The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that were 9.4 million traffic crashes in 2010. When a vehicle hits another vehicle in transport on its side its categorized as a side impact crash. Side impact collisions pose a safety risk to the driver and the other occupants in the vehicle. It is not uncommon for vehicle occupants to suffer serious injuries in these types of crashes. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, approximately 25 percent of vehicle occupant fatalities are the result of side impact collisions.
If you or a family member has sustained an injury in a Tennessee side impact crash, you may have grounds for legal action. Contact a knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Knoxville today to discuss your legal options.
To learn more about legal claims regarding side impact crashes, complete the contact form on the right.
Causes of Side Impact Collisions
Side impact collisions are also called T-bone accidents or broadside collisions. Typically, these accidents are caused by negligent or inattentive motorists. Most side impact collisions take place at busy intersections. Listed below are some common causes of side impact crashes:
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Disobeying traffic signs or traffic signals
- Failure to yield
- Disregarding no turn on red signs
- Failing to yield to another drivers right-of-way
Injury victims should seek legal counsel immediately after a Knoxville side impact crash. An experienced attorney can inform you on the legal rights available to accident victims. During your consultation, the attorney will advise you on the best course of action to pursue.
To schedule a legal consultation, fill out the Free Case Review form on this page.
Side Impact Crash Injuries
Passenger occupants are at an increased risk for injuries in side impact crashes due to the vehicle design. Motor vehicles have very little space to absorb the force from the collision and shield occupants. The lack of protection on the side of the vehicle can result in injuries to the driver and passengers. Some injuries commonly seen in side impact crashes include:
- Bone fractures
- Whiplash
- Back and neck injuries
- Head injuries
- Lacerations
- Brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Partial or complete paralysis
- Death
Oftentimes, the person sitting at the point of impact will sustain severe injuries since they receive the brunt of the force. Occasionally, when a motor vehicle is hit a high speeds during a side impact crash, the vehicle will rollover or spin out, causing it to collide into other cars or objects.
In 2010, over 1,000 people lost their lives in Tennessee auto accidents, according to the NHTSA.
If you have lost a loved one in side impact crash due to the negligence of another, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
For additional information about filing a wrongful death claim in Tennessee, complete the contact form on this page.
Contact a Side Impact Crash Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a side impact collision, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost earnings and property damage. Contact Greg Coleman Law today to explore your legal options.
The personal injury lawyers at Greg Coleman Law are dedicated to helping injury victims receive the justice that they deserve. The law firm is available to assist individuals with their legal claims in Knoxville and the surrounding areas.
To schedule a free case evaluation, fill out the contact form on this page.
