Side impact car accidents, or T-bone accidents, occur when one car strikes the side of another. In Arlington, these accidents are frequent at intersections and can lead to significant injuries.
The impact can cause harm to passengers and result in substantial vehicle damage. At Patterson Law Group, we understand the emotional and physical toll these accidents can take. We are committed to helping our clients identify the responsible party and secure the necessary support for their recovery.
Common Causes of Side Impact Car Accidents in Arlington
- Failure to Obey Traffic Signals: Ignoring traffic lights and stop signs is a primary cause of side-impact collisions. Such negligence can lead to a vehicle entering an intersection and colliding with the side of another car, often resulting in severe injuries to occupants.
- Distracted Driving: Engaging in activities that divert attention from the road — like texting, eating, or using a GPS — can lead to drivers missing critical traffic signals or failing to notice other vehicles, resulting in side impact crashes.
- Speeding: Exceeding speed limits compromises a driver’s ability to react quickly enough to avoid collisions, particularly in intersection scenarios where such accidents are more likely to occur. Higher speeds also increase the severity of the impact, exacerbating potential injuries.
Understanding and addressing these root causes is crucial for improving road safety and reducing the frequency of side-impact car accidents in Arlington.
If you are injured in a side-impact collision, contact our experienced side-impact car accident attorneys for assistance.
Understanding Arlington’s Laws Regarding Side Impact Collisions and Your Rights
The laws surrounding side impact collisions are designed to protect the rights of those involved and ensure fair compensation for victims. Understanding these laws is key to knowing your rights after an accident.
- Right to Compensation: If you’re involved in a side-impact collision due to another driver’s negligence, you can seek compensation for damages. This includes medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Negligence and Liability: Texas follows a “modified comparative fault” rule, meaning that you can still recover damages if you are partially at fault, as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the accident.
- Statute of Limitations: In Texas, you have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage. You must meet this deadline to avoid the loss of your right to seek legal remedy.
- Reporting the Accident: Texas law requires drivers involved in collisions resulting in injury, death, or significant property damage to report the accident to the police. This report can be crucial in establishing the facts of the case.
By familiarizing yourself with Arlington’s legal framework regarding side impact collisions, you empower yourself with the knowledge to protect your rights and seek justice.
At Patterson Law Group, our experienced side-impact car accident attorneys are here to help with each step of the legal process. We will work to ensure your rights are fully protected after an accident.
Injuries and Damages Caused by Side Impact Car Accidents
Side-impact car accidents are known for their potential to cause significant harm. They can result in a wide range of injuries and damages to those involved.
The nature of these injuries often depends on factors like the speed at the moment of impact, the safety features of the vehicle, and the collision point.
Common injuries from side impact collisions include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The sudden and forceful movement of the head during a side impact collision can cause the brain to move within the skull, potentially leading to TBIs ranging from concussions to more severe brain damage.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The side-to-side motion in a T-bone accident often results in neck injuries, including whiplash, which can cause long-term discomfort and mobility issues.
- Broken Bones: The force exerted during a side impact can easily break bones, especially ribs, arms, and legs, which are more vulnerable in such collisions.
- Internal Injuries: Organ damage and internal bleeding are serious consequences of the force distributed to the body in side impact accidents. These injuries require immediate medical attention and can be life-threatening.
The damages incurred from these accidents can extend beyond immediate physical injuries and require long-term medical care, loss of income, diminished quality of life, and emotional distress. Understanding the full spectrum of potential injuries and damages is crucial for victims seeking compensation after a side-impact car accident.
Steps to Take After a Side Impact Car Accident
Experiencing a side-impact car accident can be shocking and disorienting. However, the steps you take immediately following the incident are crucial for your safety, health, and legal rights.
Here is a helpful guide to follow after being involved in a T-bone collision:
- Check for Injuries: Your priority should be to check yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to get medical assistance.
- Move to Safety: If the accident is minor and there are no serious injuries, move vehicles to the side of the road, if possible, to avoid blocking traffic and further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Call the Police: In Texas, you must report car accidents that result in injury, death, or significant property damage. The police will document the scene and create an official report, which is essential for insurance claims and legal actions.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Be sure to get their name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance policy number.
