Jacksonville T-Bone Collision Attorney

Fighting for Victims of Side-Impact Car Accidents

T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, are among the most dangerous types of crashes. When the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another, drivers and passengers have little protection, making serious injuries likely. These accidents often happen at intersections and can leave victims facing long recoveries, mounting medical bills, and lasting trauma.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a T-bone accident, you may be entitled to compensation. At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we have over 150 years of combined experience, two Florida Bar Board Certified Civil Trial Specialists (Tom Edwards and Eric Ragatz), and a history of recovering millions of dollars for injury victims. We know how to investigate these complex cases, prove fault, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

If you need help after a T-bone accident anywhere in Duval County or beyond, call (904) 295-1050 for a free consultation.

What Is a T-Bone Collision?

A T-bone collision occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a “T” shape at impact. These crashes most commonly happen at intersections when a driver runs a red light, fails to yield, or ignores traffic signals.

T-bone collisions are particularly dangerous due to the lack of structural protection on the sides of vehicles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), T-bone collisions:

• Cause approximately 8,000 fatalities annually in the United States.
• Represent a smaller percentage of total crashes but account for a disproportionate number of fatal accidents.
• Typically occur at intersections, making them a primary danger for urban and suburban roadways.
• Pose risks for serious injuries, including brain injuries, spinal cord damage, internal bleeding, and broken bones due to the direct impact on the side of the vehicle.

Given the risks and potential for substantial damages, T-bone accidents demand a thorough investigation to determine fault and secure fair compensation for victims.

Common Causes of T-Bone Accidents

As with other types of car accidents, most T-bone collisions happen due to driver negligence. Common causes include:

• Running red lights or stop signs – A driver who fails to stop at an intersection can crash into another vehicle with full force.
• Failure to yield – When a driver makes an unsafe left turn or merges into an intersection without the right of way.
• Distracted driving – Drivers texting, adjusting GPS, or looking away from the road may not see a stop sign or oncoming traffic.
• Speeding – Excessive speed reduces reaction time, making it harder to stop before an intersection.
• Driving under the influence – Drunk or impaired drivers may misjudge traffic signals or fail to notice crossing vehicles.
• Poor visibility – Limited sight lines due to buildings, parked cars, or weather conditions can lead to side-impact crashes.
• Brake failures or mechanical defects – When a car’s brakes or safety system fails, the driver may be unable to stop before hitting another vehicle.

Who Is at Fault in a T-Bone Accident?

Determining fault in a T-bone collision can be complex. Liability often depends on who had the right of way at the time of the crash.

• The driver who ran a red light or stop sign is typically at fault.
• Left-turning drivers may be at fault if they turned into oncoming traffic without yielding.
• Multiple drivers may share fault if they contributed to the accident, such as one driver blocking visibility while another fails to yield.

Evidence that can help prove fault includes:

• Traffic camera footage – Video from nearby intersections can show which driver had the right of way.
• Eyewitness testimony – Witnesses can confirm who ran a red light or failed to yield.
• Black box data – Some vehicles record speed, braking, and acceleration data that can help establish what happened before impact.
• Skid marks and crash analysis – Investigators can reconstruct the accident using evidence from the scene.

At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we thoroughly investigate every case to gather evidence, determine liability, and build a strong claim for compensation. As a firm that focuses exclusively on litigating personal injury cases, we also have access to expert witnesses, technology, and other resources that aid us in constructing complete and compelling claims. 

What Compensation Can You Recover After a T-Bone Accident?

Victims of T-bone accidents may be entitled to substantial compensation for their losses, including:

• Medical expenses – Hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care.
• Lost wages – Compensation for time off work and reduced earning capacity if injuries prevent you from returning to your job.
• Pain and suffering – Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
• Property damage – Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle.
• Loss of enjoyment of life – Compensation for the impact of injuries on daily activities and hobbies.
• Wrongful death damages – Funeral costs, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering for surviving family members.

Insurance companies often try to downplay the severity of injuries or offer low settlements. Our attorneys negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

How Our Jacksonville T-Bone Accident Lawyers Can Help

At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we have the experience and resources needed to handle complex T-bone accident cases. We provide:

• Comprehensive accident investigation – Gathering police reports, witness statements, and crash data.
• Negotiation with insurance companies – We fight for a fair settlement and refuse lowball offers.
• Litigation and trial representation – If insurers refuse to pay, we are prepared to take your case to court.
• Personalized legal guidance – We keep you informed every step of the way and handle all legal complexities on your behalf.

Call for a Free Consultation: (904) 295-1050

T-bone accidents can leave victims with life-changing injuries and financial stress. If you or someone you love were injured in a wreck, our award-winning attorneys at Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. can help. We proudly serve clients across Jacksonville and beyond. 

Call (904) 295-1050 or contact us online for a free consultation. We work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing unless we win.