What Is a Broadside Collision?

A broadside collision, also known as a side-impact or T-bone collision, occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another vehicle. These types of accidents can be incredibly dangerous and often result in serious injuries or even fatalities. 

If you suffered injuries in a broadside and believe someone else was to blame, never wait to speak with an experienced Glendale car accident lawyer about your legal options. 

What Does it Mean When a Car Is Broadsided?

When a car is T-boned, the force of the impact is concentrated on the side of the vehicle, which can have devastating effects. The consequences of these side-impact collisions can include:

• Severe injuries: These injuries can require extensive medical treatment and long-term care.
• Vehicle damage: The impact can cause the doors, windows, and other structural elements to become deformed or completely crumpled. 
• Secondary collisions: For example, if a car is broadsided at an intersection, it may be pushed into oncoming traffic, leading to additional impacts and injuries.
• Emotional trauma: The emotional impact of a broadside collision can manifest as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other psychological disorders.
• Financial burdens: Medical bills, vehicle repairs or replacement costs, and the potential loss of income due to injuries can place a heavy financial strain on the individuals involved.

If you have been in a broadside collision, seek medical attention immediately, even if you do not initially feel any pain or discomfort. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and prompt medical evaluation can ensure early detection and proper treatment. 

What Is an Example of a Broadside Collision?

Imagine that you are waiting patiently at a red light, resisting the temptation to look at your phone and become distracted. The light turns green, so you proceed forward through the intersection, as you have the right-of-way. 

Suddenly, another vehicle slams into the driver’s side of your car, sending your car spinning in the intersection, hitting another vehicle. While you are in pain and confused at the scene, you later learn that the driver hit you because they ran their red light. 

This is a highly common scenario in broadside collisions. Law enforcement officers might cite the driver for running the light or they might even arrest them for reckless driving. However, the penalties for such allegations will not help cover your medical bills and other losses. 

You need to take action separately from any traffic or criminal charges the driver faces. You should consult a Glendale car accident lawyer to discuss your car accident claim. 

Where Do Broadside Collisions Usually Occur?

Broadside collisions can happen anywhere, but certain locations are more prone to them. Some common areas where T-bone auto accidents occur include:

• Intersections: Intersections are particularly hazardous due to the increased number of vehicles crossing paths. Drivers may run red lights or fail to yield the right-of-way, leading to broadside collisions.
• Parking lots: Parking lots can present unique challenges, such as limited visibility and distracted drivers. In crowded parking lots, drivers may move through lanes or parking spaces without properly checking for oncoming vehicles.
• Highways and busy roads: Speeding and sudden lane changes on highways and busy roads may result in broadside collisions. These accidents often occur when drivers fail to merge safely or change lanes without signaling.
• Construction zones: Construction zones often have changing traffic patterns and narrower lanes, making them more prone to accidents. Drivers may become confused or fail to notice a stopped vehicle ahead, leading to a broadside collision.
• Rural roads: Rural roads are not exempt from broadside collisions. Negligent driving behaviors such as running stop signs or failing to yield can still result in dangerous side-impact crashes.

While these are some examples, keep in mind that broadside collisions can happen anywhere, at any time. Often, you do not see the other vehicle coming before it hits you, which means you have no time to brace yourself. 

The Sides of Vehicles Have Little Protection

Unlike the front or rear of a vehicle, the sides have much less protection and are vulnerable to impact. With only doors and windows to absorb the force of a collision, occupants on the side of the vehicle are at a higher risk of injury.

In a broadside crash, the impact can directly hit the driver or passenger, causing serious injuries such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or head trauma. In some cases, these injuries can be fatal.

That’s why it’s so important to have an experienced attorney on your side if you’ve been involved in a broadside crash. They can help you recover compensation for serious injuries.  

Broadside Collision FAQs

As Glendale car accident lawyers, here are ten frequently asked questions we hear about broadside collisions:

Q: What is the main cause of broadside collisions? 

A: The primary cause of broadside collisions is driver negligence, such as running red lights, failing to yield the right-of-way, or distracted driving.

Q: Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault for a broadside collision? 

A: In states with comparative negligence laws, you may still be eligible to recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. The amount of compensation awarded will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Q: Should I hire a lawyer after a broadside collision? 

A: It is advisable to consult with a lawyer experienced in personal injury law. They can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Q: How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a broadside collision? 

A: The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit varies by state. In Arizona, the general statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident.

Call a Glendale Auto Accident Lawyer for Assistance

The Law Offices of John Phebus is here to provide you with the guidance and support you need after a broadside collision. To set up a free legal consultation so we can review your case, contact us right away.

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Daniel Hall

1 month ago

The Law Offices of John Phebus, and in particular my Lawyer Roland Rillos are a Very trustworthy and capable law firm. It’s never pleasant to need a lawyer – but I would highly recommend Roland. He was informative every step of the way, always available, and very upfront about costs. Their payment options made it very affordable. If you need legal help I highly recommend them

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