Side-Impact (T-Bone) Collision Settlement Amounts

Side-impact collisions, also known as T-bone or broadside collisions, are the second deadliest type of car accident after head-on collisions. The side of a vehicle provides significantly less protection than the front or rear, making occupants on the impact side particularly vulnerable to serious injuries.

Average Settlement Amounts

Minor injuries from side-impact collisions settle for $15,000 to $50,000. Moderate injuries including fractures settle for $50,000 to $200,000. Serious injuries requiring surgery settle for $150,000 to $500,000. Catastrophic injuries settle for $500,000 to $3,000,000 or more.

Why Side-Impact Settlements Are High

The side of a vehicle has minimal crumple zone compared to the front and rear. Even with side-impact airbags, the distance between the occupant and the point of impact is much smaller. This means that side-impact collisions at moderate speeds can cause injuries comparable to high-speed frontal collisions.

Common Injuries

Injuries specific to side-impact collisions include broken ribs and pelvic fractures on the impact side, hip injuries from the door being pushed inward, head injuries from contact with the side window or B-pillar, arm and shoulder injuries from the intruding door, and spleen or liver damage from blunt force to the torso.

Fault Determination

Side-impact collisions most commonly occur at intersections. The driver who failed to yield the right of way, ran a red light, or ran a stop sign is typically at fault. Traffic camera footage and witness testimony are crucial evidence in establishing fault.

Conclusion

Side-impact collision settlements range from $15,000 to $3,000,000 or more. The key factors are the speed of impact, the severity of injuries, and whether the vehicle had side-impact airbags.

Use our free settlement calculator to estimate what your T-bone collision case might be worth.