Side-impact collisions, also known as “t-bone” accidents, occur when a vehicle is struck on its side by another vehicle. These particular types of collisions may lead to frightening physical injuries and exorbitant medical bills. Although many vehicles are now designed with enhanced safety measures such as reinforced side doors and upgraded side airbags, the odds remain high that a person may suffer serious injuries after being involved in such a collision. Depending on the circumstances, though, either driver could be deemed at fault for a side-impact car crash, including the driver who was broadsided. Speak with a skilled Wheaton side-impact car accident lawyer today for professional assistance in your pursuit of compensation for your injuries and losses.
The ensuing days, weeks, and months following a car accident could be confusing and frustrating, especially when dealing with insurance companies looking out for their best interests rather than your own. Fortunately, a dedicated car accident attorney could help level the playing field back in your favor. Schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
What to Do After a Side-Impact Crash in Wheaton
Many aspects of a side-impact crash are generally the same as other car accidents. Involved parties are required by law to call the police, who subsequently file a police report and may make preliminary determinations on who may be at fault.
In the meantime, a person may want to obtain contact information from those who were at the scene of the accident and take pictures of the damages. To answer any questions regarding traffic lights, it may prove beneficial to note the time of the accident as well. Finally, after seeking any necessary medical treatment, an injured person should get in touch with a Wheaton side-impact car accident attorney to review their legal options for recovery.
The Role of Liability in Side-Impact Car Accidents
Accident liability may be relatively obvious in some cases, and the other driver may even admit fault without a fight. In many t-bone situations, however, other drivers claim they had the right of way and try to shift fault away from themselves. This is where legal proceedings can get complicated.
The Illinois Motor Vehicle Code includes many provisions that deal with side-impact car accidents. If the defendant violated any of these provisions, they may be held liable for any actions that qualify as legal negligence.
A common complication in side-impact collisions comes in the form of defective parts. For instance, the driver who initiated the crash may have run a red light because their brakes malfunctioned. In circumstances such as these, it may be appropriate to name the manufacturer or mechanic responsible for that malfunction as a defendant in a civil suit, as they may bear some degree of liability for the accident.
Seeking Compensation for Damages
The amount of compensation an injured person may receive for a side-impact collision can depend on several factors. Injured individuals often suffer a number of losses beyond the need for medical care, such as loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment of life, and pain and suffering, also known as non-economic damages. If the plaintiff has strong evidence showing that the defendant was at-fault for the side-impact collision, then they may pursue compensation for all their physical, psychological, and financial injuries.
If the injured person has suffered extensive injuries, the compensation amount a side-impact car crash lawyer in Wheaton could recover on their behalf may be higher than that of someone who suffered a fracture or laceration. This is because severe injuries may require lengthy hospital stays, occupational and physical therapy, and lost wages.
Working with a Wheaton Side-Impact Car Accident Attorney
The devastation of a car crash could result in a number of physical and emotional injuries. Furthermore, it may compromise your ability to earn money and provide for their family.
In cases like these, it may be wise to consult with a Wheaton side-impact car accident lawyer who could discuss every legal option and avenue available to you. Call today to schedule an initial consultation and see what could be possible in your case.