Steps to Take After a Side-Impact Collision in Florida
![SideImpact SideImpact](https://www.leiferlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/SideImpact-200x200.jpg)
Sometimes referred to as T-bone accidents, side-impact crashes are incredibly dangerous. While there have been many advances over the years when it comes to vehicular safety features, vehicle occupants still remain more vulnerable during side-impact collisions. This is due to the limited space and structural protection between them and the point of impact.
Accessing proper medical care is priority number one following a car accident. Next, engaging a knowledgeable Boca Raton personal injury lawyer is key to navigating insurance claim complexities and ensuring your rights are upheld. Seasoned car accident attorneys are familiar with why these accidents occur and they know how to significantly boost your chances of securing monetary relief.
Why Side-Impact Accident Happen
Side-impact collisions often occur at intersections, where one vehicle strikes the side of another, forming a T shape. Common causes include:
- Running red lights or failing to yield. Drivers who fail to obey signs and signals can cause devastating side-impact collisions, and misjudging the distance of an oncoming vehicle when turning can result in a T-bone collision as well.
- Distracted driving. Texting, talking on the phone, unwrapping a sandwich, reprogramming dashboard controls, and other distractions can lead to a driver not noticing another vehicle crossing their path.
- Traveling too fast. Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of the impact.
- Driving under the influence. Impaired drivers do not have a full understanding of their surroundings and have slower reaction times. These dangers along with poor judgment make side-impact collisions more likely when a vehicle operator is drunk or drugged.
Modern vehicles are equipped with numerous safety features designed to protect car and truck occupants. These include side airbags that deploy from the doors or seats to cushion and protect passengers, zones designed to absorb and dissipate the energy of a crash, and doors strengthened to provide additional protection.
That said, while modern features enhance safety, the protection they offer in side-impact collisions is still limited compared to front or rear-end crashes due to the narrower area between the occupant and the point of impact.
Fortifying Your Chances of Securing Compensation
In order to obtain the settlement amount you need to pay off medical expenses and cover future costs, maintain all documentation related to the accident, including medical records, repair bills, and correspondence with insurance companies. And adhere to your healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation, this demonstrates your commitment to recovery.
Since they have secured favorable outcomes for past clients, seasoned Boca Raton personal injury lawyers can handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement. If necessary, they can also represent you in court to ensure your rights are protected and you receive appropriate compensation.
Who are you talking to about your side-impact collision injury? If you have been offered a settlement after an accident in Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, or Pompano Beach and suspect it is lower than what you have a right to, talk to the attorneys at Leifer & Ramirez. To have the full value of your claim determined, schedule a confidential consultation today, call 561-660-9421.