Columbia T-Bone Collision Lawyer

Intersections across Columbia see thousands of vehicles crossing paths every day. When drivers fail to yield, run red lights, or make careless decisions at these critical junctures, the results can be catastrophic. T-bone collisions, where the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another at a perpendicular angle, represent some of the most devastating accidents on South Carolina roads. 

If you’ve been injured in a T-bone collision, the Columbia car injury attorneys at Stewart Law Offices can help you deal with the complex aftermath. Our experienced Columbia car accident attorneys understand the severe injuries these crashes cause and know how to build compelling cases that maximize your compensation. 

With over 30 years of experience representing accident victims throughout South Carolina and millions of dollars recovered for our clients, we have the resources and expertise to take on insurance companies and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Why T-Bone Collisions Are So Dangerous

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, side impacts accounted for 22% of passenger vehicle occupant deaths in 2023. These crashes, also called T-bone or angle collisions, occur when one vehicle’s front end strikes another vehicle’s side, forming a “T” shape at impact.

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety reports that traffic collisions happen every 3.7 minutes in South Carolina, with 1,093 fatalities recorded statewide in 2022. Side-impact crashes prove particularly dangerous because vehicle sides provide minimal protection compared to front or rear ends. Passengers seated on the struck side face the highest risk of catastrophic injury or death.

T-bone collisions are especially deadly because vehicle sides offer minimal protection compared to the front or rear. While modern vehicles use crumple zones and engine/trunk space to absorb frontal and rear impacts, the sides contain only door panels and glass, leaving occupants on the impacted side highly vulnerable to catastrophic injuries.

Common Causes of T-Bone Crashes in Columbia

Most side-impact crashes are preventable. They often occur when a driver disregards traffic rules or fails to pay attention in high-risk areas.

Frequent causes include:

Busy Columbia intersections, particularly those near highways, shopping corridors, and downtown traffic routes, create conditions where one mistake can lead to a devastating side-impact collision.

Severe Injuries From T-Bone Collisions

The minimal side protection in vehicles causes catastrophic injuries, including:

  • Traumatic brain injuries 
  • Spinal cord damage 
  • Internal organ injuries 
  • Broken ribs and thoracic injuries
  • Pelvic fractures 
  • Shoulder, arm, and leg injuries 

Immediate medical evaluation is critical even when injuries seem minor, as internal bleeding and brain injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days.

Determining Fault in Columbia T-Bone Accidents

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence system. Under South Carolina law, you can recover damages as long as you’re 50% or less at fault for the accident. Your percentage of fault reduces your compensation.

Insurance companies frequently dispute liability by claiming the victim ran the red light, failed to yield, or shares responsibility. Our Columbia car accident attorneys gather compelling evidence, including:

  • Police reports and any citations issued
  • Traffic camera footage
  • Witness statements
  • Accident reconstruction analysis
  • Photos of damage and the intersection layout
  • Traffic signal timing records

Being found 51% or more at fault bars you from recovering any compensation whatsoever under South Carolina’s harsh rule. This makes experienced legal representation critical from day one.

Steps to Take After a T-Bone Collision

Protect your rights by:

  1. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical help
  2. Seeking immediate medical evaluation even if injuries seem minor
  3. Photographing all vehicles, injuries, the intersection, and road conditions
  4. Gathering witness information
  5. Exchanging information with other drivers
  6. Preserving all evidence and documentation
  7. Avoiding recorded statements to insurance companies
  8. Contacting Stewart Law Offices immediately

Do not admit fault at the scene. Let our attorneys handle all communications with insurance companies.

South Carolina law gives you three years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Miss this deadline, and you lose your right to compensation forever. Contact Stewart Law Offices as soon as possible after your T-bone collision so we can begin building your case immediately.

Visit Our T-Bone Collision Lawyers in Columbia

Contact Our Columbia T-Bone Collision Lawyers

Our Columbia car accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations to establish liability in T-bone crashes. We preserve crucial evidence, including traffic camera footage, witness statements, and vehicle data recorders. We work with accident reconstruction experts when necessary and calculate your full damages, including future losses.

We handle all communications with insurance companies to protect your rights and negotiate aggressively for maximum settlements. When necessary, we take cases to trial to ensure you receive fair compensation. Stewart Law Offices operates on a contingency fee basis; you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Don’t face the aftermath of a devastating T-bone crash alone. Time limits apply to injury claims under South Carolina law. Call 803-743-4200 or contact us online today for a free, confidential case evaluation with experienced car accident attorneys in Columbia.