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Las Vegas T-Bone Accident Lawyer

Were you injured in a side-impact crash in Las Vegas? Trust experienced T-bone accident lawyer Christopher Burk to walk you through what to do next. 

With nearly 20 years of experience protecting the rights of the injured, a track record of success, and a reputation for going up against big name insurers to fight for the little guy, Chris can help you maximize your recovery in your personal injury case.

  • We offer FREE initial consultations.
  • We ONLY represent injured people.
  • We don’t charge upfront attorney fees.
  • You only pay if you win.

Hurt by a Jerk? Better call Burk. 702-620-2020

Understanding T-Bone Accidents in Las Vegas

T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact crashes, are some of the most dangerous motor vehicle collisions that happen in Las Vegas. These types of accidents happen when one vehicle crashes into the side of another vehicle, forming a “T”. Since the sides of cars and trucks are not as well-equipped as the front of a vehicle to absorb the impact of a crash, occupants inside the T-boned car are often severely injured. 

What Causes a T-Bone Accident?

Most T-bone accidents are caused when one driver fails to yield the right of way to another vehicle. These crashes almost always happen in intersections, when the at-fault driver runs a red light or stop sign, enters an unmarked intersection out of turn, proceeds without yielding to a car already in the intersection, or turns left in front of an oncoming vehicle. Sometimes, however, faulty brakes, malfunctioning traffic lights, or poor road conditions contribute to T-bone accidents. 

Who Is Usually At Fault in a T-Bone Accident?

Determining fault in a T-bone accident depends on various factors such as traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and circumstances of the collision. Typically, the driver running a red light, disregarding stop signs, or failing to yield at intersections holds responsibility. However, each case is influenced by factors like speeding, distracted driving, or sudden maneuvers. Investigations, witness statements, and evidence like photos and videos establish liability for the accident.

What Happens to Your Body When You Get T-Boned?

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In a T-bone collision, the impact affects the body in various ways:

  • Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Sudden lateral forces in side-impact crashes can lead to whiplash, causing neck strain or sprain.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries: The abrupt jolt that can happen in a T-bone accident can cause head injuries, ranging from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries.
  • Internal Injuries: The impact may result in severe injuries to internal organs or abdominal trauma due to seatbelt or airbag forces, leading to potentially life-threatening conditions.
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Who Is Responsible for Your Damages After a T-Bone Accident?

Determining liability after a T-bone accident involves examining various factors like traffic laws, driver behavior, and other contributing elements such as vehicle defects or employer responsibilities. Our injury lawyers will investigate your case and consider the following parties when determining who is responsible for your damages after a T-bone accident. 

At-Fault Driver

The primary responsibility for injuries caused by a T-bone accident often lies with the at-fault driver. If a driver breaches traffic laws by running a red light, failing to yield, or disobeying traffic signs, that person typically bears liability for resulting damages and injuries. The driver’s negligence or reckless driving behavior makes him or her accountable for the accident.

Employer

If the at-fault driver was operating a vehicle for work purposes, the driver’s employer might share liability under the legal principle of vicarious liability. This applies when an employee causes a motor vehicle accident while performing work-related duties. If vicarious liability applies, the employer will be partly responsible for your damages.

Rideshare Service

In cases involving rideshare vehicles, liability might extend beyond the driver to the rideshare service, like Uber or Lyft. If the driver was on duty, transporting passengers, or logged into the app and waiting for a ride request at the time of the accident, the rideshare company could share liability for your injuries. 

Vehicle Owner

In scenarios where the vehicle involved in the accident is not owned by the at-fault driver, the vehicle owner might face liability for your losses. This applies if the owner negligently entrusted the vehicle to someone who was unfit or irresponsible, and that driver’s behavior was responsible for causing the accident.

Parts Manufacturer

Sometimes, a T-bone accident can occur due to faulty vehicle parts or defects. If defective components, such as brakes, tires, or airbags malfunction and contribute to a T-bone accident or exacerbates injuries, the manufacturer of the faulty part might be held liable for the victim’s medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How to Establish Negligence in a T-Bone Accident

Proving negligence in a T-bone accident involves demonstrating that the at-fault driver breached the duty of care owed to the victim, resulting in the collision and subsequent damages. Establishing negligence comprises several key elements, each crucial to building a strong case for compensation.

Duty of Care

All drivers on the road owe a duty of care to others. Drivers are required to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly, and obey traffic laws. In a T-bone accident, demonstrating the duty of care might involve showing that the at-fault driver had a responsibility to operate the vehicle safely and avoid causing harm to others.

Breach of Duty

A breach of duty occurs when a driver fails to uphold the responsibility to operate a vehicle safely. Examples include running a red light or failing to yield the right of way. Proving a breach of duty in a T-bone accident involves presenting evidence that the at-fault driver’s actions or inaction directly violated the duty of care.

Causation

Establishing causation is vital in a T-bone accident case. Linking the breach of duty directly to the accident and resulting damages can be tricky, however. It requires showing that the at-fault driver’s actions or negligence directly caused the T-bone collision and subsequent injuries or property damage.

Damages

Evidence of damages resulting from the T-bone accident is critical to proving negligence. Documenting these losses helps establish the impact of the accident and the compensation deserved. Proof of damages can include medical bills, photos of property damage, pay stubs demonstrating lost wages, and evidence of pain and suffering. 

Protect Your Rights After a T-Bone Accident

The steps you take after a T-bone accident can help ensure that your rights are protected. If you suffered injuries in a Las Vegas car accident that was caused by someone else, hiring experienced T-bone accident lawyer Christopher Burk is crucial. Chris has the knowledge and skill to guide you through your path to recovery.  

Reporting Your T-Bone Accident to Law Enforcement

After a T-bone accident, promptly reporting the incident to law enforcement in Las Vegas is crucial. Contacting the police ensures an official record of the collision, aiding in establishing fault and documenting details for insurance claims or legal proceedings. Even in seemingly minor accidents, involving law enforcement helps gather essential information and creates an official report that can be invaluable in determining liability and ensuring a smoother claims process for damages incurred.

Gathering Evidence and Documenting Your Las Vegas T-Bone Accident

Collecting evidence and documenting the scene is essential after a T-bone accident in Las Vegas. Take photographs of the vehicles’ positions, damage, and the overall accident site. Gather witness statements and exchange information with the other involved parties. If possible, record any statements or admissions made by the at-fault driver. These details can support your insurance claim or personal injury case, helping you to establish fault and pursue rightful compensation for damages.

Seeking Medical Attention After Your T-Bone Accident

Following a T-bone accident, seeking immediate medical attention is paramount. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries might not manifest immediately. Visit a healthcare professional promptly to evaluate and document any injuries. This medical record serves as vital evidence for insurance claims or legal proceedings. Additionally, early treatment ensures timely care for injuries, preventing potential complications and establishing a clear link between the accident and any resulting health issues.

Contact T-Bone Accident Lawyer Christopher Burk

Contacting Burk Injury Lawyers after your T-bone accident is one of the best decisions you can make. We’ll listen to your side of the story, explain your legal options, and help get you and your family on the road to recovery.