system, the injured party typically carries the burden of proving negligence by a ‘preponderance of the evidence’ to establish a right to recovery.
Who Is at Fault in a T-Bone Accident?
Fault for a T-bone accident will generally rest with the driver who was negligent, meaning they failed to act in a reasonable and prudent manner. For example, the at-fault driver may have unsafely or unlawfully entered the intersection.
Determining Liability at Intersections
Identifying the at-fault party in a T-bone collision requires a thorough understanding of California’s right-of-way laws, such as those governing left turns (CVC § 21801) and stop sign intersections (CVC § 21802). If you are able, collecting immediate evidence—including scene photos, video footage, and eyewitness contact information—is vital. Under California’s fault-based system, an injured party carries the burden of proving negligence by a ‘preponderance of the evidence’ to establish their right to seek recovery for related losses.
Why You Need an Oakland Car Accident Attorney
As the victim of a T-bone collision in Oakland, you may have the legal right to seek recovery for specific past and future losses. Because insurance providers may dispute liability or the assessment of a claim, consulting with an attorney can provide a professional evaluation of your legal options and assist in managing the complexities of the claims process.
Proving Fault and Handling Insurance Disputes
An attorney can assist during a T-bone accident case by helping gather evidence, establish fault, and handle communications with insurance companies. If necessary, a lawyer in Oakland can file a lawsuit and represent you in court
Choose a local attorney in Oakland at Jacoby & Meyers for experienced legal representation. Call (510) 616-9169 for a free T-bone accident case review.