NYC T-Bone Accident Attorney: What You Need to Know
T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, are among the most dangerous types of car crashes in New York City. These accidents often result in severe injuries or even fatalities due to the direct impact on the side of the vehicle. If you or a loved one has been involved in a T-bone accident, securing the right personal injury representation is essential to ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
What is a T-Bone Accident?
A NYC T-bone accident can occur when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These accidents typically happen at intersections, where one driver fails to yield the right of way or runs a red light. The severity of T-bone accidents can vary depending on several factors:
- Speed of the vehicles involved
- Location of impact on the vehicle
- Size and weight of the vehicles
- Use of safety features like airbags and seatbelts
Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents in NYC
A NYC T-bone accident can be caused by various factors, often related to driver negligence or traffic violations. Here are some common causes:
- Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: One of the most common causes of T-bone accidents is a driver running a red light or stop sign, colliding with a vehicle that has the right of way.
- Failure to Yield: When a driver fails to yield the right of way at an intersection, it can result in a T-bone collision.
- Distracted Driving: Using a cellphone, eating, or other distractions can cause a driver to miss a traffic signal, leading to a side-impact collision.
- Speeding: High speeds can reduce reaction time, making it difficult for a driver to avoid a collision at an intersection.
- Drunk or Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drugs can impair a driver’s judgment, leading to traffic violations and accidents.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in a NYC T-Bone Accident
The injuries sustained in a T-bone accident can be severe due to the lack of protection on the side of the vehicle. Common injuries include:
- Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are common in T-bone accidents, especially if the victim’s head strikes the window or door.
- Neck and Spine Injuries: Whiplash and spinal cord injuries can result from the sudden impact.
- Fractures: Broken bones, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs, are common due to the force of the collision.
- Internal Injuries: The force of the impact can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs.
- Lacerations and Bruising: Glass shards and debris can cause cuts and bruises, particularly to the face and arms.
Steps to Take After a NYC T-Bone Accident
If you are involved in a T-bone accident in New York City, taking the right steps immediately after the incident can protect your rights and help your case:
- Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance for anyone injured.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any traffic signals or signs.
- Exchange Information: Obtain contact and insurance information from the other driver(s) involved.
- Speak to Witnesses: Gather contact details from any witnesses who saw the accident.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s essential to get a medical evaluation, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Contact an Attorney: A skilled NYC T-bone accident attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue compensation.
Resources for NYC T-Bone Accident Victims
If you’ve been involved in a T-bone accident in NYC, these resources can provide additional support and information:
| Resource | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| NYC Department of Transportation | Traffic safety resources and accident reporting guidelines | NYC DOT |
| New York State DMV | Information on reporting accidents and obtaining accident reports | NYS DMV |
| National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | Data and research on vehicle safety and accident prevention | NHTSA |
| New York City Police Department | Filing police reports and accessing accident reports | NYPD |
NYC T-Bone Accident FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about T-bone accidents in New York City:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What should I do if the other driver is uninsured? | You may still be able to recover compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage or by filing a lawsuit. |
| How long do I have to file a claim? | In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically three years from the date of the accident. |
| Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault? | Yes, New York follows a comparative negligence rule, which allows you to recover damages even if you were partially at fault. |
| What types of damages can I recover? | You may be eligible to recover economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering). |
Why You Need a Skilled NYC T-Bone Accident Attorney
Handling a T-bone accident case in New York City requires an in-depth understanding of local traffic laws, accident reconstruction, and the ability to negotiate with insurance companies. Here’s why hiring an experienced NYC T-bone accident attorney is essential:
- Expert Legal Guidance: An experienced attorney will manage the legal process on your behalf, ensuring all necessary documentation is filed correctly and on time.
- Accurate Damage Assessment: Your attorney will work with medical professionals and accident reconstruction experts to assess the full extent of your injuries and damages, helping you pursue fair compensation.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A skilled attorney will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Court Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will represent you in court to fight for your rights.
Why Choose Michael J. Redenburg for Your NYC T-Bone Accident Case?
At the Law Office of Michael J. Redenburg, Esq. P.C., we understand the devastating impact a T-bone accident can have on your life. Our dedicated team of attorneys has years of experience handling T-bone accident cases in New York City, and we are committed to securing the best possible outcome for our clients.
Why Choose Michael J. Redenburg?
- Proven Track Record: We have successfully recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
- Personalized Attention: We treat every case with the care and attention it deserves, ensuring that our clients are well-informed and supported throughout the legal process.
- No Upfront Fees: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Successful Settlement for Fractured Wrist Injury in 2020
Case Summary:
In 2018 we were retained by LaSaun J. after he was struck by a motor vehicle that subsequently left the scene of the accident. At the time of the accident, LaSaun was in the course of his employment, working for a company that picked-up and dropped off commercial trucks, and traveling from Pennsylvania back to NY. It was early in the morning, and LaSaun stopped at a diner in Brooklyn on Linden Blvd, at or near its intersection with Amber Street, to grab a bite to eat. After leaving the diner and getting back into the box truck he was transporting, he was accosted by three individuals, one of whom was wielding a weapon. Fearing for his life, LaSaun exited the driver’s side of the box truck and was struck by an oncoming vehicle, which fled.
When LaSaun first came to our office, his right arm was hard-casted from his right-wrist all the way up, past his elbow. He sustained a non-displaced fractured wrist, no surgery necessary. His employer stopped contacting him and he needed help obtaining medical treatment and applying for lost wage benefits. First, we got him set up for treatment once the cast was removed. We also immediately contacted his auto insurance carrier so that he could make a claim for lost wages against his own auto insurance policy. Thereafter, we filed for arbitration before the American Arbitration Association, sometimes referred to as AAA, to obtain compensation from his employer’s commercial policy of insurance with Nationwide, for the pain and suffering he endured.
Case Outcome:
Initially, Nationwide took the position that there would be no coverage afforded to LaSaun because he was not “vehicle oriented” when he was struck by the car that fled the scene after striking him. We briefed the issue and posited that he was indeed “vehicle oriented” and was simply looking to get behind the truck to escape the men who were accosting him.
The matter went to a virtual binding arbitration before AAA Arbitrator Jodi Zagory, and after hearing from all parties, she issued an award of $450,000.00. Nationwide’s best offer to settle the matter pre-arbitration was $100,000.00
Don’t leave your future to chance. Contact Michael J. Redenburg today at 212-240-9465 for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.