We experience accidents almost every day on our roads. A majority of the accidents are caused by driver’s mistakes while others are caused by other factors such as the condition of the vehicle and poor road conditions. Some types of accidents appear to be more dangerous than others. Such accidents included broadside collisions.
What is a broadside collision? Broadside collisions also known as T-bones or angle collisions, broadside collisions normally happen at intersections when the front end of a vehicle hits the passenger side of another car at a right angle. Broadside collisions are among the most dangerous traffic accidents.
Passengers of the vehicle in a broadside accident normally suffer the most. This is because most vehicles lack adequate and effective safety features against side collisions. Airbags and seatbelts are not very effective when it comes to preventing injuries in case of a broadside collision.
A Majority of Broadside Accidents Occur at Intersections
Intersections are points where vehicles cross paths most of the time, making them a hotspot for broadside collisions. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of roundabouts whose aim is to allow a smooth flow of traffic and minimize the number of accidents.
What Causes Broadside Collisions?
T-born or broadside crashes normally occur due to negligence on the side of one driver. Below are some of the common causes of broadside accidents:
• A reckless driver
• When a car fails to yield towards the right way at an intersection or when two or more cars are merging
• When one car navigates an intersection in a wrong way like proceeding running through a car at a stop sign or red light
• Distracted driving
• Slick or icy roads
• Driving while under influence of alcohol or drugs
• Defective auto parts like improperly manufactured braking systems or steering wheel
• Bad weather including snow, sleet or rain
• Poor visibility
• Speeding
• Fatigued driving
Steps to Take After a Broadside Collision
As a driver, you can take every measure to prevent accidents like broadside collisions. But in cases where the inevitable happens, there are certain steps you should take to be safe:
• Get medical attention as soon as possible: The first thing you should do is to get medical attention as soon as possible. Sometimes the injuries may not manifest immediately. That’s why it is recommended you get examined by a doctor to establish whether you have been injured or not.
• Gather information: The other thing you should do is to get the contact information as well as insurance information from all the witnesses, drivers and occupants involved in the broadside collision. You should also take pictures of visible injuries, property damage and license plates using your phone.
• Contact your auto insurer: irrespective of who is at fault, you need to call your insurance company and report the accident. Don’t give any other information apart from reporting the accident.
• Call a personal injury lawyer: Broadside collisions are usually severe accidents that lead to serious injuries and sometimes fatalities. You need an experienced personal injury lawyer to file for compensation or defend you in court.
