Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Florida T-Bone Accident?
T-bone accidents are among the most dangerous types of car crashes on Florida roads. These side-impact collisions happen when the front of one vehicle slams into the side of another—forming a “T” shape. The impact often occurs suddenly, typically at intersections, and can result in serious, life-altering injuries for those involved.
If you or someone you love was injured in a T-bone crash, you may be wondering: Who’s responsible? And how can I recover compensation for what I’ve suffered?
At Applebaum Accident Group, we understand how overwhelming life becomes after a serious crash. Let’s walk through who may be held legally accountable for your injuries—and how our team can help you pursue the justice you deserve.
Common Causes and Locations of T-Bone Accidents
T-bone accidents usually happen at intersections—but they can also occur on highways, in parking lots, or anywhere a driver fails to yield the right-of-way. Often, one vehicle enters an intersection illegally—by running a red light, ignoring a stop sign, or misjudging a left turn—and crashes directly into the side of another.
These crashes are especially dangerous because the side of a vehicle offers far less protection than the front or rear. Side airbags and safety panels provide limited defense, leaving occupants vulnerable to traumatic injuries.
Who’s at Fault in a T-Bone Crash?
Determining fault after a T-bone collision can be complicated. Several parties may share responsibility:
1. The Other Driver
Most commonly, another driver is at fault due to:
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Speeding through an intersection
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Failing to stop at a light or sign
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Driving while distracted or impaired
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Making a reckless turn without yielding
2. A Negligent Employer
If the at-fault driver was operating a company vehicle, their employer may share liability. For example, if the company hired a driver with a poor safety record or failed to maintain the vehicle, they could be held accountable under Florida’s vicarious liability laws.
3. The Vehicle Manufacturer
A mechanical failure—such as brake failure or faulty steering—could indicate that a defective auto part caused or contributed to the crash. In these cases, the manufacturer may be strictly liable for your injuries.
4. Road Designers or Engineers
Sometimes, unsafe road design plays a role. Poor signage, low visibility, or confusing intersection layouts can create dangerous conditions that increase the risk of a T-bone crash. If this is the case, a government entity or contractor may share liability.
Injuries Commonly Seen in T-Bone Collisions
Side-impact crashes often result in serious or catastrophic injuries. Some of the most common include:
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Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
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Neck and back injuries
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Spinal cord damage
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Fractures and crushed limbs
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Internal injuries
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Fatal injuries leading to wrongful death claims
Victims frequently face long hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and extended time away from work. The emotional and financial toll can be devastating.
How Florida’s No-Fault Laws Affect Your Case
Florida is a no-fault insurance state. This means your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for your initial medical expenses and lost wages—regardless of who caused the accident.
However, if your injuries are severe or exceed your PIP limits, you may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. This includes claims for:
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Pain and suffering
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Full medical costs
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Future lost earnings
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Permanent disability or disfigurement
Applebaum Accident Group can assess whether your injuries qualify for a claim beyond PIP and help you navigate the next steps.
What Damages Can You Recover?
The aftermath of a T-bone crash is expensive and overwhelming. Victims may be eligible to recover compensation for:
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Emergency and ongoing medical treatment
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Lost wages and loss of earning potential
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Property damage
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Pain and suffering
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Mental anguish
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Permanent disability or loss of quality of life
Our goal is to secure every dollar you’re legally entitled to—so you can focus on healing, not bills.
Why You Need a Florida Car Accident Lawyer on Your Side
T-bone accidents often involve complex liability and severe injuries. You shouldn’t have to fight the insurance companies alone. At Applebaum Accident Group, we thoroughly investigate the crash, identify every liable party, and aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve.
Here’s how we help:
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Conduct a full crash investigation
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Collect and preserve crucial evidence
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Consult accident reconstruction and medical experts
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Handle all insurance communication
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Negotiate maximum settlements
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Take your case to court if necessary
And the best part? You pay nothing unless we win your case.
Get the Legal Help You Deserve Today
If you’ve been injured in a Florida T-bone crash, don’t wait to seek legal guidance. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can get to work protecting your rights.
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with Applebaum Accident Group today. Let us fight for the justice, accountability, and compensation you’re owed.
📞 Call us now[855-Call-Paul]
or fill out our secure contact form to get started.
