Side‑impact crashes — often called T‑bone accidents — are among the most dangerous collisions on California roads. According to the NHTSA, side‑impact collisions account for nearly 25% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S., largely because the sides of vehicles offer far less protection than the front or rear.
If you were hit in a side‑impact collision, here’s what insurance companies don’t want you to know — and how to protect your claim.
Why T‑Bone Accidents Are So Dangerous
Side‑impact crashes cause severe injuries because:
- There is minimal protection between the door and the occupant
- The force of impact is concentrated on one side of the body
- Vehicles often spin or roll after impact
- Children seated in the back are especially vulnerable
The California Office of Traffic Safety reports that intersection‑related crashes — where most T‑bone accidents occur — remain one of the state’s leading causes of severe injury.
Who Is Liable in a California T‑Bone Accident?
Liability depends on who had the right‑of‑way, but insurance companies rarely agree on fault without a fight.
Common causes include:
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Failing to yield while turning left
- Speeding through an intersection
- Distracted driving
- Misjudging oncoming traffic
If you were injured, you may have a claim under California’s negligence laws.
Real‑World Example
A driver turning left in Los Angeles claimed the oncoming vehicle “came out of nowhere.” Traffic‑cam footage later proved the turning driver misjudged the gap and caused the T‑bone collision. Without video, the insurance company would have blamed both drivers.
Why Insurance Companies Fight T‑Bone Claims Harder
Side‑impact crashes often lead to:
- spinal injuries
- pelvic fractures
- traumatic brain injuries
- shoulder and rib damage
- long‑term mobility issues
Because injuries are severe and medical bills are high, insurers immediately look for ways to shift blame.
Expect them to:
- argue you “should have seen the other driver”
- claim you were speeding
- dispute the traffic‑signal timing
- blame poor visibility
- pressure you to accept a low settlement early
If you were hurt, our California Car Accident team can help protect your rights.
Evidence That Wins T‑Bone Accident Cases
The strongest evidence includes:
- traffic‑camera footage
- intersection surveillance
- eyewitness statements
- vehicle black‑box data
- skid‑mark analysis
- damage‑pattern reconstruction
- 911 call recordings
Side‑impact crashes often require accident reconstruction experts, especially when both drivers claim they had the right‑of‑way.
The California DMV also provides guidance on reporting requirements after a collision.
California Deadlines for T‑Bone Accident Claims
California’s statute of limitations is strict:
- 2 years to file a personal injury claim
- 6 months if a government vehicle or agency is involved (California Tort Claims Act)
- 3 years for property damage
You can review the statutory language directly through the California Legislative Information website.
Missing these deadlines can permanently bar your claim.
What to Do Immediately After a T‑Bone Accident
To protect your case:
- Call 911 and request a police report
- Photograph the intersection, traffic lights, and vehicle positions
- Get witness names and phone numbers
- Seek medical care immediately
- Do not give a recorded statement to the insurance company
- Contact a California accident attorney before negotiating
If you need help, visit our Personal Injury page for guidance.
How Infinity Law Group Helps T‑Bone Accident Victims
Our team:
- conducts a full intersection investigation
- secures video footage before it’s deleted
- works with reconstruction experts
- documents long‑term medical needs
- negotiates aggressively with insurers
- prepares every case as if it’s going to trial
This approach consistently leads to higher settlements and faster resolutions.
Learn more About Infinity Law Group.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for my medical bills after a T‑bone accident?
Usually the at‑fault driver’s insurance, but you may also use MedPay or health insurance while your case is pending.
What if both drivers claim they had a green light?
This is extremely common. Video evidence, witness statements, and damage patterns often determine fault.
Can I still recover compensation if I’m partially at fault?
Yes. California follows pure comparative negligence, meaning your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault — not eliminated.
Injured in a California T‑Bone Accident?
You don’t have to fight the insurance company alone.
Infinity Law Group helps accident victims throughout California get the compensation they deserve. Contact us through our Contact Page for a free consultation — we’ll review your case, explain your rights, and protect you from insurance tactics designed to minimize your claim.
