Experienced Lawyers for People Injured in Side-Impact Collisions in Winchester, VA

T-bone accidents, which are also known as side-impact collisions, can cause devastating damage and life-altering injuries. These car accidents occur when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another, often at intersections. The limited protection offered by the sides of a vehicle makes occupants especially vulnerable to serious harm. Following a T-bone accident in Winchester or other parts of Virginia, you may have the right to recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

At Parthemos, Curran, Buelow and Polizzi, PLLC, we understand the challenges victims face as they recover from the injuries suffered in serious collisions. Our legal team has more than 120 years of combined experience handling complex personal injury cases and advocating for injured clients. We always work to maximize the compensation that our clients receive after suffering serious injuries in accidents.

The Impact of T-Bone Accidents

These collisions can result in severe damage due to the force of impact and the lack of structural protection on the sides of a vehicle. While modern vehicles may be equipped with side airbags and reinforced doors, these safety measures may not fully protect drivers and passengers from harm.

Injuries that can affect drivers or passengers involved in T-bone collisions include:

  • Head and Brain Injuries: The force of impact can cause occupants to hit their heads against the door, window, or dashboard, leading to concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries.
  • Neck and Spine Injuries: Whiplash, herniated discs, and spinal cord damage are common due to the abrupt movement caused by a side-impact collision.
  • Broken Bones: Fractures in the ribs, arms, legs, or pelvis can occur when the side of the vehicle crumples under the force of impact.
  • Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma may cause damage to internal organs, leading to life-threatening conditions such as internal bleeding.
  • Lacerations and Soft Tissue Damage: Broken glass and metal debris can cause deep cuts, while the force of the crash can result in torn ligaments or muscle injuries.

Many victims of T-bone accidents require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term therapy. Some injuries may lead to permanent disabilities, affecting a victim's ability to work and engage in daily activities.

Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents

Side-impact collisions often occur at intersections, where vehicles cross paths. They are usually the result of negligence, with common causes including:

  • Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: A driver who fails to stop at a traffic signal or who ignores a stop sign may enter an intersection and collide with another vehicle that has the right of way.
  • Failure to Yield: Drivers who do not check to make sure the road is clear when making a left turn or merging into traffic may strike the side of another vehicle.
  • Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or engaging in other distractions can cause a driver to overlook traffic in an intersection.
  • Drunk or Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug impairment affects a driver's judgment and coordination, making it more likely for a driver to misjudge traffic signals or violate right-of-way rules.
  • Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or ice can reduce visibility and road traction, increasing the likelihood of intersection accidents.

Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable

Victims of T-bone accidents have legal options to obtain compensation for their injuries and losses. Virginia follows a fault-based system, meaning that the driver responsible for the accident is liable for the damages suffered by others who were involved. However, proving liability can be challenging, as insurance companies often dispute claims or attempt to shift blame onto the victim.

A successful personal injury claim requires strong evidence, which may include:

  • Police Reports: Official accident reports can establish fault based on witness statements and traffic law violations.
  • Traffic Camera or Dashcam Footage: Video evidence can provide clear proof of how the accident occurred.
  • Witness Testimony: Statements from bystanders or other drivers can support a victim's account of the crash.
  • Accident Reconstruction: Experts can analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, and other factors to determine the cause of the accident.
  • Medical Records: Documenting injuries and treatments helps establish the extent of damages suffered by the victim.

Virginia law addresses contributory negligence in car accidents. If a person is found to be partially responsible for causing an accident, they will be unable to recover compensation for their damages. Because of this strict rule, it is essential to have legal representation while filing a claim and addressing any accusations of shared fault.

Contact Our Winchester, Virginia T-Bone Accident Lawyers

Dealing with a personal injury claim after a serious accident can seem overwhelming, especially in situations where you may also be working to recover from an injury and struggling with financial concerns due to lost wages. At Parthemos, Curran, Buelow and Polizzi, PLLC, we can provide you with dedicated legal representation to make sure you will be fully compensated. Contact us today at 540-662-4222 to schedule a free consultation.

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