A T-bone accident is one of the most dangerous types of car crashes, often resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities. Determining fault in a New Jersey T-bone accident is crucial for protecting your rights and recovering compensation. Establishing which driver violated the rules of the road is the most important step in pursuing a claim. Continue reading to learn more and secure the help of an experienced Middlesex County auto accident attorney today.
What is a T-Bone Accident?
A T-bone accident occurs when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These crashes typically happen at intersections, parking lots, or when one vehicle runs a red light or stop sign.
T-bone collisions are particularly dangerous because the side doors of a vehicle do not offer nearly as much protection as the front or rear. There is very little “crumple zone” to absorb the force of the impact, meaning the full energy of the collision is transferred directly to the occupants. This often results in severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and internal organ damage, making them one of the deadliest types of car accidents.
Who is At Fault for a T-Bone Accident in NJ?
Determining fault in a New Jersey T-bone accident relies on proving negligence, meaning that one driver failed to exercise reasonable care. Investigators, insurance adjusters, and attorneys examine various factors, including police reports, witness statements, accident scene evidence, and traffic light data. The objective is to establish which driver violated a specific traffic law, such as failing to stop at a red light or stop sign, or failing to yield the right-of-way.
Is the Driver Who Hit the Side Always Liable?
The driver whose vehicle strikes the side of the other is not automatically at fault. While this is often the case when the driver runs a red light or stop sign, the driver who was hit can sometimes share or even carry the majority of the liability. For example, if the struck driver made an illegal turn, failed to obey a yield sign, or unexpectedly swerved into the path of another vehicle, they may be found fully or partially negligent.
How Does Comparative Negligence Affect T-Bone Accidents?
New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that multiple parties can be found partially at fault. If a driver is found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, they can still recover damages, but their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of negligence.
Parties who can be found somewhat negligent might include the driver who was struck, a municipality for a malfunctioning traffic light, or even a third-party mechanic if the accident was caused by mechanical failure. This allows multiple parties to share blame depending on their contribution to the collision or its severity.
For more information, consult with an experienced auto accident attorney today.
