Side-impact collisions typically refer to car accidents that are either sideswipe accidents (when the sides of both vehicles collide) or T-bone accidents (when one vehicle hits the other vehicle’s side in a perpendicular manner). Many people believe that side-impact collisions are not as dangerous or deadly as head-on collisions or rollovers—however, the sides of vehicles often offer little protection for drivers and passengers alike.
Some vehicles do have side airbags installed, but they are not standard equipment on all vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 700 to 1,000 lives would be saved each year if all vehicles were equipped with side airbags. In the meantime, side-impact collisions continue to cause serious injuries and fatalities.
If you or a loved one were injured in a side-impact collision, a Daytona Beach side-impact collision lawyer can help you seek compensation and ensure that your legal rights are protected. Call our team at Ben Crump Law, PLLC today at (844) 730-0233 to schedule a free consultation.
Determining the Cause of a Side-Impact Collision and Why It Matters
Research published by Injury Epidemiology confirms that the sides of a vehicle offer scant protection compared to the front or back of a vehicle. As a result, when any type of a side-impact collision occurs, victims may suffer catastrophic injuries and losses. Determining the cause of a side-impact collision can help indicate which party is liable for their injuries and losses and if there was any negligence involved.
Some of the causes of side-impact collisions are more egregious and reckless than others, meaning that the court may offer punitive damages depending on the facts and circumstances of the accident.
The causes of a side-impact collision may include:
- Driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs
- Reckless driving (such as road rage, speeding, and/or failing to obey traffic laws)
- Failing to yield the right-of-way to the appropriate driver
- Failing to stop at a red light or stop sign
- Driving while drowsy or fatigued
Additionally, some causes of side-impact collisions are not necessarily the fault of the driver. For example, inclement weather conditions, debris or hazards left on the road by a construction crew or fallen from the back of a truck, or even manufacturing defects in the vehicle can also cause side-impact collisions.
An independent investigation often helps determine the cause of a side-impact collision and which party (or parties) may be liable. This is important because a victim may end up filling a claim against different persons or entities if the driver who caused the accident was under the influence versus operating a vehicle with a manufacturing defect. A Daytona Beach side-impact collisions lawyer can help you identify the cause of your side-impact collision and determine who may be responsible for your injuries and losses. Contact Ben Crump Law, PLLC today to learn more.
For a free legal consultation with a side-impact collisions lawyer serving Daytona Beach, call (844) 730-0233
Side-Impact Collision Injuries
Every car accident has its own unique circumstances, including the injuries that a victim receives. You may have already visited a medical professional regarding your injuries. However, if you have not done so, seeking medical treatment is critical not only for your health but also for your potential ability to build a personal injury case and receive compensation.
Some of the types of injuries that can occur in a side-impact collision include:
- Soft tissue injuries in the neck or back areas, which can lead to whiplash, neck or back sprains, herniated discs, spinal cord injuries, or even paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries, which include everything from concussions to brain bleeds that require surgery
- Broken and/or fractured bones, which may require amputation
- Nerve damage
- Internal bleeding
- Internal organ damage, such as aortic dissection caused by seatbelts or airbags
Daytona Beach Side-Impact Collisions Lawyer Near Me (844) 730-0233
Potential Compensation After a Side-Impact Collision
You have the legal right to pursue compensation for any injuries and losses you suffered as the result of a side-impact collision. While every case is different, there are several types of compensation that may be awarded.
Medical Bills and Related Expenses
Medical bills do not only include doctor visits. Any medical expenses you have incurred may be allowable, including diagnostic imaging, hospitalizations, physical therapy, mental health therapy, medical equipment, medical devices, and even in-home medical care.
Loss of Wages
If you suffered serious injuries, you may not have the physical ability to return to work. Along with your lost wages, you may have the ability to receive compensation for lost bonuses, vacation and sick leave, promotion opportunities, and even pension or employee benefit contributions.
Property Damage
You likely suffered severe property damage to your vehicle. Visiting with a Daytona Beach side-impact collisions lawyer can help you determine if it is a better idea to repair or replace your vehicle and the damaged contents inside and what the compensation value should be.
Non-Economic Losses
The victims of side-impact collisions often suffer many non-economic losses as well, including pain and suffering due to their injuries, loss of enjoyment of life if there are daily tasks or activities they can no longer participate in, or loss of companionship if their loved one died.
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Learn How a Daytona Beach Side-Impact Collisions Lawyer Can Help
Side-impact collisions such as sideswipe or T-bone accidents can cause catastrophic injuries and losses. Thankfully, you have the legal right to pursue compensation from the negligent party that caused your accident.
A Daytona Beach side-impact collisions lawyer can review your case, explain your legal options, and help you determine your next steps. Contact Ben Crump Law, PLLC today at (844) 730-0233 to speak with a member of our team.
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