The #1 St. Louis T-Bone Accidents

T-bone accidents occur when the side of one vehicle is struck by the front or rear of another car, with the two vehicles forming a “T” shape.

T-bone collisions typically happen at intersections, where one driver fails to yield the right of way or disregards traffic signals such as a red light or stop sign.

A T-bone collision is extremely dangerous, causing significant damage to vehicles and leading to severe injuries for the drivers involved.

Unlike other types of car accidents, T-bone collisions have little protection for the occupants of both vehicles.

The side of a car offers minimal protection compared to the front and rear, where car manufacturers place the most modern safety features.

Newer cars may have side airbags installed along with the front airbags.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), front airbags lower the risk of death in frontal car crashes by 29% to 32%, while side airbags lessen the risk of death in driver-side crashes by 37% — and 52% for drivers of SUVs.

Despite these safety measures, a T-bone car accident can still result in serious injury and fatality.

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) recorded the number of fatal car crashes in Missouri to be 1,057 in 2022 and 990 in 2023.

While MoDOT did not specify which types of car accidents were most prevalent, T-bone collisions are known to be a significant cause of severe injuries and fatalities in Missouri.

T-bone accidents are often the result of at least one driver’s negligence or error.

Common causes of T-bone accidents may include:

• Distracted Driving: A distracted driver can easily miss a stop sign or red light, leading to a T-bone crash.
  • Distractions such as texting, eating, changing music, or focusing on a GPS can all contribute to these accidents.
• Disregarding Traffic Lights and Signs: Running a red light or stop sign dramatically increases the risk of a T-bone car crash.
  • Failing to obey traffic signals can result in severe accidents, property damage, and injuries.
• Aggressive or Reckless Driving: Speeding, swerving, tailgating, honking, and other aggressive or reckless driving behaviors can lead to T-bone car crashes.
  • These actions increase the likelihood of a driver running a red light or stop sign.
• Drunk or Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol and drugs can have severely impaired judgment and reflexes, making them more likely to cause a T-bone wreck.
  • Impaired drivers may also have difficulty judging the distance between their vehicle and other vehicles, increasing the risk of a side-impact collision.
• Fatigue or Drowsy Driving: Tired or sleepy drivers are slow to react and make poor decisions, making them more prone to causing T-bone accidents.
  • Fatigue can also affect a driver’s perception, making it difficult to judge the speed and distance of other vehicles.
• Failure To Yield: Failing to yield the right of way is one of the leading causes of T-bone accidents.
  • Drivers must give way to other vehicles when appropriate, especially at intersections, making turns, and merging into oncoming traffic.
• Not Using Turn Signals: Failure to use turn signals can confuse other drivers and lead to a T-bone collision.
  • It is crucial to signal before making turns or changing lanes.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Storms, rain, snow, fog, and other inclement weather conditions can result in slippery roads and poor visibility, increasing the chances of T-bone accidents.

Intersections are the leading location for T-bone car accidents, as vehicles cross paths from different directions.

They pose a heightened risk for T-bone accidents due to the complexity of traffic flow and the potential for confusion among drivers.

T-bone accident victims often suffer severe injuries that change their lives forever.

The shock from a side-impact collision can cause injuries, resulting in long-term or permanent disabilities.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a T-bone accident, seek medical attention immediately for any injuries and consider speaking with a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options.

Common injuries from T-bone car accidents can include the following.

Head Injuries

Head injuries are common in T-bone car crashes, as the force of impact can cause drivers and passengers to hit their heads on the front or side of the vehicle.

Injuries can include:

• Minor concussions
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

Injuries to the head can have long-lasting effects on a person’s cognitive abilities, memory, motor skills, and overall quality of life.

Neck Injuries

The sudden impact from a T-bone collision can cause drivers and passengers’ heads to jerk violently back and forth, leading to neck injuries.

Neck injuries can include: 

• Soft tissue injuries like whiplash
• Neck sprains and strains
• Herniated discs

These injuries can cause severe pain, numbness, and tingling in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands, making it challenging to perform daily tasks.

Chronic pain and discomfort from neck injuries affect a person’s ability to work or perform daily activities.

Spinal Cord Damage

The spine is a fragile structure, and the force of impact from a T-bone wreck can cause severe spinal cord injuries.

Injuries can include:

• Spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
• Partial or complete paralysis
• Nerve damage

These injuries can result in permanent disabilities and require ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and assistive devices.

Broken Bones

T-bone accidents often result in broken bones due to the force of impact and the lack of protection for passengers.

