Experienced Auto Accident Attorneys in Union County, New Jersey
Side impact auto accidents, also referred to as broadside collisions or T-bone accidents, tend to have more catastrophic effects on the human body than every other type of auto accident. According to the Insurance Information Institute, side-impact collisions resulted in 961 fatalities in 2017. Moreover, the Injury Epidemiology Journal found that rear-seated occupants on the same side of the collision impact were more likely to sustain severe and/or fatal injuries. While the journal’s research indicates that the use of a seat belt can offer great protection to those involved in a side-impact auto accident, the reality is that these accidents are very serious and cause the injuries of thousands of people each year.
Drivers who cause side-impact auto accidents as a result of their inattention, distraction, or intentional malice need to be held accountable for their negligent actions. The State of New Jersey provides that when an accident results in damages greater than what Personal Injury Protection coverage offers, injured victims can file a claim against the negligent party for compensation.
Compensation is Available With the Support of a Qualified Law Firm
Even when a side-impact collision happens at low speeds, the impact can cause serious injuries to all occupants of the struck vehicle. Although modern vehicles have plenty of safety features, side-impact collisions can still have life-altering consequences. If you or someone you love was injured in a side-impact collision, obtaining the legal support of a qualified attorney can ensure fair compensation is secured.
The New Jersey litigators at Smith & Williams Law Firm, LLC are exceptionally qualified in auto accidents, including side-impact collisions. The firm understands that these accidents typically affect rear vehicle occupants in disproportionate amounts. As a result, the firm works tirelessly to ensure all victims of the accident receive the compensation they need to make a healthy recovery. After a side-impact collision, consider contacting Smith & Williams Law Firm, LLC today for a complimentary consultation.
Types of Side Impact Collisions
The New Jersey Department of Transportation states that side-impact accidents can be described as:
- Same Direction Impacts: These collisions occur when one car strikes the side of the other vehicle when traveling alongside it. In most cases, same direction collisions occur when the at-fault driver makes a wrong turn or attempts to change lanes without first checking for other vehicles on the side.
- Right Angle Impacts: Right angle impacts are T-bone accidents, and they occur when one vehicle collides with the side of another car, forming a right angle at the point of impact. Generally, right angle impacts happen at intersections when a negligent driver disregards the stoplight or stop sign and proceeds to drive through the intersection as the vehicle with the right of way traverses.
- Opposite Direction Collisions: These accidents occur when two vehicles traveling in different directions collide when one driver crosses the center line and strikes the side of the other vehicle. Although these collisions are not usually as severe as head-on collisions, they can still cause devastating injuries, such as facial disfigurement, broken collar bones, and traumatic brain injury.
Proving Fault in a Side-Impact Accident
In most side-impact collisions, driver error is the main cause of the accident. Whether the at-fault driver crossed the center divider, was driving while fatigued or was intoxicated at the time of the accident, proving fault is necessary for victims to obtain compensation for their injuries.
Fault can be established by providing sufficient evidence demonstrating the at-fault driver’s negligence, such as: Police reports, Pictures of the scene, Toxicology reports, Video surveillance, and witness testimony.
Still, it is with noting that side-impact accidents can be caused by third parties. For example, when a vehicle’s brakes fail and this results in an accident, the manufacturing company that produced the defective brakes could face liability. In every situation, side-impact accidents demand a full investigation of the facts to determine what party can be held accountable for the victim’s injuries.
Speak to a Qualified Auto Accident Attorney
Every year, many people are affected by the consequences of side-impact auto accidents. In the aftermath of an accident, injured victims could face mounting medical bills, trauma, and even economic hardship. If you or someone you love was injured in a side-impact collision, speak to a qualified attorney who will help you investigate the case. A well-established attorney will ensure fair compensation is recovered from the at-fault party.
Smith & Williams Law Firm, LLC are exceptionally qualified in the field of auto accident cases. All auto accidents can have long-lasting consequences, especially side-impact collisions. To obtain fair compensation, the support of a dependable and qualified attorney is necessary. Consider contacting Smith & Williams Law Firm, LLC today for a free case evaluation.
