According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), an estimated 23% of car accident fatalities in the U.S. result from side-impact collisions. Even when the vehicles involved are not speeding, these crashes can cause severe injuries to those involved. If you are looking for an attorney to help you pursue compensation after such an accident, you have the opportunity to work with a Buffalo side-impact collisions lawyer.
At Morelli Law Firm, we can be your legal partner in your pursuit of justice. Call (212) 751-9800 to begin a free consultation with a representative from our team.
Insight into a Side-Impact Car Accident
A side-impact collision (otherwise known as a T-bone accident) occurs when the front of a vehicle strikes the side of another. This type of accident can also occur when a car hits the side (or nearside) of another.
There may be many underlying causes of your collision in Buffalo. Your lawyer will review the information and evidence associated with your case to determine the cause of your accident.
Some of the contributing factors in your collision may include:
- Distracted driving
- Improper lane changes
- Speeding
- Driving while fatigued
- Ignoring traffic signals and signs
- Engaging in road rage
- Driving while intoxicated
- Failing to yield to another driver’s right of way
If you have been in a side-impact crash in Buffalo, you should consider how legal representation can help you. After explaining the details of your crash to our legal team, Morelli Law Firm will offer guidance to help you recover fair compensation.
Examples of Injuries in Side-Impact Collisions
If you were in a car accident, consult with a doctor immediately. Even for minor injuries, you will want to be examined by a doctor to make sure that you do not have any hidden conditions, like organ damage.
Side-impact collisions can leave victims with devastating injuries, including:
- Fractured or broken bones
- Back and neck injuries, such as whiplash
- A traumatic brain injury
- Cuts and lacerations
- Spinal cord trauma
- Paralysis
- Sprains and strains
- Nerve damage
The law allows you to seek financial compensation from the party who caused the accident. A Buffalo side-impact collisions lawyer can help you establish negligence and identify all at-fault parties after your T-bone accident. You can explore your options by getting in touch with Morelli Law Firm. Your first consultation is free, and you can ask us any questions that you may have regarding your legal matters.
Buffalo Side-Impact Collisions Lawyer Near Me 877-751-9800
Establishing Liability in a Side-Impact Collision
If you have suffered injuries in a side-impact crash, assigning fault and liability may seem fairly straightforward. You may think that the motorist who hit you is to blame. However, as your case develops, multiple parties may hold some portion of liability for your accident and injuries. Your lawyer can evaluate your circumstances to determine who should be financially responsible for your damages.
One or more of the following parties may be responsible for the crash:
The Manufacturer
The motorist who caused the accident could have been trying to apply their brakes unsuccessfully. It is also likely that the other driver’s steering system failed. When an accident involves a defective vehicle, you may be able to hold the car’s manufacturer liable under the legal principle of strict liability.
You can hold the car’s manufacturer liable if a defective part caused the crash.
A Government Department or Other Public Entity
Sometimes, hazardous roadway conditions can lead to side-impact crashes. For example, if a roadway was marked with potholes, which contributed to your collision, you can hold the municipality responsible for the roadway’s maintenance accountable for your damages.
A Negligent Driver
Some T-bone crashes arise from the actions of negligent drivers. Many collisions are caused by distracted driving. These practices can include texting, talking on a cell phone, and addressing other passengers.
When a collision involves several potential at-fault parties, each may attempt to shift the blame elsewhere. Working with a lawyer can help you identify all negligent parties and determine a method of legal action. You can call Morelli Law Firm today to learn more.
Hire a Buffalo Side-Impact Collisions Lawyer for Help with Your Case
You have the right to represent yourself following a side-impact collision. However, when it comes to determining fault and liability, you may want a lawyer on your side. They can address any obstacles that threaten your right to fair compensation.
A lawyer’s goal is to resolve your personal injury case through a pre-trial settlement or court award.
They can help you by:
- Investigating the accident
- Gathering pieces of evidence to support your case
- Examining your medical records
- Consulting with your health care team regarding the value of your claim
- Negotiating for a fair settlement with the liable insurance carriers
- Representing you in court, if necessary
At Morelli Law Firm, we also work on a contingency-fee-basis. We do not render our help on an hourly basis, nor do we require any retainers to get started on your case. We get paid a percentage of the money we get for you. To begin your free initial consultation, dial (212) 751-9800.
New York’s Motor Vehicle Accident Statute of Limitations
If you need to file a lawsuit to secure reimbursement for your damages, you may not have the luxury of time. According to New York’s Civil Practice Law & Rules (CVP) §214(4), you typically have three years from the date of your collision to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. You should consider taking prompt legal action because, with the passage of time, evidence can disappear, witnesses can move, and traffic camera footage can get erased. When you work with Morelli Law Firm, we can determine how the state’s statute of limitations affects your case. We can advise you on any pending deadlines and take action accordingly.
Contact Morelli Law Firm to Initiate Your Case
A side-impact collision can cause serious injuries and impact your quality of life. To recover the cost of your accident-related damages, consider working with a Buffalo side-impact collisions lawyer. We can help you recover the cost of your medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and reduced future earning capacity.
Call Morelli Law Firm at (212) 751-9800 for help filing a claim or lawsuit.