All types of car accidents have the potential to cause serious, disabling, and even fatal injuries. However, some types of crashes are more likely to cause devastating injuries than others. T-bone accidents are among the most dangerous types of crashes, and unfortunately, they’re all too common in New Orleans.
With its busy intersections and unique street design, the city is infamous for causing T-bone collisions. Because these types of crashes are so damaging to drivers and their passengers, it’s important for victims to get legal representation right away to protect their rights and pursue maximum compensation on their behalf.
If you or someone you love was injured in a T-bone collision, Dudley DeBosier is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
The Devastating Impact of T-Bone Collisions
T-bone collisions occur when one vehicle hits another vehicle directly in its side. At impact, the positioning of the two vehicles forms a “T” shape. These types are of crashes are particularly dangerous due to multiple factors, including:
- Vehicles have less structural protection on their sides than at their fronts and rears.
- Vehicles may be speeding through intersections when these crashes occur, making them more forceful and dangerous.
- When a vehicle is struck directly on its side, it may roll over, which can further endanger its occupants.
People who are involved in T-bone accidents often suffer many types of serious and disabling injuries, such as:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Crushed limbs
- Internal injuries
- Wrongful death
Causes of T-Bone Accidents in New Orleans
Any time two vehicles are driving perpendicular to each other in the same location, there’s a chance a T-bone crash will occur. When these factors are added to the mix, the risk increases significantly:
- Drivers who are unfamiliar with local roads
- Distracted driving, including cell phone usage and tourists looking at local attractions
- Alcohol impairment
- Aggressive driving or failure to yield right-of-way
- Running red lights and stop signs
What to Do After a T-Bone Accident
Because these types of crashes are so damaging to drivers and passengers, it can be difficult for victims to know what to do in the moments, hours, days, and even weeks after they occur. However, taking the right steps is important for protecting your health and right to compensation.
If you’re able to do so, follow these steps as closely as possible after being involved in a T-bone collision:
- Move your vehicle out of the road if possible and call 911.
- Collect evidence such as photos/videos, witness statements, and the accident report.
- Seek medical treatment.
- Inform your own insurance company about the accident.
- Contact a New Orleans T-bone accident lawyer.
Compensation for T-Bone Accident Victims in New Orleans
In addition to suffering severe physical damage, people who are injured in T-bone collisions also frequently incur significant financial damages. And because these crashes are often caused by other drivers’ negligence, injured victims are frequently eligible to file compensation claims against them and their insurers to get money for their crash-related expenses.
If you were hurt in a T-bone collision, you may be eligible to get compensation for:
Special damages:
- Emergency treatment and hospitalization costs
- Ongoing medical needs
- Rehabilitation and therapy services
- Lost wages during recovery
- Diminished earning capacity
General damages:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma and mental anguish
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Because Louisiana is a comparative negligence state, you may be eligible for compensation even if you’re ruled up to 50% at fault for the crash. However, the amount of money you can receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault. So, if you’re ruled 20% at fault for a crash and receive a $10,000 settlement, you would receive $8,000.
However, it’s important to note that fault isn’t always assigned correctly or fairly. Many injured victims are assigned a percentage of fault when their actions didn’t contribute to their crashes whatsoever. Having an experienced New Orleans T-bone accident lawyer on your side from the beginning can ensure fault is assigned fairly, which can help you maximize your compensation.
After a T-Bone Accident, Dudley DeBosier Can Help
Despite these crashes often causing serious injuries and damages, insurance companies are reluctant to pay victims fair compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At Dudley DeBosier, we work hard to build strong cases for our clients that insurance companies can’t ignore or deny.
We do this by:
- Investigating the incident and collecting evidence
- Collaborating with accident reconstruction and medical experts
- Identifying liability and calculating damages
- Handling insurers and fighting for maximum compensation
Contact Dudley DeBosier Today
Don’t wait another day to get the legal representation you deserve if you were injured in a T-bone collision in New Orleans. At Dudley DeBosier, we have the experience and aggressive approach you need to get the money you deserve.
Our consultation is free, and our No Fee Guarantee® means you pay us nothing—no fees, costs, or expenses—unless we get you money. Contact us today to get started.
