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How to Prove Fault in a T-Bone Collision


T-bone collisions occur when one car’s front fender slams into the side of another vehicle Also called “side impact collisions,” these are one of the most serious accidents we see. Victims often suffer head injuries, chest injuries, and whiplash. Many motorists die in these crashes.

To receive compensation, you will need to prove fault, which sounds easier than it is. As often happens, the other driver blames you, but you are convinced they are to blame. What evidence will prove critical for your case? Our car accident attorney provides an overview of how to analyze these cases.

Myth: The Driver Who Hits the Other Car is Always at Fault

This is definitely an urban myth. We wish it were this easy. However, it could be that the car which got struck was at fault. We need to look at the facts.

Most T-bone collisions happen at four-way intersections. A motorist with a red light refuses to stop, so they crash into the car that had the right of way. But either car could have run the red light. The car which got hit could have had the right of way, or it could have run a red light and been hit by a motorist who had a green light. We need to review all evidence to determine who really had the right of way.

Important Evidence for T-Bone Collisions

At Tehrani Law Group, we will help review all evidence of the collision, such as:

  • Your testimony. You saw the accident, so you can report whether you had a green light when you passed through the intersection.
  • Other witness testimony. Important witnesses include anyone who was a passenger in your car, as well as other motorists on the road. They can speak authoritatively about who is at fault.
  • Dash cam footage. One or more vehicles might be outfitted with dash cams, which could have captured the accident.
  • Surveillance video. There might be video surveillance from a nearby business or possibly even a town surveillance video on a telephone pole. Your attorney can search for this evidence.

Physical evidence is of limited use. After all, we know one car hit the other, but that doesn’t determine fault. Instead, we need to know who had the right of way and who refused to yield. Physical evidence rarely explains that.

Disputes Can Lead to Lawsuits

In an ordinary car accident, the insurance companies review all evidence and reach an agreement on critical issues like fault. But sometimes they can’t agree. The insurance company representing the other driver might be convinced you ran a red light even though you were hit.

In that case, you might have to go to court. Where insurance companies disagree, the only resolution is found by filing a lawsuit and presenting evidence to a jury, which ultimately will determine fault.

Contact Our Connecticut Car Accident Lawyer

Tehrani Law Group has negotiated settlements for many T-bone wrecks and obtained meaningful compensation for clients. We know how to sift through the evidence and then present our case in a convincing way. Contact us to discuss your collision and what evidence you know is available.