Common types of fractures from T-bone accidents include:

• Broken ribs
• Arm and leg fractures
• Pelvic fractures

Broken bones can take a long time to heal.

Some cases may require surgery or physical therapy. In severe circumstances, broken bones can lead to permanent disabilities.

Internal Injuries

The blunt force trauma from a T-bone collision can also cause internal injuries.

Injuries can include:

• Internal bleeding
• Damage to internal organs (lungs, liver, spleen)
• Fractured ribs damaging vital organs

Internal injuries are not always apparent immediately after an accident and may require emergency medical care.

Cuts, Bruises, and Lacerations

Flying debris and shattered glass from a T-bone crash can cause cuts, bruises, and lacerations to drivers and passengers.

These injuries may seem minor compared to others on this list but can still lead to scarring, infection, or nerve damage.

While these injuries may heal over time, the emotional toll of these injuries can be long-lasting.

These life-altering injuries can result in substantial physical pain and discomfort, affecting a person’s ability to work, perform daily tasks, and engage in activities they once enjoyed.

Aside from the physical damage, T-bone accidents can also have a significant emotional and psychological impact on victims and their families.

Victims may suffer from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health issues as a result of the traumatic event.

The consequences of T-bone collision injuries extend beyond physical and emotional pain.

Victims may face mounting medical bills, lost wages due to time off work, and the need for ongoing medical treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, or therapy.

These financial burdens can cause significant stress and hardship for victims and their families.

The long-term effects of T-bone accident injuries may require lifestyle changes and adaptations on top of staggering medical expenses, such as modifying a home to accommodate a wheelchair or needing assistance with daily tasks.

Further, vehicle and property damage adds another layer of stress to an already challenging situation.

Navigating the legal aspects of a T-bone accident can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies and proving liability.

A St. Louis T-bone accident lawyer can help victims and their families seek justice and hold responsible parties accountable for their actions.

An experienced car accident attorney specializing in T-bone collisions can assist victims in several ways.

Ways attorneys can assist victims include:

• Determining fault and proving liability
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Representing victims in court
• Pursuing compensation for damages

Determining Fault and Proving Liability

An experienced lawyer will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the T-bone accident to determine fault and prove liability.

This process may involve gathering evidence such as eyewitness testimonies, surveillance footage, and the official police report.

Proving liability is crucial for securing compensation for the victim’s damages.

An expert lawyer can help you establish that the T-bone accident occurred because of the negligence or recklessness of the other driver.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Insurance providers often try to reduce payouts or reject claims altogether, making it critical to have a skilled negotiator.

You may not receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages if you deal with the at-fault driver and their insurance company without legal representation.

A St. Louis T-bone car accident lawyer will advocate for the victim’s rights and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.

Representing Victims in Court

If a fair settlement is unattainable, a skilled car accident lawyer can represent victims and their families in court.

These legal professionals have extensive experience navigating the Missouri court system and can build a solid case to present in front of a judge or jury.

They also use specialized strategies and tactics to argue your case to help victims and their families receive fair support and compensation.

Pursuing Compensation for Damages

Victims of T-bone accidents are entitled to compensation for various damages resulting from the collision.

This reparation includes medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and property damage.

An experienced lawyer will work diligently to pursue maximum compensation on behalf of the victim, easing the financial burden and helping them rebuild their lives.

Choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of a T-bone accident case.

TorHoerman Law’s team of St. Louis car accident lawyers have the expertise and experience to handle these specific types of accidents effectively.

We understand what victims injured in car accidents are going through, and we are dedicated to advocating for adequate compensation.

Expertise and Specialization

Our car accident lawyers have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations governing traffic accidents in Missouri.

We have successfully handled numerous car accident cases and are familiar with the tactics insurance companies may use to avoid paying fair compensation.

Our expertise allows us to handle the legal process efficiently and represent their clients’ interests effectively.

Commitment to Advocacy

Our St. Louis car accident lawyers are committed to advocating for the best interests of our clients.

We provide personalized attention and support to victims and their families throughout every stage of the legal process.

From the initial consultation to the case’s resolution, we prioritize their clients’ well-being and work tirelessly to secure the compensation they deserve.

If you’ve been involved in a T-bone accident in St. Louis, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance.

TorHoerman Law is a reputable law firm with years of experience handling car accident cases.

Our dedicated lawyers can provide you with the guidance and support you need.

We will fight for your rights and help you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact us for a free consultation.

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