Who Is at Fault in a T-Bone Accident in Colorado?

T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, occur when one vehicle strikes the side of another at a perpendicular angle, forming a “T” shape. These collisions are often catastrophic, leading to severe injuries, significant property damage, and complex questions about fault. Determining who is at fault in a T-bone accident is crucial for victims seeking compensation for their losses.

At Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C., we understand how challenging being in a T-bone car accident can be. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate Colorado’s legal system, determine liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents

Most T-bone accidents happen at intersections, where drivers must adhere to traffic signals, signs, and right-of-way rules. Some of the most common causes of T-bone accidents include:

• Running a red light or stop sign;
• Failing to yield at an intersection;
• Distracted driving, such as texting or using a cell phone;
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; and
• Poor weather conditions, including ice or rain.

Understanding the cause of the accident is critical to establishing whose fault it is when a car T-boned you. Evidence collected at the scene can help clarify the events leading up to the crash.

Determining Fault in a T-Bone Accident

Determining fault in a T-bone accident requires a thorough analysis of the circumstances surrounding the collision. Colorado law focuses on negligence, which requires proving that one party failed to exercise reasonable care, directly leading to the accident.

Evidence that can help establish fault includes:

• Traffic law and right-of-way violations, such as running a red light;
• Witness statements from individuals who saw the accident occur;
• Photos and videos of the accident scene, including skid marks, vehicle positions, and traffic signals; and
• A Police report documenting the crash and including the officer’s opinion on who is at fault.

In some cases, liability is shared between parties under Colorado’s comparative negligence rule, which assigns fault as a percentage. If you are less than 50% at fault, you can still recover compensation, but your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

If You Get T-Boned, Who Is at Fault?

Liability in a T-bone accident often depends on the circumstances leading to the crash. Many victims wonder, Whose fault is it when a car T-boned you? The answer typically lies in identifying traffic law violations. For instance, if the striking driver ran a red light or stop sign and collided with the side of another vehicle, they are usually deemed at fault. However, some situations complicate the determination of liability.

If the other driver turned left without yielding to oncoming traffic, they might share or bear full responsibility for the accident. Additionally, external factors like malfunctioning traffic lights, poorly marked intersections, or hazardous road conditions could shift liability to a third party, such as a government entity or maintenance contractor.

Determining fault requires careful analysis of evidence, including traffic laws, police reports, and witness statements. A qualified attorney can help navigate these complexities, ensuring liability is accurately assigned, and victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Steps to Take After Getting in a T-Bone Accident

After a T-bone accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal case. Here’s what you should do:

• Seek medical attention immediately to address any injuries and create a record of your condition;
• Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries;
• Collect contact information from witnesses and the other driver;
• File a police report and request a copy for your records; and
• Avoid discussing fault with the other driver or their insurance company until you’ve spoken with an attorney.

Finally, call Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C. to see how our team can help.

How a Lawyer Can Help with a Side Impact Car Accident Case

Dealing with the aftermath of a side-impact car accident can be overwhelming, especially when injuries, medical bills, and insurance claims add stress to an already difficult situation. An experienced attorney like a member of our team can provide invaluable assistance by handling the legal complexities of your case.

We can investigate the accident to determine fault by gathering crucial evidence such as traffic camera footage, police reports, and witness testimony. We will also work to reconstruct the crash, if necessary, to identify the events leading up to the collision. This comprehensive approach helps ensure that all liable parties are held accountable.

Additionally, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts in side-impact collision cases. We will negotiate on your behalf to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage. If negotiations fail, we can represent you in court, advocating for your rights and ensuring your voice is heard.

Compensation Available for T-Bone Accident Victims

Victims of T-bone accidents often face substantial financial and emotional hardships. At Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C., we can help victims seek compensation for a wide range of damages, including:

• Medical expenses,
• Lost wages,
• Pain and suffering, and
• Vehicle repair or replacement costs to address property damage.

In Colorado, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the incident. However, for tort actions involving bodily injury or property damage arising from the use or operation of a motor vehicle, the statute of limitations extends to three years. One of our experienced attorneys can help you navigate these deadlines to ensure you don’t lose your right to compensation.

Why Choose Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C.?

At Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C., we have a proven track record of successfully representing clients involved in T-Bone accidents. With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our team has recovered over $230 million for injury victims.

We pride ourselves on providing personalized attention to every client. We take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our approach to achieve the best possible outcome for you. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or advocating for you in court, we are dedicated to securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

Get Help After Your T-Bone Accident

If you’ve been injured in a T-bone accident, understanding who is at fault in a T-bone accident is key to pursuing the compensation you need to recover. At Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C., our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how our experienced attorneys can assist you in seeking justice and rebuilding your life.