Side-impact, or T-bone, truck crashes happen when an 18-wheeler collides with the side of another vehicle, typically in intersections or during lane changes. These accidents can involve a passenger car crashing into the side of a truck, but when the opposite occurs, it is often the result of the truck driver failing to see the smaller vehicle in their blind spot.
If a smaller car collides with a tractor-trailer, it may lead to an underride scenario. These are among the most deadly types of wrecks on roadways. You have the right to pursue compensation if you were injured because of someone else’s carelessness. You should contact our skilled tractor-trailer wreck attorneys for more information on side-impact truck accidents in Pasadena.
Why Are T-Bone Collisions Often Severe?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, T-bone collisions involving 18-wheelers can be more severe than many other types of crashes because of the immense size difference between commercial trucks and cars, as well as the trucks’ design and other vulnerabilities.
A semitruck can weigh up to 20 or 30 times more than a passenger car. This weight difference means a heavy commercial vehicle transfers a great amount of kinetic energy upon impact and can potentially crush a smaller automobile, even at moderate speeds of 30 to 40 miles per hour. The force of the impact in a collision can deform the smaller vehicle’s frame beyond recognition, resulting in immediate structural failure. These crashes can be deadly, particularly if someone is sitting in the area where the impact occurs.
Lack of Structural Protection on Vehicle Sides
Passenger cars have crumple zones on the front and rear to absorb the energy of crashes. However, the sides, especially where the doors are, offer little to no protection. During a side-impact tractor-trailer collision in Pasadena, the occupant compartment of the smaller vehicle takes the full force of the impact, resulting in severe damage and the rapid intrusion of materials comprising the vehicle’s exterior, including metal and glass, into the cabin. The truck’s high-riding cab and trailer can exacerbate the severity of this situation, particularly when they lack side guards to prevent the car from underriding or sliding partially underneath.
Given the severity of these crashes, it is crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible after an accident.
Establishing Fault for a Side-Impact Truck Collision
If you are seeking compensation after a side-impact truck wreck in Pasadena, it is crucial to determine fault. Unlike those involving other regular passenger cars, these crashes require a strong understanding of federal and state regulations as well as the trucking industry in general. Additionally, the stakes are often higher because the injuries and other damages associated with these crashes are more severe than in other collisions.
Our seasoned lawyers can help establish fault through evidence obtained in a thorough investigation. Examples include proof that the trucker violated their duty of care by neglecting to follow traffic laws and yield the right of way, or by failing to check their blind spots thoroughly before changing lanes.
Damages
The extent of the settlement and damages the court might award depends on the specifics of the case. However, because the injuries and losses in these accidents are often severe, settlements can be significant. You may be compensated for medical bills and ongoing healthcare services, lost pay and earning potential, and pain and suffering.
Our attorneys have experience with side-impact truck accident cases and can help you gather the evidence needed to prove liability and obtain maximum compensation.
Call a Pasadena Attorney About Side-Impact Big Rig Accidents
If a truck operator’s negligence caused you severe injury, you have the right to hold them responsible. Our compassionate lawyers are experienced with side-impact truck accidents in Pasadena and can guide you through each step of the legal process.
A settlement could cover all of your out-of-pocket expenses and non-monetary damages, as well as allow you to hold the liable party accountable. Call our office today to learn more about the process and schedule a consultation.