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Side-Impact Crashes in NY

Nearly a quarter of all car accident fatalities in 2020 were from a side-impact crash. For those lucky enough to survive, the adrenaline rush may fade to reveal serious injuries, trauma, and lasting pain.

Recovery from a side-impact accident is challenging, and victims often worry about the cost of healing. If you feel overwhelmed or unsure after a New York broadside crash, you are not alone. Recovering compensation for your injuries and damages could be just a phone call away.

At Hecht, Kleeger, & Damashek P.C., our experienced personal injury lawyers will provide the personal attention you need after a T-bone collision. Our dedicated legal team makes every effort to get involved in cases as quickly as possible and earn compensation for clients to recover fully.

Don’t wait. Call HKD at 212-490-5700 to schedule a free case consultation today.

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Why Broadside Accidents are Dangerous

Broadside crashes commonly occur in high-traffic areas, so drivers and passengers are at risk of being pushed into the next lane and striking other cars. But these accidents are hazardous due to the lack of safety measures on a vehicle’s side.

Lack of Crumple Zones

The hood and trunk of a car are its “crumple zones.” These areas intentionally crush on impact, absorbing a crash’s energy. Crumple zones protect occupants during head-on or rear-end collisions by taking in and redistributing some force.

The sides of a car have significantly less bulk than the front and rear, so they absorb less energy. This absence of lateral crumple zones means drivers and passengers are vulnerable during T-bone accidents.

Inefficient Airbags

Frontal airbags do little to protect backseat passengers in a broadside crash. That’s why many modern vehicles have lateral and rear seat airbags to help prevent an occupant’s head from colliding with the window next to them.

However, these airbags are not required in motor vehicles and are only helpful on the first impact. Many T-bone accidents involve multiple impacts with various cars or surfaces since they commonly occur in intersections, parking lots, and other busy locations.

T-Bone Car Accidents Lawyer in New York City Common Causes of T-Bone Crashes

Some of the most common causes of side-impact car crashes include:

  • Running a red light or stop sign
  • Failing to yield the right-of-way
  • Inattentive or distracted driving
  • Aggressive driving, or “road rage”
  • Improper and unsafe turns

Typical Side-Impact Crash Injuries

Unfortunately, injuries are often severe due to the massive force in a T-bone wreck. They include:

In some cases, crash injuries may be fatal. You might be entitled to compensation if you lost a loved one in a New York T-bone accident. Call a wrongful death attorney at HKD to speak with a compassionate and experienced legal advisor today.

Who is at Fault for a T-Bone Accident?

The driver that struck the other vehicle is typically at fault in a New York T-bone accident. They likely behaved negligently, such as failing to yield right-of-way or turning illegally.

However, New York operates under a “pure comparative negligence” rule, which means the compensation you are entitled to will be reduced by your degree of fault. For example, if you suffered $1,000,000 in damages, but the court determines you were 10% at fault, you can only recover compensation up to 90%, or $900,000.

At Hecht, Kleeger, & Damashek, we know that fault being open to interpretation leaves room for insurance companies to reduce or deny liability. That’s why we put effort into collecting all the available evidence from day one, aggressively fighting for your interests, and countering any tactics insurance companies may use. We’ll be prepared to fight for you to get full and fair compensation no matter what it takes.

Compensation After a New York T-Bone Accident

If you have been injured in a T-bone accident, it is crucial you receive compensation. These accidents can result in extreme damage to your vehicle and significant injuries to you and your passengers.

However, obtaining compensation can be confusing, especially if you’re unfamiliar with New York insurance and personal injury laws. That’s why having an experienced attorney can make a difference in your case.

An attorney at HKD can evaluate your individual case and help you decide the best route to take based on your needs. After a side-impact collision in New York, victims can recover compensation in a few ways, including:

No-Fault or Personal Injury Protection Benefits

Under the state’s mandatory no-fault insurance laws, your insurance coverage will likely cover damages such as:

  • Accident-related bills
  • Up to 80% of lost income, up to $2,000 a month for up to three years after the accident
  • $25 a day for up to a year to cover reasonable and necessary expenses, like transport to medical appointments and household help
  • $2,000 in death benefits to the estate of anyone killed in the accident

Personal injury protection insurance pays for these regardless of who is at fault. However, PIP might not be enough to cover all your damages—especially if you suffered severe injuries.

Third-Party Insurance Claims

Even though New York is a no-fault state, you may consider filing a third-party insurance claim against the at-fault driver to get compensation for property damage or more money to cover other medical expenses.

Your injuries must meet a “serious injury threshold” under New York law and affect you for at least 90 days within the first 180 days after the accident.

A third-party insurance claim allows you to pursue non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, which PIP does not cover. If you wish to obtain the maximum compensation from your accident, a third-party insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit are your best options.

Personal Injury Lawsuits in NYC

Filing a personal injury lawsuit shows insurance companies that you’re serious. When you sue the negligent party, their insurance will be liable for your injuries and damages.

Even the threat of a lawsuit often makes insurance companies more willing to negotiate a fair settlement. We can take them to court and help you fight for what you deserve.

At HKD, our attorneys have decades of experience with the New York trial process. We understand the right questions to ask, witnesses to choose, and arguments to make to prove your case and hold the negligent party accountable.

You can feel at ease while our prepared team handles discovery and thoroughly defends your T-bone accident case at trial.

How an HKD Lawyer Can Help

Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C., is a dedicated car accident attorney that can help you file a claim for compensation if you have been injured in a car accident.

Our firm’s attorneys are seasoned professionals, highly experienced in personal injury claim procedures. We have a record of success handling side-impact accident cases and many other types of personal injury accidents.

We Stand Up to Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often lowball victims of T-bone crashes. HKD will fight back and seek maximum compensation. We’re prepared to file your claim as tough advocates when you need representation.

Skilled legal representation can help prevent claim delays or denials and ensure the best possible results when seeking personal injury benefits.

We’re Here For You Through the Entire Process

Our personal attention can help you through the trauma you and your family may endure. Our firm has the experience necessary to investigate the circumstances of the accident and stand up for you.

The impact of a side-impact collision in New York can cause serious injuries. You deserve the most money possible to recover from your accident and move on with your life.

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I have had two cases with Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek and have had great results! I have netted over seven figures and would recommend the firm anyone who has been injured in a slip and fall or auto accident.

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Call Our Side-Impact Accident Lawyers in New York City

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a T-bone car accident, an experienced New York City car accident attorney can review your case and discuss how best to proceed with financial recovery. You deserve the maximum compensation after a car crash, and Hecht, Kleeger, & Damashek, P.C. is here to help you achieve it.

Contact HKD at 212-490-5700 today or use our online contact form to schedule a free case evaluation.

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