What Can You Do To Avoid Broadside Collisions?

A broadside collision in Missouri can transform an ordinary drive into a life-changing event in the blink of an eye. Known for their devastating impacts, these T-bone or side-impact accidents often lead to severe injuries, significant vehicle damage, and, in the worst cases, can be fatal. Therefore, the critical importance of what can be done to avoid such collisions cannot be overstated.

To prevent broadside collisions in Missouri, you should drive with caution as if you are the only sober driver on the road. And if you still find yourself a victim of these collisions, a Missouri car accident lawyer can help. They will guide you through your claim to ensure that you receive justice for the impact of the crash on your life.

Below is some information about how to protect yourself before and after a broadside collision, though caution cannot prevent all accidents and injuries. The Missouri car accident lawyers at Devkota Law Firm are ready to help if you have suffered injuries in a crash.

Statistics & Common Locations of Broadside Collisions
The U.S. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reports that intersections are the site of approximately 20 percent of all traffic deaths and 40 percent of traffic-related injuries in the U.S. Additionally, almost 50 percent of intersection accidents are broadside collisions.

Intersections have become a focal point for the FHWA to promote traffic safety. This is because while intersections are designed to facilitate smooth traffic flow, they unfortunately create ideal conditions for broadside collisions, especially when drivers are distracted.

Beyond intersections, broadside collisions frequently occur at highway on-ramps and rural intersections where traffic from only one direction is required to yield. Multi-lane roadways also present significant risks due to the complexity of navigating through multiple streams of traffic.

What Causes Broadside Collisions?
Broadside collisions mostly happen when one driver does not yield the right of way or spin out of control. Statistics indicate a worrying trend of collisions occurring at intersections, highlighting the need for Missouri drivers to be careful, particularly when approaching these areas.

Running red lights or stop signs. Drivers who ignore traffic signals or signs at intersections are a primary cause of broadside collisions. According to an AAA report, 43% of drivers admit to recently running a red light instead of stopping safely.
Failure to yield. Some drivers don’t yield to oncoming traffic at intersections or merging lanes. This is particularly common at rural intersections where only one side of traffic must stop, increasing the risk of broadside collisions.
Distracted driving. Any driver’s activity that turns away from the road can potentially lead to serious traffic crashes. Distractions cause drivers to miss crucial signals, signs, or other vehicles, leading to a crash.
Speeding. Speeding not only makes it harder to stop in time but also amplifies the severity of a collision. This makes it more likely that a T-bone collision will result in severe injuries or fatalities.
Inclement Weather. The notorious ice storms, severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding in Missouri make it difficult for drivers to act in time. These conditions decrease the ability to brake in the “dilemma zone”—that moment when a light turns yellow, and you must decide whether to stop or move on—potentially leading to a red light violation.

If drivers understand what could potentially cause broadside collisions in Missouri, they can stay vigilant and take preventative measures to avoid such dangerous scenarios.

Prevention & Safety Measures
Preventing broadside collisions requires a combination of attentive driving, defensive techniques, and compliance with traffic laws. Here are some steps you can take to avoid these accidents:

Stop at red lights and never assume other drivers will do the same.
Keep your focus on the road at all times, especially at intersections where the risk of broadside collisions is higher.
Avoid distractions such as eating while driving.
Adjust your driving according to weather conditions.
Always be prepared to react to other drivers’ actions.
Install advanced safety features such as collision avoidance systems and blind-spot monitoring,

By adopting these safety measures, you can greatly minimize the chances of being involved in a broadside collision.

The Impact of Broadside Collisions
Broadside collisions often have devastating consequences, with the severity of injuries varying based on the point of impact, the speed of the vehicles, and the size difference between them. Here’s a breakdown of how these factors contribute to the overall impact:

Injuries. The occupants sitting on the side of the vehicle struck are at high risk for serious injuries because the side of a car has less structural protection compared to the front and rear.
Vehicle damage. In a broadside collision, the struck vehicle often sustains significant damage to its side panels, doors, and windows. In many cases, these accidents lead to the total loss of the vehicle due to the extensive damage to the frame and interior.
Long-term consequences. Severe injuries from these accidents may require ongoing medical care and rehabilitation and could result in permanent disability. The emotional and financial strain of the injury can be overwhelming.

Your lawyer will evaluate the consequences of broadside collisions on your life so as to seek adequate compensation that can effectively reclaim your life.

Legal Aspects of Broadside Collisions
Victims of auto accidents in Missouri are entitled to compensation for their injuries and losses occasioned by the collision. Collaborating with a car accident lawyer in Missouri is the most effective way to win a fair settlement. With a legal advocate by your side, you should concentrate on your recovery without the burden of worrying about covering accident-related expenses.

To prove your claim, you need to have documented evidence, such as:

A copy of the police accident report
Medical records
Photos of the accident scene
Expert witness

Our legal team also advises victims of car accidents to be mindful of what they say to the insurance companies after the accident. They might attempt to twist your words to hold you responsible for the accident.

To protect yourself from potentially harming your claim, don’t provide the insurance company with a statement or accept offers until you talk with your attorney. Insurers may propose lowball settlements that may not fully cover your losses, particularly lost earning capacity and future medical expenses.

Know Your Rights After a Broadside Collision
If you’ve been involved in a broadside collision, you need to understand your legal rights lest the defendants take advantage of your ignorance. An attorney can help you file claims, negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurance companies, and take legal action if necessary. They will help protect your interests and rights and push for fair compensation for your damages.

Also, a Missouri car accident lawyer will explain to you the legal statutes that apply to your case and their implications. For instance, you need to understand that you have five years to bring your claim. This means delaying legal action may result in the forfeiture of your right to recover damages. At the same time, your lawyer may consider tolling factors in your case and push for a deadline extension so you can still receive damages despite the lapse of the legal timeframe.

A Missouri Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
A Missouri car accident lawyer at the Devkota Law Firm can explain your rights, fight for fair compensation, and ensure you get justice for your pain and suffering. Contact us today for a free consultation and start the process of getting your life back on track.