Did you know side-impact collisions are among the deadliest car accidents? With minimal protection, these crashes often lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
Car accidents occur daily, but not all accidents are the same. Some are minor fender benders, while others result in permanent physical and emotional harm.
One of the deadliest types of accidents is a side-impact collision, also known as a T-bone accident. These occur when one vehicle collides with the side of another.
Unlike head-on or rear-end accidents, where bumpers and crumple zones absorb the impact, side-impact accidents leave passengers with minimal protection. The consequences can be extremely serious, resulting in serious injury or death.
Side-Impact Collisions: Why They’re More Dangerous Than You Think
New Orleans, famous for its rich history, diverse culture, and congested streets, is no stranger to traffic accidents. With congested intersections and irresponsible drivers, it’s important for every driver to understand the dangers of side-impact accidents.
Those who’ve been involved in a side-impact accident have a lot to deal with. Medical expenses pile up, insurance companies refuse to pay you, and recovering the compensation you deserve isn’t easy.
That’s where a New Orleans side impact collision lawyer can help. This legal professional will be by your side until you win fair compensation for your losses.
Why Side Impact Collisions Are So Dangerous
Most new cars have airbags, crumple zones, and sturdy structures to protect passengers in a head-on or rear-end accident. But in a side-impact accident, there’s little between you and the approaching car.
Here’s why these accidents are more dangerous than you think:
- Less Protection: The sides of a car aren’t as sturdy as the front and rear. While some vehicles have side airbags, they’re not as effective as front airbags in preventing injuries.
- Direct Effect on Passengers: When a car is struck from the side, the force is transferred directly to the driver or passengers, and this increases the likelihood of severe injuries.
- Rollover Danger: Side-impact crashes, particularly with SUVs or trucks, have a high probability of rollovers, which increases the accident’s fatality rate.
Causes of Side Impact Collisions
Here are some of the most common causes of side-impact collisions.
1. Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
Running traffic signals by drivers is one of the biggest causes of T-bone collisions. Whether the driver is impatient, distracted, or reckless, running a red light in an intersection endangers everyone.
2. Distracted Driving
Texting, eating, or playing with the GPS—everywhere, distractions exist. When a driver is distracted, they may ignore another car crossing the road, which results in a side-impact collision.
3. Speeding
Speed limits exist for a reason. A speeding vehicle not only doubles the force of impact but also gives drivers less time to react, and it is harder to stop in time to prevent a collision.
4. Drunk or Impaired Driving
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, slow reaction time, and prevent drivers from obeying traffic laws. Most side-impact collisions are due to impaired or drunk drivers, so they are more deadly.
5. Impaired Visibility and Poor Weather
Heavy rain, fog, or dark roads may prevent drivers from viewing traffic signals, pedestrians, or other cars. When visibility is poor, the chances of a side-impact collision increase.
Injuries from Side Impact Crashes
These crashes often hit the passenger compartment head-on, which can cause serious injuries. Some injuries are:
- Head and Brain Injuries: Despite the deployment of side airbags, the crash can cause concussions, brain damage, and skull fractures.
- Neck and Spinal Injuries: Whiplash, herniated disks, and even paralysis can be caused by the sudden jolt of a side-impact crash.
- Broken Bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis bones are most susceptible to a T-bone crash.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs, bleeding within the body, and punctured lungs are fatal injuries that need instant medical attention.
T-Bone Accidents: The Hidden Dangers of Side-Impact Collisions
Side impact crashes are not just another car crash—they are among the most fatal crashes on the road. Lack of protection, combined with the force of the crash, makes these crashes more likely to cause serious injuries or fatalities.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a T-bone crash, don’t hesitate—act to get the help and compensation you deserve.
Jessi is the creative mind behind The Coffee Mom, a popular blog that combines parenting advice, travel tips, and a love for all things Disney. As a trusted Disney influencer and passionate storyteller, Jessi’s authentic insights and relatable content resonate with readers worldwide.