Being involved in a t-bone accident with a large truck can result in catastrophic injuries. These types of crashes happen when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. When a regular passenger vehicle t-bones a much larger truck, the outcome is often devastating for the smaller vehicle’s occupants.
Determining Fault in Utah T-Bone Truck Crashes
In any motor vehicle accident, establishing fault is crucial for receiving fair compensation. This determines who was negligent and therefore responsible for damages. There are a few ways fault can be determined following a Utah t-bone truck collision:
- Police Investigation – Police will thoroughly analyze the scene, take measurements, collect evidence, and interview witnesses to recreate what happened. They will issue citations if a driver clearly violated traffic laws.
- Truck Driver Logbooks – Commercial truck drivers must carefully log their hours behind the wheel. Violating hour-of-service regulations by driving overly fatigued is negligence.
- Truck Maintenance Records – Trucking companies must diligently maintain their vehicles and repair any defects. Evidence of unfixed mechanical problems can help prove negligence.
- Traffic Camera Footage – Intersection cameras may have captured footage of the collision, providing insight into who entered the intersection improperly.
- Accident Reconstruction Expert – These specialists can analyze physics evidence to determine each vehicle’s speed, angle of impact, and other crash details to conclude who was at fault.
- Eyewitness Statements – Independent third-party witness accounts often carry significant weight in determining fault.
- Cell Phone Records – If distracted driving due to cell phone use was a factor, phone records can provide proof of this negligent behavior.
Filing an Injury Claim After a Utah T-Bone Truck Wreck
If you were injured by a negligent truck driver in a Utah t-bone collision, you have the right to pursue compensation for your damages. This includes medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses. To file an injury claim, you should:
- Seek Medical Care – This is your main concern. Get evaluated and follow all treatment plans. Keep records of all diagnoses, treatment, and expenses.
- Document the Scene – Take videos or photos of skid marks, debris, road conditions, and any other evidence.
- Report the Crash – File a formal report with the police regarding the accident. Provide accurate details.
- Contact an Attorney – An experienced Utah truck accident lawyer can handle your claim so you can focus on recovery. They will investigate fault, negotiate a settlement, and take the case to court if necessary.
- Compile Evidence – Gather police reports, medical records, proof of lost wages, repair estimates, and anything else supporting your claim.
- Calculate Damages – Add up costs related to medical bills, destroyed property, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses. Consider both current and future expected costs.
- Demand Letter – Your attorney can send a letter to the insurance company demanding compensation for your calculated damages.
T-bone truck crashes often have devastating outcomes. But victims have legal rights to pursue compensation. Our attorneys have 32 offices across 19 states, including Utah, Washington, and Georgia. If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident, call now at (888) 477-0597 for your free case review.