Involved In A Broadside Collision?

Have You Been Hit In A Broadside Collision?

If you've been in a broadside collision in Hillsboro, you're likely dealing with pain, confusion, and worry about the future. These accidents can be devastating, and it's important to understand your legal rights. A car accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional trauma of the accident. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Broadside Collision Guide

Broadside Collisions: Why They're Especially Dangerous

A broadside collision, also known as a T-bone accident, occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another vehicle, forming a "T" shape. These accidents are particularly dangerous for several reasons:

• Limited Side Protection: Unlike the front and back of a vehicle, which have crumple zones and other safety features, the sides have much thinner bodywork and fewer protective elements. This makes occupants on the side that's hit highly vulnerable.
• Direct Impact on Passengers: The force of the impact is often concentrated directly on the area where passengers sit, increasing the risk of severe injury or even being ejected from the vehicle.
• Intersections: A Common Hot Spot: Broadside collisions frequently happen at intersections when drivers run red lights, fail to yield, or misjudge the speed of oncoming traffic. Vehicles traveling at intersection speeds increase the severity of the impact.

Even with newer safety features, broadside collisions are dangerous. Imagine crushing a shoebox. The broadside of the box is just inherently the weakest and easiest to crush. Cars are no different. So if through no fault of your own, you were in a T-bone accident please talk to a car accident lawyer. These are serious injuries that benefit from serious help.

Don't miss a deadline. Don't leave money on the table. Call now to see how we can help.

What to Do After a Broadside Collision in Oregon: Protecting Your Rights and Preserving Evidence

Being involved in a broadside collision is a traumatic experience. It's easy to feel overwhelmed, but knowing what steps to take immediately after the accident is crucial for protecting yourself both physically and legally. Here's your Oregon-specific guide:

1. Safety First, Always

• Assess Injuries: Are you or your passengers hurt? Even seemingly minor injuries can turn serious, so prioritize your health.
• Move if Safe: If you can safely move your vehicle out of the way of oncoming traffic, do so. But if it's unsafe, stay put and turn on your hazard lights. If safe, you can take pictures of the accident before moving the vehicles to preserve evidence.
• Call 911: Even if injuries are "minor" this is an important step. This gets medical attention on the way and generates a police report, an essential piece of evidence.

2. Information Exchange: Oregon Requirements

• Oregon law mandates that you provide: Your name, address, driver's license info, vehicle registration, and insurance information.
• Get the Same From the Other Driver(s): This includes the basics above and, if possible, their vehicle's make, model, and license plate number.
• Witnesses are Valuable: If there are people who saw the accident, get their names and contact information. Witness testimony can be crucial.
• Don't Admit Fault: Stick to exchanging information. Let the police and insurance companies sort out who was at fault.

3. Document Everything While It's Fresh

The details of the accident matter! Your memory can fade, so use your phone to:

• Photograph the Scene: Damage to your car and the other vehicles, where they ended up, skid marks, traffic signs – anything that might help show what happened.
• Note Surroundings: Was the weather clear or raining? Was it daylight or dark? These details can play a role in the investigation.
• Jot Down What Happened: While it's fresh in your mind, write a short description of the accident. How it happened, the direction you were going, etc.

4. Medical Attention ASAP

• Go to the Doctor: Even if you feel okay, adrenaline can mask injuries. Get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible.
• Follow Treatment Plans: If the doctor recommends treatment, follow it to the letter. This demonstrates you're taking your injuries seriously.
• Document Costs: Keep records of every medical bill, prescription cost, and even mileage driving to appointments.

5. Oregon Law: Insurance Reporting Deadlines

• You Must Report the Accident if:
  • There are injuries or deaths
  • Property damage to any one vehicle exceeds $2,500
• Report to the DMV: Use the Oregon Traffic Accident and Insurance Report form (available online) within 72 hours if the above conditions apply.

6. A Personal Injury Lawyer is Your Ally

• Broadside Accidents are Complex: Determining fault and navigating the world of insurance can be a nightmare. Don't face this alone.
• A Lawyer Knows What Evidence Matters: They'll build the strongest case possible, gathering police reports, medical records, and everything needed to support your claim.
• Focus on Your Recovery: With a lawyer handling the legal fight, you can focus on getting back on your feet.

We're Here to Help. Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation.

