Long Island Side-Impact Collisions Lawyer

Side impact car accidents, also known as T-bone or broadside collisions, occur when the front or rear of one vehicle collides with the side of another. These accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the limited protection provided by the side of a vehicle.

At The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III, our experienced side-impact car accident lawyers are committed to providing the guidance and representation you need to navigate the complex legal landscape following a crash. With our expertise in New York law, we will fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Shocking Side Impact Accident Statistics

Understanding the prevalence and dangers of side impact collisions is crucial in recognizing the importance of skilled legal representation. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), side impact accidents account for approximately 25% of all passenger vehicle fatalities in the United States.

If you were injured in an auto accident on Long Island, in Queens, or any of the nearby areas, call the Law Office of Joseph J. Perrini, III at  516-221-7900 for a free consultation today.

Moreover, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that side-impact crashes are responsible for more than 9,000 deaths annually. These statistics highlight the urgent need for effective legal assistance following a side-impact accident.

Common Causes of Side Impact Collisions

Side impact collisions can occur due to various reasons, with some common causes being:

• Failure to Yield: A driver may fail to yield the right of way at an intersection or while merging, causing a side impact collision.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Drivers who disregard traffic signals or stop signs risk colliding with vehicles with the right of way.
• Distracted Driving: Engaging in activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio can divert a driver’s attention from the road, leading to a side impact crash.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and ability to avoid collisions, increasing the likelihood of a side-impact accident.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and reaction time, making side-impact collisions more likely.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, ice, or fog can decrease visibility and road traction, making it more challenging for drivers to avoid side-impact accidents.
• Ignoring Traffic Signs: Failing to observe or follow traffic signs, such as yield signs, can result in side impact collisions at intersections.
• Inadequate or Faulty Traffic Signals: Malfunctioning or poorly placed traffic signals can confuse drivers, leading to side-impact accidents.
• Aggressive Driving: Tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or making unsafe lane changes can increase the risk of side-impact collisions.
• Driver Inexperience: Novice drivers may not fully understand right-of-way rules or how to navigate intersections safely, leading to side-impact accidents.

Common Injuries Sustained in Side Impact Accidents

Due to the nature of side-impact collisions, injuries sustained in these accidents can be severe and life-altering. Some common injuries include:

Head and Brain Injuries

The sudden impact of a side collision often causes the head to jerk violently or strike the vehicle’s interior, potentially resulting in traumatic brain injuries or skull fractures.

Neck and Spinal Cord Injuries

The force of a side impact crash can cause whiplash, herniated discs, or even spinal cord damage, leading to chronic pain or paralysis.

Broken Bones

The impact of a T-bone accident can result in broken or fractured bones, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis.

Internal Injuries

The force of a side impact collision can cause internal organ damage, internal bleeding, or ruptured blood vessels.

New York State Laws on Side Impact Accidents

To protect your rights and receive compensation for damages sustained in a side-impact car accident, it is essential to understand New York State laws governing these incidents.

Some critical aspects of New York law include:

No-Fault Insurance System

New York operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means that your insurance company will cover your medical bills and lost wages up to a certain limit, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. However, if your injuries meet a certain threshold, you may pursue a claim against the at-fault driver for additional compensation.

Comparative Negligence

New York follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which allows injured parties to recover compensation even if they were partially responsible for the accident. However, the amount of compensation awarded will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to the injured party.

Statute of Limitations

In New York, you have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. If a loved one died due to a side impact accident, you have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim.

Proving Liability in a Side Impact Car Accident Case

To successfully recover compensation in a side-impact car accident case, your lawyer must prove that the other driver was negligent and their negligence caused your injuries. Key elements of negligence include:

Duty of Care

All drivers have a legal duty to exercise reasonable care when operating a vehicle.

Breach of Duty: Your lawyer must demonstrate that the at-fault driver breached this duty by failing to exercise reasonable care, such as running a red light or yielding.

Causation

Establishing a direct link between the at-fault driver’s breach of duty and the injuries sustained in the side-impact car accident is necessary.

Damages

Finally, your lawyer must prove that you suffered damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering, as a result of the accident.

Types of Compensation Available for Side Impact Accident Victims

In a side impact car accident case, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

Economic Damages

These damages cover quantifiable financial losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and future medical costs.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate victims for their intangible losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Punitive Damages

In some cases, where the at-fault driver’s actions were particularly egregious or reckless, punitive damages may be awarded to deter similar behavior in the future.

How The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III Can Help You

At The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III, our side impact car accident lawyers are dedicated to providing you with the skilled legal representation you need following a crash. When you work with our team, you can expect the following:

A Thorough Investigation

We will meticulously examine every aspect of your case, from reviewing police reports and medical records to consulting with accident reconstruction experts.

Aggressive Negotiations

Our lawyers will aggressively negotiate with insurance companies, ensuring you receive a fair settlement for your injuries and losses.

Skilled Litigation

If a settlement cannot be reached, our experienced trial attorneys are prepared to fight for your rights in court, advocating for the compensation you deserve.

Personalized Attention

We understand that every case is unique, and we will provide personalized legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances and needs.

Protect Your Rights with Our Long Island Side Impact Car Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been injured in a side-impact car accident, it is crucial to seek skilled legal representation as soon as possible.

At The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III, our experienced side-impact car accident lawyers will guide you through the complex legal process, fight for your rights, and secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you on your path to recovery.