T-Bone Car Accidents

Huntsville T-Bone Car Accidents Lawyers

Aggressive legal representation when you’re injured in a T-bone accident in Alabama

T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact or broadside crashes, are some of the most dangerous and deadly types of car accidents. They often happen in an instant, with one driver slamming directly into the side of another vehicle, forming the shape of a “T.” These crashes are especially dangerous for the person sitting on the side that’s hit, where there’s very little protection from the impact.

At Martin & Helms, we’ve seen firsthand how serious these accidents can be. If you or someone you love was hurt in a T-bone crash in Huntsville or anywhere in North Alabama, you may be facing pain, stress, medical bills, and more questions than answers. Our team is here to help you get the compensation you deserve and hold the at-fault party accountable.

How can we help? We can help you by answering the following questions:

 

What is a T-bone accident?

A T-bone car accident occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. These wrecks usually happen at intersections, especially when a driver runs a red light or fails to yield. The angle and speed of impact can result in serious injuries or even fatalities, particularly when a larger vehicle strikes a smaller one.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that side-impact collisions accounted for 22% of passenger vehicle occupant deaths in 2023. Unlike front or rear-end collisions, the sides of cars have less space to absorb the impact, even with side airbags.

What are some common causes of T-bone car accidents in Huntsville?

T-bone crashes can happen for a variety of reasons, but most of them come down to driver error. Some of the most common causes include:

  • A driver ignores traffic signals. A car that runs a red light can easily strike another vehicle that is lawfully entering the intersection.
  • Failing to yield the right of way often happens at intersections with flashing lights, uncontrolled intersections, or during left-hand turns. Drivers must yield to others who have the right of way, but many don't.
  • Texting, using a GPS, eating, or adjusting the radio can all take a driver’s attention off the road long enough to miss a traffic signal or another car.
  • Speeding through intersections or trying to “beat the light” can make it impossible to avoid a crash. The faster and stronger the impact, the more severe the injuries.
  • Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the risk of running red lights or failing to yield.
  • Rain, fog, or icy roads can cause vehicles to skid through intersections, even if the driver is trying to stop.

What are some common injuries from Huntsville T-bone car accidents?

Because the side of a vehicle offers less protection, injuries from T-bone crashes can be especially serious. Common injuries include:

  • Head and brain injuries
  • Neck and back injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Internal bleeding and organ damage
  • Lacerations and contusions
  • Paralysis or long-term disability

In the worst cases, these injuries can be fatal. If you’ve lost a loved one in a T-bone crash, our Huntsville wrongful death lawyers can help you explore your legal options.

Who is at fault in a T-bone car accident?

Determining who’s responsible in a T-bone accident isn’t always simple. It often comes down to who had the right of way and whether any traffic laws were broken.

In many cases, the driver who struck the side of another car is at fault. But not always. If the driver who was hit failed to yield or entered the intersection illegally, they could share some of the blame. Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule, which means that if a victim is partly at fault, they may not be able to recover damages. That’s why it’s so important to work with an experienced car accident attorney who can help prove the other driver’s full responsibility.

What types of evidence do your Huntsville attorneys use to prove liability?

At Martin & Helms, we don’t just rely on police reports. We perform a thorough investigation to build a strong case for our clients. Here are some of the types of evidence we use to prove who was at fault in a T-bone accident:

  • Some intersections in Huntsville could have red light cameras or surveillance footage that can show exactly what happened during the crash. We also look for dashcam footage from nearby vehicles.
  • Witnesses can confirm whether someone ran a red light, failed to stop, or drove recklessly. Their testimony can be powerful in proving liability.
  • Photos of skid marks, vehicle positions, debris, and traffic signals help us reconstruct the crash.
  • Many modern vehicles, including commercial trucks, have event data recorders (EDRs) that log speed, braking, and steering at the time of the accident.
  • The location and extent of damage on each vehicle can help show how the impact occurred and at what angle.
  • Medical documentation connects your injuries to the crash and supports your claim for damages.

We also work with accident reconstruction experts and medical professionals to support your case in negotiations or court.

What legal options do I have after a Huntsville T-bone car accident?

If you’ve been injured in a T-bone crash, you may be able to file a personal injury claim to recover damages. Here’s what that process looks like.

Your first step should be to speak with an experienced car accident attorney, especially in a contributory negligence state like Alabama.

We can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult experts to determine fault and build your case. Our attorneys can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, we can take your case to court.

You may be eligible for damages such as:

  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Property damage
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Punitive damages (in cases of intentional misconduct, malice, or a wanton disregard)

While most cases settle out of court, we are fully prepared to go to trial if that’s what it takes to get justice for our clients.

What should I do after a T-bone crash in Huntsville?

If you’ve been in a T-bone accident, here are some steps to take right away:

  • Call 911. Always report the accident and request medical help.
  • Get medical treatment. Even if you feel okay, injuries like whiplash or brain trauma may not show up immediately.
  • Take photos. Document the scene, damage, and any visible injuries.
  • Get witness contact information. Their testimony may be crucial later.
  • Avoid speaking with the other driver’s insurance company. They may try to downplay your injuries or blame you for the accident.

Then, call Martin & Helms. We’re ready to handle the legal side so you can focus on healing.

Why choose our Huntsville T-bone car accident lawyers?

At Martin & Helms, we’ve helped hundreds of injury victims in Huntsville and across North Alabama. We understand how devastating a car crash can be, and we’re here to fight for what’s fair. Here’s why our clients trust us:

  • Experienced trial attorneys who understand Alabama’s unique legal system
  • Aggressive representation against insurance companies
  • Personal attention from attorneys who care about your case
  • No fees unless we win; you don’t pay unless we recover compensation

You don’t have to go through this alone. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Do you have a T-bone car accident lawyer near me?

Martin & Helms serves clients from its two Alabama offices. Our Huntsville office is located at 2317 Market Place SW, Suite A, Huntsville, AL 35801. If you are too injured to come to us, we can make other arrangements. We’re here to help.

Skilled T-bone car accident attorneys serving clients in Huntsville

A T-bone accident can turn your life upside down in seconds. Whether you’re facing medical bills, time off work, or long-term recovery, you deserve justice. At Martin & Helms, we’re ready to stand up for your rights and fight for every dollar you’re owed. Call our offices or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case. We proudly serve clients in Huntsville, Decatur, Madison, and throughout North Alabama.