Why an Attorney Can Be Invaluable After a Broadside Collision

The aftermath of a broadside collision can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, insurance claims, and lost wages. An attorney can handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery. Here's what a personal injury lawyer can do for you:

• Investigate the Cause of the Accident: Our lawyers will work to determine who was at fault for the collision, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage.
• Fight for Maximum Compensation: Our attorneys understand how to calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potential future medical needs. We negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
• Handle Complexities of the Legal Process: Personal injury law can be intricate. One of our attorneys will handle all legal matters on your behalf, protecting your rights and ensuring a smooth legal process.

Understanding Broadside Collision Injuries

Broadside collisions range in severity, with injuries reflecting that variation. While some accidents may result in minor injuries or none at all, others can have devastating consequences. Here's what you need to know:

• Common Injury Types:
  • Whiplash and Concussions: Due to the sudden, jarring force of the impact.
  • Broken Bones: Limbs and ribs are particularly vulnerable in side-impact crashes.
  • Head and Back Injuries: These can be life-altering, depending on severity.
  • Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma to the side can damage organs.
  • Sadly, in the worst cases, broadside collisions can result in fatalities.

Children at Increased Risk

Children are especially vulnerable in broadside collisions due to their smaller size and developing bodies. Statistics show:

• Children are present in 25% of broadside accidents.
• Of those accidents, over 33% result in child fatalities, often due to head trauma.

What This Means For You

• Never Delay Medical Attention: Even if you think you're unhurt, get a thorough medical evaluation after a broadside collision. Some injuries may not be immediately obvious, especially internal ones.
• Pay Close Attention to Children: Be extra vigilant about checking on children involved in any type of accident. They may not be able to fully communicate their injuries.

Protecting Yourself on the Road

While we can't eliminate all risks, here are actions to reduce the chance of a dangerous broadside collision:

• Be extra cautious at intersections: Many of these accidents occur here.
• Watch for drivers ignoring traffic rules: If someone looks like they might run a red light, be prepared to defensively react - if safe to do so.

If You've Been Injured, We're Here to Help

When a broadside collision causes harm to you or a loved one, especially a child, it's incredibly traumatic. Let Johnson Law handle the legal battle so you can focus on healing. Our experienced, award-winning attorneys will fight tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Understanding the Dangers: Factors that Contribute to Broadside Collisions

Think you're a safe driver? Think the rules will protect you? Unfortunately, even the most cautious motorists can become victims of broadside collisions. Here's what puts you at risk:

Intersection Nightmares

• Hidden Dangers: "I didn't see them!" is a common excuse after intersection accidents. But consider: was that SUV blocking the other car's view, or did they pull out recklessly? These details matter.
• "Beating the Light" Mentality: Some drivers see a yellow light as a challenge. They speed up, endangering everyone who obeys the rules and enters the intersection on their green.
• When "Normal" Changes: Construction up ahead? Detours marked with flimsy orange cones? Even seasoned drivers can be thrown off, creating a higher risk for accidents.

Road Hazards: It's Not Just About Other Drivers

• Out of Your Control: A tire blowout isn't your fault, but it can send your car swerving sideways, putting other lanes in danger. Bad weather makes everyone less in control.
• When Lanes Aren't Enough: Busy two-lane roads without barriers leave little margin for error. One drowsy driver drifting out of their lane can cause a devastating collision.

The Human Factor: Mistakes and Recklessness

Even the best roads and clearest weather can't prevent these dangerous scenarios:

• "They Looked Far Away" Syndrome: We've all done it... but tragically, some drivers misjudge how fast a vehicle is actually coming, especially in rural areas.
• Right-of-Way? What's That? Stop signs and yield signs aren't suggestions. Drivers who ignore them jeopardize everyone's safety.
• Drowsy is the New Drunk: Falling asleep at the wheel, even for a few seconds, is like driving with your eyes closed. The results can be just as deadly.

How to Stay a Bit Safer

• Assume the Worst: Hope other drivers will do the right thing, but be prepared if they don't. This mindset could save your life.
• When Nature Strikes Back: Slow down in rain or snow, and even more so if visibility is really poor. Don't be afraid to pull over if conditions are truly unsafe.
• Don't Become the Hazard: Check your turn signals, keep your headlights on at dusk, and for goodness sake, put the phone away while driving!

We Stand With You

If another driver's negligence turns your life upside down, you don't have to bear the burden alone. At Johnson Law, we've seen the devastation these accidents cause. We'll hold the responsible parties accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation. Let's start getting you the justice you deserve.