T-bone truck accidents are side-impact collisions that leave victims with severe and deadly injuries. It occurs when the front of a large truck crashes into the side of another vehicle. The colliding cars form a “T” shape, hence the name T-bone. This type of accident is common at intersections but can also occur in other road areas.
T-bone accidents occur due to the negligence of the at-fault driver. When this type of accident occurs, occupants sitting on the impact side are vulnerable to fatal injuries. So, if the truck strikes the passenger’s side, they will likely suffer worse injuries than the driver.
If you suffer injuries in a T-bone accident, you are entitled to seek financial compensation. You can file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. But ensure you hire an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer.
Causes of T-bone Truck Accidents in Atlanta
Almost all T-bone accidents in Atlanta are avoidable. It is primarily the result of human error, evidenced by the following:
- Improper turns
- Failure to yield to oncoming traffic at the intersections
- Speeding through traffic light
- Insufficient driver training
- Fatigued truck drivers
- Driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Distracted or reckless driving
- Failure to abide by traffic safety laws
- Defective vehicle parts
- Mechanical failure, etc.
Common Injuries Sustained in a T-Bone Truck Accident
T-bone truck crashes increase the risk of catastrophic injuries or death. Some common injuries sustained include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Injuries resulting in wrongful death
- Burns
- Fractures and broken bones
- Loss of limbs
- Internal organ damage
- Paralysis
- Dismemberment, etc.
If you have sustained any of these injuries in a T-bone truck accident, ensure you get treated. Your medical records are essential evidence in a compensation claim.
Who Is Liable in a T-bone Truck Accident?
Your legal rights and options after a T-bone accident depend on the circumstance of the crash. Before filing a personal injury claim, you must determine the liability of the negligent truck driver. You must prove the following:
- That the truck driver owed you a duty of care
- That the truck driver breached their duty of care
- That the breach led to a T-bone accident
- That you suffered injuries because of the t-bone accident.
Can Other Parties Be Liable for T-Bone Truck Accidents?
While you can pursue claims against the at-fault driver, you can determine whether another party is responsible for the crash. The other parties that may be liable include:
-
The Vehicle Manufacturer
The vehicle manufacturer can share liability where parts of the commercial truck were defective and malfunctioned.
-
The Trucking Company
If the truck driver is responsible for the crash, the truck company can also be held vicariously liable for different conduct. For example, actions such as operating poorly maintained and unsafe vehicles, hiring a dangerous driver, failing to supervise the driver, etc. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you prove the trucking company’s liability.
-
Government Agencies
Some T-bone truck accidents occur due to poorly timed traffic signals or the failure of government agencies to maintain the roads safely. Note that pursuing a claim against a government agency is not the same as suing an individual or trucking company. It is subject to different procedural rules, so get legal representation.
Compensation for a T-Bone Truck Accident
Victims of a T-bone truck accident have the legal right to seek financial compensation for injuries and damages. The compensation received can cover all the costs associated with the injuries suffered.
Getting compensation can be a complicated process. Negligent truck drivers often refuse to accept responsibility for crashes, and insurance companies only aim to limit their liability. This can be a daunting experience, so again, you need an experienced lawyer to fight your case. The damages you can claim include:
- Ongoing or future medical cost
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation
- Burial and funeral expenses, etc.
How an Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help Your Case
Nobody is ever fully prepared to face the aftermath of an accident on their own. This is why you should speak with an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer. If you have been injured or lost a loved one from a T-bone truck crash, we will help you prove liability and navigate the complex legal process.
At Bethune Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling side-impact collision cases. We will help calculate the full extent of your damages and ensure you receive your full and fair compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation.
