T-bone collisions, also known as side-impact crashes, happen when the front of a vehicle strikes the side of another, creating a “T” shape of impact. Generally, these types of collisions increase the risk of passenger death or injury.
Virginia uses an at-fault system, meaning that the at-fault driver (or their insurance company) will have to pay for the damages and losses of the victim after an accident. To ensure that this process goes smoothly, victims should consider hiring car crash lawyers in Virginia. The expertise and experience of these legal professionals are essential for a successful outcome.
This article explores the different factors that make T-bone collisions dangerous.
Speed
The speed at which a vehicle strikes increases the deadliness of a T-bone collision. Higher speeds increase the force of impact. This greatly increases the chances of severe injuries or a fatality.
Despite Virginia’s very strict speed limits, it is expected to see drivers ignore them. The speed of the vehicles can further increase the severity of a T-bone collision.
The Point of Contact
Unlike rear-end collisions, where a vehicle will absorb impact through crumple zones, T-bone crashes expose occupants directly to crashes. Side panels often lack the same structural reinforcements as front and rear bumpers.
Passengers seated on the side where the collision occurs are more vulnerable. The closer to the point of impact, the higher the chances of fractures or severe head and chest injuries. Even though side airbags are not mandatory, these upgrades are necessary to save a person’s life.
Intersection Design
T-bone collisions mostly happen at intersections where different roads cross paths. They often occur when a driver takes a sharp left turn or fails to yield the right of way. Poorly designed roads contribute to these collisions.
For example, intersections with unclear traffic rules or limited visibility can lead to driver error. In instances like failure to give right of way or running red lights, a driver’s speed increases the likelihood of an accident.
Type of Vehicle
In collisions where a larger truck or SUV strikes an average passenger car, the difference in size and height increases the intensity of the accident for those in the smaller car. Virginia roads are filled with a diverse range of cars, and this imbalance can cause life-threatening injuries.
Driver Behavior
Aggressive driving is common on Virginia roads. According to a Forbes report, Virginia ranked fourth in the US for aggression on the road. The state also ranks highly for drivers likely to cut off other cars.
Aggressive driving behavior, such as speeding through yellow lights, impatience at intersections, and illegal turns, is a major factor in T-bone accidents.
DUI in Virginia is prevalent. In 2022, 14,247 people in the state were convicted of DUI. Sadly, 27% of all traffic fatalities were alcohol-related. These factors heighten the deadliness of T-bone collisions in the state.
Conclusion
T-bone collisions remain among the deadliest accidents in Virginia and the United States as a whole. The combination of high speed, the size and weight of the vehicles involved, and bad driver behavior increases the chances of a fatality.
Reducing T-bone collisions requires drivers to be more vigilant on the road. Meanwhile, the Virginia government can improve intersections by adding clearer signs and traffic control measures.
