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T-bone Accident: Who’s at fault?

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Rain or blizzarding conditions can make driving and visibility difficult. In St George, Cedar City and surrounding areas we aren’t strangers to freezing and icy conditions. T-bone accidents are when two vehicles collide perpendicular to each other. These accidents create a terrible devastation and can cause serious injury for the involved parties.When T-bone accidents happen, people automatically want to assign blame and determine who is a fault. We can’t assume that the vehicle who hit the other vehicle is automatically to blame. The question really comes down to who has the right of way. So because one vehicle has the right of way, the other vehicle violates that right of way and a T-bone accident occurs.Typical Reasons T-Bone Accidents Occur

  • Failing to obey street signs or lights – drivers often assume they know what other drivers will do. Speeding through a yellow light, failing to yield to merging or oncoming traffic, running a stop sign, etc. are all ways that accidents can happen. It’s important reckless driving be avoided so people have enough time to get to their destinations and appointments without the need to rush.
  • Distractions – the driver to talking on the phone, texting, eating, or otherwise unable to dedicate full attention to driving.
  • Under the influence – it’s never okay to get behind the wheel of a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Impairment and reaction time are reduced. Even if you are not under the influence of substances, operating a vehicle with little to no sleep can be considered driving impaired.
  • Poor weather – icy roads that prevent stopping, poor visibility, standing water, etc. Go slow, create distance, and be careful.
  • Speeding or aggressive driving – as we’ve said already, drivers need to slow down. Leave early, plan for traffic and avoid weaving in and out of traffic.

What should I do after a T-bone accident?

  • Assess your condition. If you’re okay, check on the well-being of others in your vehicle and assess the passengers of the other vehicle.
  • Report the accident to police. Call emergency services if there are injuries.
  • Collect witness statements to help corroborate the events of the accident. It can often be hard to determine who was at fault. Relying on the testimony of others can help put the events into context.
  • Petition the use of roadside cameras if they are installed in the area of the accident.

In the state of Utah, filing a case for a personal injury accident has a statute of limitations of four years. Meaning, you have four years from the date of the accident to file a case with an attorney.

McMullin Injury Law is well versed in personal injury cases. As residents of St George and Cedar City we are aware of the areas in our community where accidents happen most often. We know what our community needs and we’re driven to help our clients get the care they need following an accident. If you have been involved in a T-bone accident, call us today. We can walk you through your claim and get you started on the path to recovery.