J. Cogburn Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers | September 27, 2024 | Car Accidents

Las Vegas Premises Liability Lawyer

T-bone car accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, can be among the most severe types of crashes due to the lack of protection on the sides of most vehicles. These accidents often occur at intersections when one driver fails to yield the right of way.

Determining who is at fault in a Las Vegas T-bone accident can be complex, and it’s helpful for anyone involved to understand how fault is determined and what factors are considered. If you need the help of a Las Vegas car accident attorney, reach out to us today.

Common Causes of T-Bone Car Accidents 

T-bone accidents happen for many reasons, all focused on driver error. 

The factors that contribute to these crashes include:

  • Running red lights or stop signs
  • Failing to yield when turning left
  • Speeding through an intersection
  • Distracted driving
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Misjudging the distance of oncoming traffic

These behaviors put drivers and passengers at serious risk of injury. 

How Fault Is Determined in a T-Bone Collision 

In Nevada, the concept of fault in car accidents is based on negligence. The at-fault party is the person whose actions led to the accident. However, identifying who’s responsible can require some investigation.

Here’s what investigators, law enforcement and insurance adjusters look at when determining fault:

  • Right of Way Violations: In most T-bone accidents, one driver has failed to yield the right of way. This could mean running a red light or stop sign or turning left in front of oncoming traffic. The driver who violated traffic laws is usually at fault.
  • Traffic Camera Footage or Witness Statements: If a camera captured the accident or witnesses were present, their accounts can provide valuable insight into what happened.
  • Police Reports: Police officers who respond to the scene will file a report that details the events leading up to the crash. This report often includes statements from both drivers, any witnesses, and their professional opinion on fault.

If another driver is at fault for your collision, you could be entitled to compensation.  

Can Both Drivers Be at Fault? 

Yes, both drivers can share responsibility in a T-bone car accident. Nevada follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that more than one driver can be at fault. If you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. 

For example, if you are found 30% at fault for the accident, your compensation would be reduced by 30%. However, if you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover. 

Proving Fault in a T-Bone Accident 

If you’ve been involved in a T-bone accident in Las Vegas, gathering evidence will be important to prove fault. 

Some steps you can take to protect yourself include:

  • Take Photos: Photograph the accident scene, including the positions of the vehicles, damage, and any traffic signals or signs that may be relevant.
  • Get Witness Information: If there are any witnesses, be sure to get their contact information. Their testimony can help clarify what happened.
  • Obtain a Copy of the Police Report: The official police report can be a key piece of evidence when proving fault.

An experienced Las Vegas car accident attorney can help you ensure that your rights are protected.

Why You Need an Attorney After a T-Bone Accident

T-bone accidents often result in serious injuries, leading to expensive medical bills, lost wages and other financial hardships. 

If the other driver was at fault, a car accident attorney can assist by:

  • Investigating the accident thoroughly
  • Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
  • Representing you in court if necessary

Navigating Nevada’s legal system after an accident can be overwhelming, especially if you’re recovering from injuries. Having legal representation allows you to focus on your recovery while your attorney builds a strong case.

Determining who is at fault in a Las Vegas T-bone car accident hinges on right-of-way violations, traffic law adherence, and other driving behaviors. If you’ve been T-boned, an experienced attorney is your ally.  

For more information, please contact our Las Vegas car accident attorneys at J. Cogburn Car Accidents and Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

We proudly serve Clark County and throughout Nevada:

J. Cogburn Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers Las Vegas
2300 W Sahara Ave Suite 800-816, Las Vegas, NV 89102
(702) 710-0198
Open 24 hours

J. Cogburn Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers Henderson
2580 St Rose Pkwy Suite 330, Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 541-9766
Open 24 hours