- Document the Scene: Take photographs of the accident scene, including damage to all vehicles involved, visible injuries, and relevant road conditions or traffic signs. These images can serve as valuable evidence in your insurance claim or lawsuit.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you do not feel hurt, seeing a doctor after an accident is wise. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company immediately. Be honest about the incident, but refrain from admitting fault until all facts are assessed.
- Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney: If you’ve suffered injuries or significant damages, consulting with an attorney specializing in car accidents can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Following these steps can help you effectively manage the aftermath of a side-impact car accident, safeguarding your health and legal interests.
At Patterson Law Group, our Arlington side-impact car accident attorneys are ready to help you navigate the legal complexities and work to ensure you secure the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Patterson Law Group
Choosing the right legal representation after a side-impact car accident can significantly impact the outcome of your case. At Patterson Law Group, we stand out for our dedication to fighting for the rights of accident victims in Arlington and across Texas.
Our firm is built on trust, transparency, and tireless advocacy for those we represent. Here are just a few reasons why Patterson Law Group is the preferred choice for many:
- Experienced Legal Team: Our attorneys bring a wealth of experience in personal injury law, specifically in handling car accident cases. We understand the complexities of these cases and how to navigate them effectively to secure the best possible outcome for our clients.
- Client-Centric Approach: At Patterson Law Group, we prioritize our clients’ well-being above all else. We take the time to understand your unique situation, tailor our strategies to meet your specific needs, and keep you informed every step of the way.
- Proven Track Record: Our firm has a proven history of securing favorable client settlements and verdicts. We’re committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
- No Upfront Costs: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case. This allows you to pursue justice without the burden of upfront legal fees.
- Compassionate Support: Beyond legal representation, we offer compassionate support to our clients throughout the legal process. We understand the emotional and physical toll an accident can take and are here to guide you through your recovery.
At Patterson Law Group, we are not just your attorneys but your advocates, dedicated to restoring your life to its fullest potential after an accident. If you’re seeking a law firm that combines legal excellence with a heartfelt commitment to clients, look no further than Patterson Law Group.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do immediately after a side-impact car accident?
Immediately after a side-impact car accident, check for any injuries and call 911 if medical assistance is needed. Move to safety, report the accident to the police, exchange information with the other driver, document the scene, seek medical attention, notify your insurance company, and consider consulting with a personal injury attorney.
When should I call the police after a car accident in Texas?
In Texas, you must call the police for car accidents that result in injury, death, or significant property damage. The police report can be vital for your insurance claim and any legal matters that may arise.
Is it necessary to see a doctor even if I feel fine?
Yes, it is crucial to seek medical attention even if you do not feel hurt immediately after the accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away.
How soon after the accident should I notify my insurance company?
You should notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Insurance policies often require prompt reporting, which can also help with the timely processing of your claim.
Do I need an attorney for a side-impact car accident claim?
While not every car accident requires legal representation, consulting with an attorney can be beneficial, especially if there are injuries or significant damages. An experienced personal injury attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation.
What makes Patterson Law Group a good choice for my car accident case?
Patterson Law Group offers experienced legal representation, a client-centric approach, a proven track record of favorable outcomes, no upfront costs, and compassionate support throughout the legal process. Their dedication to advocating for accident victims makes them a preferred choice in Texas.
What does it mean to operate on a contingency fee basis?
Operating on a contingency fee basis means you will not owe the attorney any fees unless they win your case. This arrangement allows you to seek legal representation without worrying about upfront costs.
How can I maximize my compensation after a side-impact car accident?
To maximize your compensation, document the accident scene thoroughly, seek immediate medical attention, keep detailed records of all expenses related to the accident, and work with an experienced personal injury attorney who can negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, represent you in court.
Protect Your Rights After a Side Impact Car Accident in Arlington
Knowing your rights and how to proceed after a side-impact car accident is invaluable. With the right steps and legal representation, you can significantly impact the recovery process, both physically and financially.
Patterson Law Group stands ready to guide you through these challenging times with compassion and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Our client-first approach ensures personalized attention and support, making the legal process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
If you’ve been involved in a side-impact car accident in Texas, remember that choosing an experienced and dedicated legal team can make all the difference in your ability to fully recover and move on with your life.
Contact Arlington’s top side-impact car accident lawyers at Patterson Law Group today to schedule a free consultation.
