What is a broadside collision?
A broadside collision is a type of road accident that occurs when the front of one vehicle hits the front of another vehicle at top speed. broadside collision is often referred to as a T-Bone Accident. This leads to extreme damage to the vehicle – either only the front portion or the entire vehicle. The driver and passenger of both vehicles may also sustain minor or major injuries.
Common reasons for broadside collisions
Broadside collisions are dangerous accidents which can occur in California due to a couple of reasons, such as –
· Running a red light.
· Refusing to yield space to an oncoming vehicle.
· Going onto the wrong lane and into oncoming traffic.
· Taking wrong turns.
· Driving under the influence.
· Problems with the vehicle’s brakes.
. Slippery roads leading the vehicle to spin out of control.
How to prevent or stop broadside collisions?
Smart and safe driving can of course prevent broadside collisions.
Stay calm and collected when driving, while being aware of your surroundings. Be acquainted with proper road routes and reading road signs.
Regularly repair and spruce up your vehicle, so it is in top working condition. If the vehicle does not have the required safety features, upgrading to another model that does have these safety elements is necessary.
But sometimes, road conditions and extreme weather situations can make driving very dangerous. In those cases, broadside collisions can be a very real threat that you need to be careful about.
An annual report by the Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System stated there were 3,435 people killed and 254,561 people injured in motor vehicle accidents in California.
Most cars have safety features that protect the driver from injuries like airbags, seat belts or front and back bumpers. However, as you can tell from the SWITRS report, many deaths and injuries occur every year due to broadside collision. Some vehicles do have side curtain airbags but most of them lack these safety features. Broadside accidents can take place even at low speeds. Such accidents generally occur at intersections where the drivers do not follow stop signs or run red lights. No matter the case, contact a local personal injury lawyer and discuss your legal options as soon as you can after your accident.
What Are Some Serious Injuries From Broadside Accidents?
A broadside collision can cause a variety of injuries ranging from minor to severe. The occupants may injure their head or ears when the airbags deploy and glass breaks leading to concussions or traumatic brain injuries. They may be seriously hit and their neck, back, rib, shoulder, arm, hip or leg can be injured. The passengers on the side of the car which is impacted can suffer neck, head, chest, abdomen, pelvis and leg injuries. The drivers colliding from the other side are more likely to sustain injuries to their chest and head/neck.
Unfortunately, Spinal injuries are also a common occurrence in broadside accidents. The impact of the crash causes whiplash due to which the discs and nerve roots in the spine get injured leading to chronic pain and long-lasting complications in the future.
Are Concussions Common In Broadside Accidents?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury—or TBI—caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.
A mild concussion typically only causes confusion and the person is unable to think in a clear manner for less than 15 minutes and can be difficult to see symptoms. A moderate concussion brings about a loss of memory, drowsiness along with confusion for more an extended period of time. A severe concussion generally leaves a person unconscious. Usually, upon awakening, the victim cannot remember what happened and may have difficulty moving.
The axons in the brain may swell or stretch due to such traumatic brain injuries. This can destroy their capacity to send or receive signals and communicate with the other parts of the body. If due medical attention is not given it may cause a variety of symptoms like:
- Chronic pain
- Headaches
- Loss of coordination
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Vertigo
- Anxiety
- Epilepsy
- Dizziness
- Eye pain
- Blurred vision
- Comprehension and reading problems
- Memory loss and attention disorders
In order to protect your self and prevent further damage, you must seek medical attention immediately. If prompt treatment isn’t sought you may risk the further danger of complications.
Injured in a Broadside Collision in California?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a broadside collision, make sure your legal rights are protected! Call Krasney Law in California, at (909) 380-7200 for a free and private case evaluation. Don’t wait for getting the legal help you need today.